July 4th Rage and Righteousness

Dear Friends,

There have been years I have put up an American flag on July 4th. I have raised the flag to celebrate all that I love about this country and call forth all I long it to be. And I have raised the flag in protest, as a way to say that the laws and actions of the government do not represent my values and ideals and this is my country, too.

I did not put up the flag this year. When I look at it all I can see is the continued assault on our rights, dignity and democracy.
 
I don’t know what to do with the anguish, anger and despair I feel about all that is going on in our country. It is difficult for me to even have a conversation about it without getting caught in a raging tirade that fuels a self-righteous hatred that leaves me feeling sickened and in deeper despair

This week’s Torah portion, Korach, talks about rebellion and leadership, asking us to be aware of the intentions behind our words and actions.

It cautions us about self-righteousness and the hatred, division and damage it can cause.

The portion doesn’t provide answers for what to do about the injustices that tear at our souls, but it does remind us that we won’t figure it out alone.

         Seek guidance and support from each other, it urges.
         Ask for help from the Source of Life that flows through all.
         Listen and follow the truths the earth is telling.
         Commit to practices that help you see beyond righteousness and rage to discover how to best engage in effective action and speech.

On this 4th of July, 2024, I pray in the words of the Children of Korach who learned humility and harmony from deep within the earth:

         May love and truth meet.
         May peace and justice embrace.
         May truth sprout from the earth,
         And may justice be seen from the heavens.
Psalm 85:11-12

Please show us the way to help make this so.

Love and Blessings to all,
Shalom,
Rabbi Yael

This Week's Teachings
Parshat Korach: Rebellion and connection. Learning from the wisdom of earth. Listen to the recording of this week's Torah Study. For our meditation, we sit together with prayers for peace and healing. Listen to the recording of today's Morning Meditation Sit.