Sunday, February 14, 2010

Be Happy, It's Adar!

The world is frozen
not growing
or 
so it seems.


But beneath the winter ground
energy
vitality
life
await.


Adar brings joy
and reminds us
of that which is
hidden

from others
from ourselves
from view
from history
from knowing


Esther wore a 
mask
hiding her 
true self.


In Adar we
put on masks
in order
to better
find
ourselves.

Today is Rosh Chodesh Adar, the new moon of the Hebrew month of Adar. It's the most joyous month in the Jewish calendar because it contains the holiday of Purim, a holiday of great happiness. In fact, Adar has the motto "mi-she-nichnas Adar marbim b'simcha" - which means, "When Adar comes, joy increases."


May this month bring joy and happiness, as we put on our masks to celebrate Esther's bravery in saving her people. May we find meaning and power in the remembrance of the story of Purim, and may the month bring health and hope.

No comments: