I have my spiritual high tides and low tides. Often that coincides with the “High Holidays” Bundled up with forgiveness and reflection is the white shrouded reality of endings. Indeed, on the Day of Atonement we are encouraged to wear white, the white that reminds us of the shroud we will be buried in. This time, this year, the ghosts of exile tinged with inter-generational fear enter the days of awe. Synagogues will have Police cars in front of them. No Church I know of in Canada needs that protection. One thing I do know is that I will not hide. I will not make a spectacle of myself but neither will I scurry about , head down, hoping that I won’t be singled out. The New Year brings the promise of life renewed. Of aspirations for a better year, for everyone. Kippur asks the question: “Who shall live and who shall die”. I interpret that metaphorically. What in me shall live and what in me must die. Renewal , redemption and reflection. Unplugged and nourished, not by indulgence, but by seeking the sacred spark in all. In everyone one.