This Thanksgiving will be different for all of us because of this pandemic AND because of the different needs that various vaccination requirements, differing perspectives, and behavioral choices present to each one of us. The iconic gatherings to which we had been so accustomed for decades, sharing the bounty of the harvest — both the physical joys of food and drink as well as the spiritual fruits of our relationships — will be different again this year, but perhaps in less obvious ways. How do we greet this new reality without getting overwhelmed by the complexity of meeting this moment fully while maintaining our heritage’s guidance on righteousness and respectfulness?

We will explore and acknowledge the challenges facing us this year with the real-life impacts of COVID-19 and the feelings of loss and difficult interpersonal relationships that will likely be present. Perhaps, this year we may be facing the harsh reality of a direct loss of someone near and dear to us who succumbed to this disease or has been diminished by it.

How do we express thanks (Modeh Ani L’fanekha . . . ) when we do not feel the fullness of God's blessings?

Please note: Though this is NOT therapy, we will insist that our gathering remain a confidential setting as we honor our humanity and our privacy. And, of course, we will endeavor to make it a non-judgmental and supportive space where everyone may be heard and acknowledged as best as possible in our limited time. Thank you for bringing all of yourself to this special experience.