Today is Friday. Around here we like to call it Erev Shabbos, the Eve of Shabbos.
The magic of Shabbos is as deep as the ocean and as simple as a bumper sticker. You know that one the one that says “We are not physical beings have a spiritual experience, we are spiritual beings having a physical experience.” That one.
We know it – but it’s so hard to access. Our whole week is full of physical pursuits.
Enter Shabbos. Imagine putting it all way. No phone, no computer, no cooking, no laundry, no radio, no TV, no cars, no bikes, no mortgages or bills and no going to the office.
And then sitting at your table all dressed up – or at a friend’s home and enjoying a candlelit dinner with endless hours to read and sing and talk. Taking the time to learn ancient wisdom, taking walks with the kids and relaxing.
And then waking up on Shabbos day and doing it all over again.
It’s just the greatest gift in the world.
This video is a song we often sing when we get into our English repertoire (as opposed to traditional Hebrew Shabbos Songs- you can hear one here). It’s an oldie – early 80’s I think, but it gets me every time.
We sing it and I feel a bubble of happiness welling up inside of me.
Wherever you are, whoever you are, may you end the week with serenity. And even if you’re not Jewish, give yourself a well deserved break from technology. Visit your quiet place inside of yourself and be Queen or King for a day.
And if you are Jewish, go to Shabbat.com and join someone this Shabbos. Don’t let even more one more pass you by.
Love, Rivka Malka
