Lately, my mind has been preoccupied with the nature of our conversations—the very way we exchange ideas and navigate through differences. In an era marked by quick judgments and digital debates, the art of dialogue seems all but forgotten.  open.spotify.com/episode/0Dow1

There's an unspoken societal pressure to formulate and defend opinions on myriad issues. Yet, constantly forming judgments and opinions can be both tiring and limiting. This incessant need to understand and opine on everything is not only unrealistic but also narrows our appreciation of the world's complexities. There is wisdom in recognizing that it's okay not to understand everything and to allow oneself the space to learn, grow, and evolve. shorturl.at/bijsB

I am heartbroken by the unimaginable loss of life and suffering resulting from the recent attack on Israel by Hamas. As we bear witness to these tragedies, my prayers are with the victims, their families, and those taken hostage, yearning for their safe return.

Hashkiveinu: a prayer we say only at night asking God for protection, so that we may rise again.
youtu.be/xIATBF_5Z_U

Last night I was on a radio program in Hillsborough NC at WHUPFM the show is called Pass the Hat and features local songwriters. It was streamed on Facebook, Twitch and YouTube Here is the link to the YouTube stream youtube.com/live/3AuTwOsl_8Q?s

"By placing all of our fall holidays so closely together, we are invited to celebrate the truly awe-inspiring possibilities of a new year as we become the best we are meant to be, as individuals and together as a community."
open.substack.com/pub/rabbisan

Life's true beauty lies not in its predictability but in its endless potential for surprise and growth. Embrace every twist, for each adds depth to our story.
open.substack.com/pub/rabbisan

"In the embrace of the sukkah, distinctions blur, urging us to challenge prejudices and biases, reminding us of our timeless blessing: 'I take upon myself the commitment to love my neighbor as myself."
rabbisandra.substack.com/p/fro

@Cryspeg I’m not sure you understood what I wrote. I am not saying that anyone is obligated to forgive someone who who hurt them. If you also read this piece and the other piece it might help you to understand how this works Jewishly.
open.substack.com/pub/rabbisan

As we approach the pinnacle of the holiest days in the Jewish calendar, let’s reflect on “May you be written into the Book of Life.” And the role of Teshuva, or repentance, becomes especially crucial if we have knowingly harmed someone, mainly if they've made us aware of it. Whether the harm was intentional or not, the act of teshuva is vital. We must not step into the new year with the weight of pain we have caused others on our shoulders. We must seek forgiveness.

As Elul unfolds it’s a time for reflection, repentance and renewal. It's a period to delve deep into the recesses of our past, to confront our mistakes, learn invaluable lessons and leave the past where it belongs - behind us. As we approach the High Holidays, let's embrace the newness that awaits us with open arms and a heart full of hope. Let’s be grateful for the resilience instilled in us and the opportunities ahead.
open.substack.com/pub/rabbisan

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Rabbi Sandra Lawson

CounterSocial is the first Social Network Platform to take a zero-tolerance stance to hostile nations, bot accounts and trolls who are weaponizing OUR social media platforms and freedoms to engage in influence operations against us. And we're here to counter it.