Our Jewish High Holy Days begin this evening, and it opens up a 10 day period of contemplation, as we choose to be accountable for how we live, individually and in community, and to commit to personal growth in the year ahead.

Its ideas are universal, and I find that it is important for us to be reminded as well of the strength each of us carries. With that in mind, I’d like to share a poem by Rabbi Avraham Yitzchak Kook. It was recorded by the Canada’s Reform Jewish cantors (including our own Cantor Len Udow) during the pandemic (check out the YouTube link below). It was and is a message of hope, and a reminder that it all starts with us.

Kanfeh Ruach (Wings of Spirit)

Rise up

You have great power

You have wings of spirit

Wings of eagles

Wings of Spirit

Human being

Rise up, rise up

Because you have great strength

Powerful eagle’s wings

Don’t deny them

Lest they dent you

Seek them out

And they will quickly find you

Wings of spirit