Dear Families,
This morning I was looking for a particular book — yes, I do that often and it always surprises me that my books are not better organized.
However, that does lead to finding something you haven’t looked at in a while. I highly suggest going through your bookshelf (or someone else’s — which I admit to doing when I visit) and reading something that beckons to you.
I came across God’s To-Do List: 103 Ways to Be an Angel and Do God’s Work on Earth by Dr. Ron Wolfson. There are 10 chapters and rather than share just one, here are ideas from each of them — try them and make your own list:
Create: Use your God-given gift of creativity — paint, draw, sculpt, photograph, compose, dance, write, cook, bake.
Bless: Bless your home. Make it a sanctuary, a safe place, a retreat.
Rest: Take a nap in the middle of the day on your day of rest.
Call: Practice hearing. Listen to a loved one or a colleague speak, and don’t interrupt.
Comfort: Put a “Welcome” sign at the entrance to your home.
Care: Perform a random act of kindness — on purpose.
Repair: Be a giraffe — stick your neck out. Be a hero — find a new way to serve others in need.
Wrestle: Practice the art of compromise.
Give: What is your passion? What are you good at? Use your talents to serve others.
Forgive: Forgive your politicians for their mistakes.
These are just 10 of Wolfson’s suggestions. (I couldn’t resist the one from the “forgive chapter.”) Make your own list as you think of the categories. We are partners with God and must do our part in making the world a better place. Small ways and big ways — all count. Start now!
Shalom…from the Shabbat Lady.
Laura Seymour is director of Camping Services at the Aaron Family Jewish Community Center.