What a time of year to have the privilege of living in California—a handful of gentle rainy days followed by the sweet smells of flowers blooming, grass growing, and fresh winds blowing. Indeed, we are lucky to live in a climate not dissimilar from that of the Holy Land—a place with dry months, relatively light winters, and the absolute sweetest spring seasons. It is no surprise that the great sages of ancient Israel—and those yearning to find a connection with Israel in every corner of the world—chased after God’s presence in every corner of the natural world.
Reb Nachman of Breslov (b. 1772 in Poland), the great-grandson of the Ba’al Shem Tov, wrote earnestly on his seeking (and finding) God in his natural surroundings:
How wonderful it would be if one could only be worthy of hearing the song of the grass! Each blade of grass sings out to God without any ulterior motive and without expecting any reward. It is most wonderful to hear its song and worship God in its midst. The best place to meditate is in a field where things grow. There one can truly express their thoughts to God … Another meaningful place to meditate is in the meadows outside the city. One should meditate in a grassy field, for grass will awaken the heart.
May each of us make time to meditate, to connect with God and ourselves, to find inspiration for personal growth, and to enjoy the busting out of spring in the days to come.
Shavuah tov—to a beautiful week ahead.
— Senior Cantor Emma Lutz