#1 and i went to Erev Rosh HaShanah ritual last night at my mother's congregation and was surprised that it was as positive an experience as it was.

#1 and i kept pointing out all the spots in which our traditions (Judaism and Reclaiming) blended with each other and yet developed into different perspectives that don't seem to embrace each other (other than an emerging "Green Judaism"). i found that to be a pity but understand the realities of the history, the numbers game, the face of continued assimiliation, etc... i'm just not supportive of big do-as-i-say religion.

What i really enjoyed was the sermon.

Told from the view point of a connoisseur at a State Fairground, it was all about not accepting a feel-good, watered down version of Judaism. It drew correlations using the fatty, starchy version of "food" and what SHOULD sustain and nourish our bodies vs healthy options. It also advocated against martyrdom as a base, "Join us. We survive!" (that was a hoot in a pathetic way). These are both ideas i support and have for a long time.

i want "feel-good" with depth, with ecstatic chant, with deep ritual, with joy, with learning and knowledge... with tachlis.

i don't want "watered down" in order to be accessible to the masses who play at religion, i want to choose, from a point of knowing all the options for observance, what i feel works for me. What "elevates my soul" as the leaders of Reform Judaism say.

It's funny that i can do this with a foot firmly planted in each camp. i can work well with earth energies, honouring the cycle of the seasons through the stories of the Gods and other myths. i can agree with some of what i read last night, and see history and truth there, as it applies to me. i love that both sides believe in the magickal (though Judaism is loathe to call it that) and in the power of intention to cause change. i love that i have a broad perspective that challenges me to learn more, to grow and experience and to DO more.

L'Shanah Tova my friends, and an early Blessed Mabon/Succot