Finding Joy in the Silence: Thoughts for a Peaceful Week

Last updated on: June 16, 2025 at 1:53 pm by Kelley Rouland M.A.

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Finding Joy in the Silence: Thoughts for a Peaceful Week 2025-06-16T13:53:30-06:00 Kelley Rouland M.A.

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Even in the darkest hours, look for the light/Photo by Irina Anastasiu: https://www.pexels.com/photo/clear-glass-candle-holder-54512/

Finding Peace in the Early Morning Hours

Every morning, before starting my day, I take time to sit in solitude. I pray, meditate, read from the Torah, and set my intentions for the day. Sometimes, this morning routine is effortless; other times, not so much. The weight of the world is weighing heavily on my shoulders.

My mind turns to the hostages still held captive in Gaza and all those who have experienced the devastation of antisemitic attacks. At the same time, political unrest across the nation continues to escalate, and at times, it becomes overwhelming.

These feelings of sadness serve as a barrier to achieving inner peace. The state from which we can make the most significant impact in the world. When this happens, I am reminded of the old saying, “You can’t pour from an empty cup.” As difficult as it may be to cross that threshold, we must take time to restore ourselves.

Inspiration From the Tanakh

Our hearts are our most significant connection to the Divine and the vessel through which love, compassion, and kindness freely flow; we must protect our hearts. Jewish wisdom offers extensive guidance on how to turn away from worry and anxiety and toward our faith. Here are a few passages from the Tanakh that have brought me comfort in times of stress:

“God is our refuge and stronghold, a help in trouble, very near. Therefore we are not afraid though the earth reels, though the mountains topple into the sea–its waters rage and foam; in its swell mountains quake.”
Psalm 46:2-4

“Be strong and resolute, be not in fear or in dread of them; for the Lord your God Himself marches with you: He will not fail you or forsake you.
Deuteronomy 31-6

“O you who dwell in the shelter of the Most High and abide in the protection of Shaddai–I say of the Lord, my refuge and stronghold, my God in whom I trust, that he will save you from the fowler’s trap, from the destructive plague.”
Psalm 91:1-4

These passages serve as reminders of God’s love and protection during our darkest hours, acting as a guiding light that leads us out of the darkness. Always look for the light.

Seeing Light in the Week Ahead

As we start a new week, I am grateful for the illumination of love and unwavering faith that transcends the darkness. While hostages remain in captivity, people of faith from every corner of the world gather in prayer for their release. Jewish communities are stronger than ever; despite antisemitism, they dance and rejoice in God’s presence. Though unrest continues, people from all over the world are praying for a resolution.

Even in the darkest hours, there is light. We must combat fear and worry with faith and wisdom. Whatever you are going through, please take care to restore yourself. Take time for prayer and meditation each morning. Set your intentions for the day. Nurturing our bodies and minds is a Mitzvah, and taking these essential first steps each morning makes the rest of the day so much better.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this article. It means a great deal, and I would love to learn about your journey as well. Please feel free to reach out through social media.

Wherever you are in the world, know that I am praying for peace. Stay strong and resilient, and hold on tightly to your faith. Love to all! Shavua Tov!

This article is dedicated to the the Bibas family. Their light is still shining bright. May their memory be a blessing.

Here is more on my Jewish journey: