Time

Time is often thought of as something precise. After all, it can be measured in hours, minutes even seconds. A six month sabbatical is a long period. Yet, in retrospect it feels like I only began it yesterday. Whether long or short, it has been an extraordinary gift to me from the SAJ community. It has been a time for travel from the small town of Social Circle, Georgia to Paris. It has been a time for reflection. I've had the opportunity to visit other synagogues to see what their services and communities are like. I've spent time on my projects including taking art classes. I've been to a number of synagogues collecting ephemera from the past. I will have more to say on some of these experiences during my High Holiday talks.

It is also good to be back. In last week's service, we announced the beginning of the month of Elul, which commences the High Holiday season. Teshuvah, usually translated as repentance, also means turning and returning. As I return to the SAJ community, I look forward to reconnecting with you as we gather together to reflect on the past year and celebrate the opportunities of the coming New Year!