Time to be still and reflect after the seders while we are in the middle of Pesach after the Seders and before Shabbat. Where has the Most High met you and brought you out of your Mitzrayim / Egypt this year? When we tell the stories we are telling our story, to ourselves, and to our loved ones.

The story reinforces who we are, whose we are, and in the retelling we gain emunah (faith, trust, belief) in HaShem and in who the Most High knows we are. It is a time to step into our future which the Holy One, Blessed be He, has prepared for us.

HaShem’s mercy and compassion are great. As we take time to speak with the Most High in our own words expressing our faith, struggles, desires, and requests we come to hear and know the Most High while we begin to know whom He has brought us to be in His economy.

This week come explore the story and see it in your life today. Who are you destined to be? What have you been destined to do?

Ruth Etalka

Hitbodedut is an ancient form of Jewish prayer that takes place in nature or in a secluded area. It is an opportunity to have a conversation with the Divine, just like you would with your closest friend. Just start talking to your Greater Power and you don’t edit—you simply empty your mind and heart.

To get a real sense of the practice, I recommend trying it at least twice a week for a month, using fifteen-minute sessions. This is pretty easy to accomplish even for those of us who feel we have no time. You can practice this form of prayer while driving, during your morning coffee or while doing chores.