On Shavuot, as we celebrate our nations’ acceptance of the Torah once again, one may wonder why this Holiday is necessary to begin with: Have we not already received the Torah? Why do we recall Matan Torah again year after year? Through working with individuals in addiction recovery, we have gained a new understanding of the value of ongoing re-dedication, and to what it looks like to authentically live and breathe one’s set of core spiritual principles. Here are 3 lessons that we have gleaned from working with those in treatment/recovery that can be carried into this Holiday.

Suggested Readings

Braided: A Journey of a Thousand Challahs

A journey of a thousand challahs and one woman’s quest for wellness and peace. Learn how the act of making Challah could heal heartache, emptiness, and being overwhelmed.

Suggested Readings

Beyond the Palace Walls: Reflections on Mental Health for Purim

By Lisa Ziv | Let us shift our mindset to develop a more supportive community for those fighting their internal battles with Haman. Let us work to understand invisible illnesses and pathways to recovery. Let us be aware of the signs and the things to look for in ourselves and others, so we can get or provide support. And, let us change our thoughts and behaviors so taking responsibility for our mental health is equally important to taking care of our heart, our vision or any other physical health issue. Most of all, we need to understand that mental health challenges can happen to anyone in any family at any time.