Finding Light in Tradition: My Story of Jewish Joy

Last updated on: November 7, 2024 at 11:35 am by Kelley Rouland M.A.

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Finding Light in Tradition: My Story of Jewish Joy 2024-11-07T11:35:57-07:00 Kelley Rouland M.A.

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Photo by Ben White on Unsplash/ My Jewish faith and its longstanding traditions have been the vehicle that led me to a joy-filled life.

Since the topic recently began trending, I have been thinking about joy. What does it truly mean to live a joy-filled life, and how can we achieve this, if we aren’t already?

True joy isn’t found in a political party or a long-awaited victory, nor is it hiding in material wealth or popularity. It is found within. Our capacity to live joyfully solely depends on us.

My Jewish faith and its longstanding traditions have been the vehicle that led me to a joy-filled life. It’s helped me overcome the trauma of domestic violence and the heartbreak of divorce. God has guided me away from toxic people and places and toward a loving and kind community while paving the way for limitless joy.

Whatever your religion, faith is the foundation on which true joy is built. I am reminded of this every day. Whenever I say a Jewish prayer, light Shabbat candles, or give tzedakah I grow closer to God.

The list of aspects of Jewish life that bring me joy is extensive, but for brevity, I’ve narrowed it down to two: The Jewish community and the structure of Jewish life.

The Jewish Community

I’ve derived so much joy from my local synagogue. The people alone have shown endless support and inclusion. The services are joy-filled occasions with dancing and singing.

When the rabbi carries the Torah scrolls among the congregation, children help carry pieces of the scroll. This brings such light and love to the tradition; it is during these sweet moments I fall deeper in love with my chosen faith and the joy I glean from celebrations like Purim leaves me on cloud nine for days.

Being a part of this community makes me feel included, cared for, and a part of something much bigger than myself.

The Structure of Jewish Life

Being Jewish means there is always something on the schedule. Every week we rest and restore on Shabbat. There is a Torah portion to read each week. Throughout the year there are plenty of joy-filled Jewish holidays and festivals to look forward to.

This structure is a source of joy for me. I feel as though I am being guided through life. As soon as one event concludes, another is just around the corner. This is one of my favorite aspects of living a Jewish life.

There are daily ways we practice our faith that help to keep us in a state of joy. Every morning, upon waking, and before getting out of bed, we recite the Modeh Ani; a prayer of gratitude. It’s our opportunity to thank God for another day of life.

We place Mezuzahs outside our doors as a reminder of our Jewish identity and to affirm our commitment to our faith. A Mezuzah is a small decorative box affixed to the right of a door containing scripture on parchment paper.

The Mezuzah also tells the outside world that this is a Jewish home. ReformJudaism.com explains:

“The custom of affixing a mezuzah to the doorpost fulfills the biblical commandment: “You shall write them upon the doorposts of thy house and upon thy gates” (Deuteronomy 6:9). The mezuzah distinguishes a Jewish home and is a visible sign and symbol to all those who enter that a sense of Jewish identity and commitment exists in that household. The mezuzah reminds us that our homes are holy places and that we should act accordingly—when we enter them and when we leave them to go out into the world. “

Traditionally, many Jews touch the Mezuzah as they pass by and then kiss their fingers to show their love for God. I look forward to incorporating this tradition into my life and what a wonderful way to experience God’s love and the joy of my Jewish faith.

Conclusion

Joy is a choice. Despite the difficulties life may throw at us we have to actively seek joy and there is no better place than our faith. My Jewish faith has brought a bounty of joy through the kind, caring, and inclusive community at my local synagogue and the daily guidance of a structured Jewish life.

I hope this article finds you in a state of perpetual joy. Thank you so much for reading and please feel free to share your thoughts and feelings in the comments. I would love to hear from you. Shalom friends!

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