Shabbat ends each week when three stars appear in the sky on Saturday evening, but we are still permitted to say “ shavuah tov” or perform the havdalah ritual as late as sunset on Tuesday. Our tradition understands that during some weeks we might feel a hasty enthusiasm for the start of a fresh week and during others we might need a bit more time to jump into action with renewed energy.
In Pirkei Avot, Rabbi Tarfon teaches us: “The day is short, the work formidable, the workers not always active, but the wages plentiful, and the Boss ever-insistent!” (Pirkei Avot 2:16). Rabbi Tarfon understands that each of us has a normal balance of apathy and inertia. During our most energized days, we remember that life is short and we pursue our purpose. On those days, we must ask ourselves “If not now, when?” and commit to the sacred work of repairing the fragile, broken corners of our world however we can.
And of course, we can and should have compassion for ourselves and others on days when we feel less connected, less motivated, maybe even lost. Perhaps we can even ask how we might best support a child, partner, or colleague on a day when they need a boost of enthusiasm or just some time and space to catch up.
On this Monday, I wish you a shavuah tov —a week of goodness, sweetness, and renewed enthusiasm and purpose, with an extra dose of love and tenderness if your own kickstart needs an extra cup of coffee or just a bit more time.
— Cantor Emma Lutz