Shalom/ שלום

As I was preparing for the Holy Days, an image of Lovey Howell from Gilligan’s Island came to mind asking:  “Thurston, what does one wear to a rescue?”

During the Holy Days we usually wear something a little different, a little nicer than usual.   There are two reasons.  One is external.  We are going out, seeing people, being social.  There’s a motivation to put on a nicer tie, a stylish hat, etc.  And there‘s always a balance - because we want to look nice, but we don‘t want to be showy.

The second reason to dress up is internal.  We want to do something for ourselves - do something a little extra special to mark renewal.

This year, dressing up is tough.  The external reason is diminished.  There’s just less emphasis on looking nice when we are staying home (even if we are being seen via zoom or a similar platform).  

But the internal reason still exists -perhaps even more this year than ever before.  It’s important to make time to renew ourselves.  And sometimes, when we deeply consider what we wear, it extends to think more deeply about who we are.  

And yes, there are always people who dress beautifully who are vapid or just not nice. 

Look, I’m the first to admit....  From the waist down, I am often in jeans or shorts during a zoom session when I would normally be in more formal slacks or chinos.  But that will change for the Holy Days.  And it’s not just because I am leading the services.  

It will change because the Holy Days are a time of change.  And I ask you all to think deeply about the same.

What will you wear, from head to toe, on the outside that will help usher in the New Year?

How will the setting you are in be conducive to spiritual space? (Will you be praying next to a pile of unwashed dishes?)

And ...  What will you consider, on the inside, that will open your souls?

Wishing you all a year of health, goodness, and Shalom!

Rabbi Zach Shapiro