Welcome.
There are moments when we long to feel held.
Protected.
And reminded that we are never alone.
In the Hebrew tradition,
There is an ancient blessing known as Birkat.
Kohanim.
The priestly blessing.
For thousands of years,
These sacred words have been spoken over children,
Families,
And communities as a blessing of protection,
Grace,
And peace.
You do not need to know Hebrew to receive its blessings.
Simply allow yourself to listen.
Take a slow breath in and a slower breath out.
Allow your shoulders to soften.
Your hands to rest.
You're hard to become still.
Listen now to these ancient words.
Yivarechecha Adonai Ve'yishmarecha.
Ye'er Adonai panayv eylecha.
V'chonika.
Yesa Adonai Panav Elecha!
V'yaseym l'cha shalom.
Its blessing is this.
May the Eternal bless you and protect you.
May Divine Light shine upon you and be gracious to you.
May the Eternal turn toward you and grant you peace.
Take a slow breath in and a slower breath out.
As you inhale,
Receive the blessing.
As you exhale,
Receive its protection.
Take another slow breath.
Imagine a gentle light surrounding you.
Warming every place within you that longs for kindness.
Compassion.
And grace.
As you exhale,
Soften into that light.
Take one more slow breath.
Receive the gift of peace.
Not a piece that depends upon perfect circumstances.
But a quiet peace already waiting within you.
Silently repeat.
Shalom.
Peace.
Again.
Shalom.
Feel that word resting gently within your heart.
Calming your thoughts.
Softening your body.
And opening you to the blessing already present in this moment.
Take one final deep breath.
May you walk through this day knowing you are blessed.
Protected in every season.
Guided by light.
And filled with peace.
Shaddam.
May this ancient blessing remain with you always.
Go gently.
You
