Newton’s third law of motion: For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. During this week, that has been my stable point for some linguistic, philosophical, and theological thoughts. What I’m trying to say now is mostly for me. I just need to sort and this is my means. I do have some unmoveable beliefs, yet I am also a Jewish rabbi: On one hand and on the other. In the midst of moral, economic, and health decisions causing pronouncements to be made, I am inclined to look at the other side to find balance. Part of my search involve those verities we call proverbs or adages. Choose your favorite. Too many cooks spoil the broth/ Many hands make light work. Look before you leap/Strike while the iron is hot.
These ruminations started Sunday with a good sermon based on Jeremiah 29:7 -‘ Seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile.” We are all in exile from what we thought was normal. Then the pithy saying was “Bloom where you are planted.” The truth in that is doing your best may lead to survival, yet may not be the end of the story.
Charis parable. A friend gave me some ground orchids with the advice they would spread and give purple delight. I did some reading and planted them. For two years they produced a bloom, yet nothing like what was promised. I went to my always next step for puny plants. I moved them. And lo, it was like a miracle. The foliage was green and lush and the many amethyst blossoms shone across the whole yard. They had bloomed where they were planted. They thrived in the right conditions.
I’m trying not to shrivel in these days. I am seeking actions and words that help me and all around me. Deep inside I know these are not my best blooms, yet they are an offering of possibilities. What I question leads to a right decision and the surety to continue on an opening path. Or another opposite: Doubt is the beginning of wisdom/Faith will move mountains. Doing my best where I am, leads to God’s next statement.
For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil.
Jeremiah 29:11
Let Me Tell Ya 