4 Weeks of Elul - 5764
 Week Four: Physical Selves

Olympic marathon runners, I am told, sometimes push themselves to a point where they lose touch with their bodies. The last mile of a grueling race takes on an almost ethereal tone where runners relate a feeling of elation and exuberance that allows them to exert energy that should be, by all accounts, depleted. We have arrived at the last week of Elul. For many of us, the process of preparing for the Yamim Noraim the High Holy Days – has been a little bit like a marathon. The process of Teshuvah is not always easy. It can be a daunting task to review past successes and failures and truly engage in Cheshbon Ha-Nefesh – and accounting of our souls. During the past 3 weeks we have focused on our spiritual selves, our relationships, and our responsibility to community. This week, as we look ahead to the "finish line," I'm going to ask us to focus on our physical selves. Unlike marathon runners, I want us to be very much aware of our physical selves. If we do not take care of our bodies, then we cannot perform Tikkun Olam - the repairing of our world. Our bodies are holy. The torah teaches that we are created B'tzelem Elohim - in the image of God. In this light, taking care of our bodies is a sacred task.

  1. Have I taken care of my body through diet and exercise?
  2. Am I aware of the physical needs of the important people in my life? Am I honoring those needs?
  3. Am I taking time to relax, to enjoy life?
  4. Have I truly appreciated the beauty of the mountains that surround me?
  5. How much stress is in my life? Is it affecting the way I live my life?
  6. What bad habits have I cultivated that I need to change?
  7. What positive habits should I trying to incorporate into my daily routine?

Again, these questions are in no way complete. I'm sure that you have many others that can be asked and answered. I want to hear from you regarding these messages. I welcome your comments and suggestions. I can be reached by phone (883-1818) or e-mail (Rabbi_at_ca). These questions will also be available in hard copy at the Temple Office. If you know of anyone else who might want to receive these messages, contact our list administrator, .

L'shanah Tovah U'metukah – May you have a good and sweet new year,

Rabbi Joseph R. Black
Email: Rabbi_at_ca

It is customary to listen to the sound of the Shofar during the month of Elul. We recently came across this website and thought you might like to have it for your own preparation for the Yamim Noraim:

http://www.ujc.org/flashplayer.html?id=143

Messages From the Rabbi