Betsy Frank is UHC para-rabbinic fellow and president.
At certain times in our lives, we all face a moment where we need to clean up.
I recently listened to a presentation about reducing stress in our lives. One tip suggested cleaning up clutter. Oops! If that’s the case, I am in trouble!
But just today I inadvertently came upon an opportunity to clean up some clutter.
I had begun searching my computer for an old column to recycle (Recycling — another worthy activity!)
Unfortunately, I carelessly clicked the wrong button, and all my old columns were gone. A search of my files and trash bin revealed nothing. Although I back up content regularly, my files were incomplete.
A little mistake creates opportunity
Then I got to thinking, do I really need to keep all my old files? Probably not.
Further, where else could I clean up on my computer and in my home? What would cleaning out unused items accomplish for my spiritual life?
Perhaps — and I say perhaps — cleaning up would allow me more time to focus on things that matter.
Perhaps — and I say perhaps — cleaning up would allow me more time to focus on things that matter.
Would I take my Daf Yomi more seriously? Would I pray more? Would I focus on relationships more?
I really don’t know the answer to these questions. But certainly, I am thinking about the relationship of clutter in our lives and its relationship to our overall well-being.
In fact, losing all my old columns instantly gave me an idea for this column. One stressor is now relieved.
Cleanup reveals historical documents
And speaking of cleaning up and organizing, our synagogue is taking part in an Indiana Jewish Historical Society project.
Volunteers will scan and digitally archive The Temple’s historical documents, at no cost to us. What a wonderful treasure that will be for our congregation and community.
Volunteers will scan and digitally archive The Temple’s historical documents, at no cost to us.
I look forward to updating you on this project as time goes on.
Finally, I hope if you are sharing Thanksgiving at home with family and friends, cleaning up and getting ready for the holiday won’t create too much stress.
After all, the ability to gather again in person is what counts.
Shalom,
Betsy Frank