Thank you for choosing to join me and artist Jacqueline Nicholls on this 40 day journey into a new year. I hope these reflections on the ripples of our being inspire private introspection and public conversation. Here’s today’s post:

Prepent Day 23

Rage erupts. Often it’s worse when directed at those in our inner circle, the place where things matter most. Road rage or toxic online exchanges are often replacements. How do I better maintain and manage my anger with those closest to me? Today I make a secret list: who makes me the most angry. I’ll stick to ten but even if it’s longer, who is there? Why? And how can I work on a shorter list next year?

One tool: After a volatile break up earlier this year I came up with the concept of an “emotional safe word” – a code, verbal or not, to indicate that we have just crossed a line. Maybe our voice begins that volcanic eruption, and the emotional safe word helps us stop and become aware before it passes the point of no return. I take time today for reflection on anger management. Make the list. Consider at least one helpful tool in the year ahead.

– Rabbi Amichai

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Very excited for Lab/Shul’s fifth season of High Holy Days, back in Tribeca. We invite all ages to return to center, recharge soul, reclaim community and co-create our widening circles of care, compassion and justice.