Listen and Love

On the eve of their departure from mitzrayim,
Our ancestors were told to put blood on their doorposts for protection.
 
As we traverse the narrow and challenging times of today
It’s helpful to remember the words we place upon our doors:
 
In the mezuzah it says:
 
Shema Veahafta—Listen and Love
Listen as you wrestle with life.
            Listen as you feel into your relationship with all being.
            Listen into the oneness of all that is.

And love.

Love with all you heart, all your soul and all your strength.
Place love upon your hearts.
Teach love to your children.
Speak from love in your home and as you walk on your way.
Take love with you as you lie down and as you rise up.
Carry love in your hands,
Place love before your eyes,
Inscribe love upon your gates.
 
Listen and Love.
May these words guide and guard us each and every day.
 
Blessings to all.
Shalom,

—Rabbi Yael Levy

4 Shevat 5780