Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Happy New Year


A Peruvian shaman, when he first saw the Washington Monument said, "Oh. That's for the star people." I agree completely!

Happy Rosh HaShana, y'all. Today is the launch, the fanfare (literally) that takes Jews into the High Holy Days, our new year's observance. I love the HHD; it's my favorite Jewish holiday. During the HHD, we're supposed to be introspective; I am so at home at this time. We reflect on the year just past, make amends when possible, seek forgiveness, grant forgiveness, and - well - wash the slate clean, as much as we can. On Yom Kippur we set things straight with God by facing God directly. It's a formidable set of circumstances that surround Yom Kippur, the fasting, the singing followed by more singing and praying all day long, etc. Whew!

Yep, the HHD is not a holiday for sissies! Observing Yom Kippur builds character. I love it!

There have been years when I had to make so many apologies. Talk about building character! Sheesh. Other times I've used the holiday as a motivation to let go of old hurts, grudges and such, to release and forgive as much as possible. Who knows what it'll be like this year? I've had a really big year in terms of change. A LOT has happened, whoa. Time is my luxury, so a nice long holiday provides a spaciousness I'll need to process everything that has transpired.

The meeting with the shaman was great. Below is a photo of her arms. It was fantastic to chat with a kindred soul, a great way to kick off the Days of Awe.

I'm sorry, forgive me, I love you, thank you. Amen and Shalom!

16 comments:

Rosaria Williams said...

How perceptive and kind of you to photograph and share her arms. I would never have thought about that.
Glad you enjoyed the visit.
Glad to know more about the Jewish H. H.D.

Unknown said...

Happy Rosh Hashanah! Hope you find many blessings in the new year.

Angela said...

Good arms, you can tell. I read all about shamanism last night, it seems a lonely state of being. I wish you happiness and laughter, though, Reya, and I`m sure you will always find the right kind of company (with nice arms). Happy holiday!

Reya Mellicker said...

It is kind of a lonely path, Angela. Interesting. We commune a lot with the earth, animals, plants, weather, etc. so we don't feel lonely, mostly.

Thanks John.

And yeah. Good arms, definitely really good. She was great. Excellent way to start the HHD, to meet with one of my people. Oh yeah.

Barbara said...

From one of "your other people" -- Shana tovah! I hope it's a sweet year for you.

Reya Mellicker said...

You too Barbara!

lacochran's evil twin said...

L'shana tova, Reya! And I like your new header photo!

jeanette from everton terrace said...

I am not Jewish but have always felt connected to Rosh Hashanah because it has, on occasion, fallen on my birthday. I know it sounds strange but I am a bit odd. Happy Rosh HaShana Reya!

C.M. Jackson said...

reya-enjoy! shanah tovah!

steven said...

reya i know a baker in town. her arms are beautiful. they are filled with the thousands of pounds of breads and pastries her customers have enjoyed! i look at the arms in your photograph and i am joined to the fingers - one points along the line of the forearm, the other fingers are tucked into her sleeve. warm and protected. also feeling the soft space above her elbow. what stories are told in that image! happy day of awe. steven

Reya Mellicker said...

Everton I think you're cool.

Steven I knew you would like that pic. Every day your comment, your blog, are like flashes of divine light. Thank you.

Kerry said...

Happy New Year, indeed. You get to celebrate this new year, and then again I suppose on January 1st, which should be kind of introspective--but isn't for many of us, most of the time.

I also like the beautiful picture of arms, more telling perhaps than a face might be.

Pauline said...

I like the way she tucks her hands away in a sleeve, under her arm...

Tess Kincaid said...

Happy Rosh Hashanah, Reya. I love the notion of facing God directly. Peace. xx

Merle Sneed said...

My best to you. No matter the season, the holiday, night or day, you are one of my favorite people.

Reya Mellicker said...

Merle Sneed! I feel exactly the same about you!