Cheshvan 5783 (October 2023)
Chodesh Tov! Happy Cheshvan!
As the leaves begin to fall and the brisk autumn air sets in, we find ourselves transitioning from the high energy and introspection of Tishrei into the quieter month of Cheshvan. While it isn't nearly as packed with holidays and celebrations, Cheshvan brings its own unique charm, offering us a moment to reflect on the ordinary days that make up our lives.
I was off from school during the first half of Tishrei, which gave me time to observe the holidays with family, friends, and students at WCU Hillel. Highlights from my Haggim included attending services at Kol Tzedek with my sibling, apple picking with my parents, building a Sukkah on WCU campus, and reorganizing all my clothes.
I also started a new series on my TikTok and Instagram called "Fishing for Torah" where share a short drash or piece of wisdom inspired by the Parsha HaShavuah, generally on Fridays before Shabbat. Follow @Gayyfilte.Fish on Instagram or TikTok to watch those!
In this month's email, you'll find thought-provoking prompts to ponder, creative ways to express your thoughts, and a glimpse into some of my engaging content from the past month. Let's embrace the ordinary moments of Cheshvan and find the beauty in the everyday.
Cheshvan Prompt
Cheshvan is sometimes mistakenly taught as the only month in the Hebrew calendar that doesn't have holidays. However, this month does contain the holiday Sigd. Sigd is a unique holiday that holds profound meaning for Ethiopian Jewish communities. Sigd holds deep significance as a day of accepting the Torah and yearning for spiritual homeland, Israel, and the rebuilt Temple. This holiday is also associated with the belief that it marks the date when G!d first revealed G!dself to Moses on Mount Sinai.
Consider a time in your life when you felt a strong yearning for something deeply meaningful, perhaps a sense of spiritual or personal "home." What did this longing feel like, and what steps did you take to pursue or fulfill it?
Reflect on the concept of accepting something sacred in your own life—whether it's a set of beliefs, a commitment, or a personal journey. How did this acceptance shape your path and sense of purpose?