Searching for Words When You Have None?
Published: Wed, 05/25/22
I had planned to introduce myself and pitch some of my clients, but my heart just isn't in it after the shooting in Texas.
I am horrified and deeply saddened by what happened. My chaplain training took over yesterday and all I could do was hold onto people and not let go.
My thoughts are with the families of the victims, who have suffered an unimaginable loss.
In the face of such tragedy, it can be hard to know what to do or say.
But I think it is important that we all stand together in support of those who have been affected. We must also continue to work towards making our world a safer place for everyone. Only coming together can we hope to achieve this goal.
Many of us know how hard it is to lose a loved one. It can be difficult to find the words to express our grief, and we may feel alone in our sorrow. However, we are not alone. In Jewish tradition, grieving is a communal process, and there are many ways to seek comfort and support. For example, the book of Psalms includes many verses that offer words of consolation and hope. One of these verses, Psalm 130, is often recited by those who are grieving.
The act of reciting the Psalm helps to connect us with others who have experienced loss, and it can be a source of strength and comfort. In addition, high school and middle school students around the world recite Psalm 130 as part of their studies. By doing so, they remember those who have passed away and offer support to those who are grieving.
When reciting this Psalm, we can come together in our grief and find comfort in knowing that we are not alone.
A song of ascents.
Out of the depths I call You, O LORD.
O Lord, listen to my cry;
let Your ears be attentive
to my plea for mercy.
If You keep account of sins, O LORD,
Lord, who will survive?
Yours is the power to forgive
so that You may be held in awe.
I look to the LORD;
I look to Him;
I await His word.
I am more eager for the Lord
than watchmen for the morning,
watchmen for the morning.
O Israel, wait for the LORD;
for with the LORD is steadfast love
and great power to redeem.
It is He who will redeem Israel from all their iniquities.
Love yourself and others,
R' Pesach Lattin
pesach@lattin.us