Grant me the ability to be alone; may it be my custom to go outdoors each day among the trees and grass, among all growing things. There may I be alone and enter into prayer to talk with the One to whom I belong. May I express there everything in my heart, and may all the foliage of the field – all grasses, trees, and plants – awake at my coming, to send the powers of their life into the words of my prayer so that my prayer and speech are made whole through the life and spirit of all growing things, which are made as one by their transcendent Source. May I then pour out the words of my heart before Your Presence like water, God, and lift up my hands to You in worship, on my behalf, and that of my children.
— Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, late 18th century Hasidic rabbi
Rabbi Nachman beautifully expresses the connection between God, nature, and self. Sitting outside in our yard and enjoying the blooming of the spring roses (and seeing my baby daughter enjoy all of the vibrant colors and light for the first time) has brought me the most peace during these weeks at home. Safely enjoying the outdoors provides us an opportunity to breathe more deeply, to take a break from the bustle of our busy homes, and to enjoy God’s creation and our place in it.
Jewish composer Debbie Friedman beautifully captures Rabbi Nachman’s words and sets them to music in this composition —I hope it will bring you a few minutes of peace, comfort and reflection.
Listen to “You Are the One” from Debbie Friedman’s Renewal of Spirit
— Cantor Emma Lutz