I have learned much in my time
blessed with intellectual curiosity
an inherent thirst for knowledge
and an overactive brain.

I have learned how to grieve
for my father and mother
for what might have been
for roads not taken.

I have learned
how to unlearn
distrust/fear/trauma
triggers/rage/flashbacks.

I continue to learn to be a Jew
through study and prayer
with love for ritual
and richness.

I have not needed to learn
about God in my life
God is about love
faith and trust.

I’ve decided to participate for the first time in #blogElul, which I have followed for a few years. I’ve never had the courage to get my feet wet – this year, I’m jumping into the deep end of the pool! Check out some of the amazing  themed posts geared around the work and joy of Elul – of introspection and reflection in the days leading to the High Holy Days (Organized by Ima Bima.) You can read last year’s and this year’s #blogElul posts via the Elul tag.