Four Weeks of Elul 5768
Week Four: Physical Selves

September 19, 2008

The past few weeks have been very difficult for many of us at Congregation Albert. We have had to say farewell to dear friends who have succumbed to illness and age. I have had to officiate at too many funerals this month.

The High Holidays are filled with messages about our mortality. The Unetaneh Tokef prayer, with its refrain of "who shall live and who shall die" is a stark reminder of the fragility of life. We know that many things are out of our control. But we also know that our bodies are sacred and that we need to take care of them as best we can. Proper diet, exercise and controlling stress are essential to a healthy life-style.

All too often, however, we fail to take care of ourselves. I know that I often go through cycles of fitness and laziness. One month's motivation is replaced by next month's lack of drive. This can often result in a self-fulfilling prophecy of slovenliness.

Truth be told, our failures in the past should not be seen as an excuse for not trying to improve ourselves in the present. It is never too late to start healthy habits. During the past 3 weeks we have focused on our spiritual selves, our relationships, and our responsibility to community. This week, 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. We also are taught that helping others find health and wellness is a vitally important mitzvah. The simple act of visiting someone who is ill can make a huge difference in their physical and mental well-being.

As such - I offer the following questions:

1. Have I taken care of my body through diet and exercise?
2. Have I prepared medical directives that are clear and unambiguous stating my desires for illness and end-of-life issues?
3. Have I done all that I could to comfort those around me who are affected by illness - have I performed the mitzvah of Bikkur Cholim - visiting the sick?
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 (). 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 lists, contact our list administrator, .

I look forward to seeing you at Selichot services at Congregation Albert this Saturday night as well as at High Holy Day services next week.

Sue, Elana and Ethan join me in wishing you L'shanah Tovah Tikateyvu - May you be inscribed for blessing in the New Year.

B'shalom,