It was another beautiful evening at the beach on Saturday, August 29, when 68 people (but who is counting) gathered in our backyard to celebrate Havdalah together.
Known for separating the Shabbat from the ordinary weekdays, Havdalah is a joyful service and a great reason to be together. There are many interpretations of the symbols used during the service: the cup of wine (grape juice) for a full cup of blessings for the coming week; sweet aromatic spices to refresh the soul; and a braided candle to blend light and darkness. All good reasons to make one stop, think, and be grateful.
Rabbi Ari, from Temple Emanuel, lead the group in singing and swaying and treated everyone to a beautiful blowing of the shofar.
And then, there was dessert, another sweet part of the evening. Friends – new and old, young and wise (see what I did there?) – shared this special night. A family from New York, considering a move to the area, also came, knowing not a soul. But when they left, they felt connected. They were thrilled with the welcoming spirit of our community.
We are a lucky bunch.
