Enter the MATZ’OY!

It's coming! That time when were not allowed what's risen, only what's not risen. Passover is upon us.

I've already shared some of my fond memories of great preparation, the cleaning, the cooking, the company and of course, the fruit compote, a much needed addition to counter all that matzah! We read the story of the Exodus of the Israelites from Egypt, the remembrance of an historical event, that has taken on mythical and legendary proportions. In a number of ways, the Exodus story reflects part of our journey through life. Many times, we must leave the familiar and the known and we are either kicked out, or forced to leave the familiar for the midbar, the wilderness of the unknown.

The unknown and unfamiliar is feared, but it also provides a new look at ourselves, our situation and our options. It is a great opportunity to encounter our Highest Self, Higher Power, Great Spirit, The Force, etc. . . . Once a person faces the unknown, scary as that might be, the unfamiliar becomes a place of learning and growth.

Recently, I was speaking to a parent of one of my students. Though they were born Jewish, they were not raised in the religion. She asked, "Why spend those days eating the matzah and not eating products with leaven? Does God really care?"

I answered that I don't know about what "God" thinks, but for me, it is an exercise, a discipline, a spring cleaning for the soul, a new beginning in the season of life renewed and a spiritual tie to an ancient tradition in which I choose to participate and find meaning.

Eating matzah and keeping the Passover is not giving up bread, but adding the taste of something different than the rest of the year. This is one way I am bound to the Past, Present and Future and to be grateful and thankful for the unfamiliar and to not fear exploring the unknown -- because it is there that lies our greatest adventures.

Shalom,

Rabbi Jeffrey Leynor