Pluralism

Since going away to school I have become fascinated by the concept of pluralism. What is pluralism? Being involved in NFTY, it never even occured to me that I could gain something from other types of Judaism. I was proud of my Reform Jewish identity, and didn't really feel the need to attempt to understand others. When I arrived at Binghamton, I was looking for meaningful Jewish experiences. Often, I found those through relationships. I surrounded myself with people who were searching for the same. I was lucky enough to learn from people who had the ability to be open-minded enough to see beyond whatever flavor of Judaism they identified with. Many friends, when asked if they identified with one of the major denominations, would describe their Judaism as beyond a label. As I went through college I too began to realize that I don't like labels. That's my problem. If I want to be a Rabbi I feel like I have to pick a denomination.
I've had the discussion many times with many different types of people about what it means to truly be pluralistic. Why is it that our standard is the halachic orthodox standard (or the frummest common denominator?) For some people, like myself, it is uncomfortable to have men lead every aspect of Shabbat blessings (kiddush, motzi, etc.) Here at AHA, and in the other pluralistic communities I have been a part of, we do what will make the most observant sect of the population comfortable. Why is this? In most situations I've been in, the halachically observant Jews are one of the smallest minorities of the group. Is this really pluralistic?
To me, pluralism is seeing Judaism beyond divisions of Judaism, and creating a community that engages and connects as many Jews as possible. Are there limits to pluralism? Absolutely...

Finding my passion

I haven't really felt the strong desire to be involved in Reform programming since I graduated from high school. This past weekend was the URJ Biennial, the Reform Movement's family reunion, which happens every other year. Working in an intense Jewish environment, I have times where I feel burnt out. I definitely could have used a Biennial experience to recharge me, and remind me that I am a part of something bigger. It's very easy to forget that there is a world beyond the green gates. I went to Biennial in Minnesota in high school as a NFTY participant. In college, I went to Houston and San Diego for Biennial. I was very lucky. In college a few special people made it so I could afford to attend. Now that I'm out of college, Biennial is ridiculously expensive. I also couldn't take off that much time from work. It leaves me wondering, how else can I recharge myself? Sometimes, if I just take a step back and breathe I remember what brought me here in the first place. Other times, I just need something more. I love Jewish conferences. I can't go to Biennial, limmud, or staff a NFTY event. It's almost vacation, and I have a feeling that I'm just going to be frustrated that I can't have the Jewish experiences I want while I'm there.
What do you do to keep yourself inspired? I'm open to suggestions...

Lech Lecha

These ideas are a little scattered...I think I might come back and edit this when I'm more awake.

Go forth. In last weeks parsha, God tells Avraham to leave everything he knows. He leaves his home, family, and everything that is familiar to him. Each one of us is like Avraham. How many times have we felt the pull to just go? At only 23 years old, I can already think of several times I've felt the call to leave everything I know; my first summer away at sleep away camp, my decision to go to Binghamton and most recently my decision to come here to Greensboro.

Going away to Binghamton made me into the independent person I am today. My relationships that year and in the years to follow really tested my ability to trust others. I'm well aware that I have a hard time trusting other people. When I say trusting, I mean really trusting someone, and letting them into your life. While in Binghamton, I had a lot of friends, and a really great social circle. However, I chose to only let a few people really get to know me. I wish I could learn to be more open with others.

It's interesting being in a totally new place with a built in social group like AHA. For the most part, we are all really close. At first I thought that it was going to be like camp, and we would all become best friends after the first week on the job. In an intense environment like AHA, personal space and time becomes really important. Maybe that's why we're not as close as I envisioned? Or maybe it's just me? Have I not been open enough to get to know everyone, and let them into my life?

It's a scary thing to trust, and to let others see you for who you are. This journey of life is all about the relationships one has with others. Lech Lecha. Go Forth. May we all find the ability to open up and show our true colors to those we meet along the way.