IN THE MIDST OF IT ALL: CELEBRATING LIFE’S MOMENTS WITH PURPOSE

There’s an unspoken rhythm to life, a subtle dance between moments of joy and sorrow. In the midst of everything happening in the world – the challenges we face, the uncertainty that lingers, the grief we carry…It’s easy to forget that we are also called to celebrate. Big or small, personal or collective, these celebrations are the anchors that help us stay grounded and human.

In recent days, I’ve found myself noticing and appreciating the little things more than usual… the birth of a new great nephew, joy-filled announcements of milestone birthdays and many new couples announcing their engagements. Even with the weight of global struggles, these moments of joy feel both fragile and powerful. They remind us that even in times of sadness, there’s a place for celebration.

We live in a world that demands we pay attention to the big headlines – the catastrophes, the losses, the injustices. But if we focus too much on what’s wrong, we risk missing the quiet, beautiful things happening every day. These moments can seem small in the face of tragedy, but they are not insignificant. They are the threads that weave meaning into our lives.

Celebrating these special moments serves as an act of resilience. It’s not a denial of the world’s pain, but rather an acknowledgment that life, in all its complexity, deserves to be celebrated. They are a testament to our collective strength, and a reminder that even in the hardest of times, we are capable and worthy of celebration.

There’s a certain sanctity in the act of remembering those we’ve lost, even if we can’t physically be with them. Every milestone event becomes a quiet tribute to those who are no longer with us. A friend’s engagement might evoke memories of a parent who never saw their wedding day, but that doesn’t make the celebration any less meaningful. In fact, it makes it richer. Celebrating the living while honoring the memory of the dead creates a bridge between the past and present, allowing us to carry their love, wisdom, and legacy.

But it’s not just about remembering the ones we’ve lost. There’s also a profound importance in honoring those we’ve never met – the people who have affected the course of our world, the strangers who endure unimaginable hardships, the communities we may never visit but feel a deep connection to. By celebrating life’s small and big wins, we create a ripple effect that transcends time and place, a shared humanity that connects us all.

It’s easy to slip into autopilot, to let life pass by while we wait for the “perfect moment” to celebrate. But as the world continues to move in unexpected ways, I’ve come to realize that the perfect moment is often the one we make ourselves. Being present in the now, embracing the moments as they come, is the greatest gift we can give ourselves and others.

Even when the world feels heavy, when grief seems overwhelming, when news of suffering floods our screens, we are still here. We are still living. And that is a reason to celebrate. Whether it’s the simple joy of seeing a friend’s smile, the quiet satisfaction of completing a small task, or the collective hope we share for a better tomorrow – every moment counts.

In times of uncertainty, it’s easy to forget how powerful celebration can be. But the truth is, by honoring the small joys, we fortify our hearts for the bigger challenges. We build resilience through our ability to be present, to reflect, and to honor the beauty in the world, even in the midst of sadness.

As we navigate life’s challenges, let us remember that every celebration – no matter how small – is an act of courage, an act of hope, and a tribute to the love that binds us all together. Today, let’s celebrate the moments, big and small, that remind us to be present in a world that so desperately needs us to do so.

As my friends and family are announcing lovely celebrations and planning milestone events in the future, I’m feeling incredibly grateful for the blessings in my life…. my loving husband, amazing family, wonderful friends, and the work that brings me fulfillment shared by amazing colleagues and residents at JSL who have become family.

Hoping all our readers enjoyed the celebration of Thanksgiving filled with meaning, joy, and delicious moments with incredible leftovers. May the memories carry you for years to come.

Shabbat Shalom.