Rev. Vicky's Message February 5, 2026

These are such challenging times.  I am finding that it takes practiced (and practicing) mindfulness, daily (sometimes hourly), to keep my attention focused on Truth while also bearing witness to all that is going on around us.

As I prepared this eblast – I was reminded of the prayer we shared at the start of this year (and continue to share in this weekly eblast). If you’re like me, you might have forgotten that it is here – so I thought I would remind us all – just in case…

A Prayer Before Reading the News

(written by Rabbi Irwin Keller in early 2016)

Elohai neshamah shenatata bi tehorah hi 

My God, the soul you have placed in me is pure and vulnerable. 

I am afraid that looking at today’s news will be painful. 

Encircle me in a robe of light so that I can witness the wounds of the world without being wounded myself. Let me learn what I need to know in order to be of my greatest use, without being overwhelmed by despair. I feel your protective light now as I open myself to 

the world’s suffering and the world’s joy.  Amen.

I also came across another powerful reminder as I read the Kennedy family response to what our sitting President is currently planning to do to the Kennedy Center… Joe Kennedy III, a great-nephew of John F. Kennedy, wrote on social media:

“President John F. Kennedy believed that one day this country would live up to its promise of justice and equal rights for all. For those beliefs and for his sacrifice, Congress voted to make The Kennedy Center a living memorial to him, as a place built by the people for the people to celebrate what connects us.

While this trespass on the People’s will is painful, President Kennedy would remind us that it is not buildings that define the greatness of a nation. It is the actions of its people and its leaders," he continued. "So, do not be distracted from what this Administration is actually trying to erase: our connection, our community, and our commitment to the rights of all."

“I affirm divine order and feel comforted and assured

of God’s presence in and through all things.” (DW 2.15)

Blessings,

Rev. Vicky