It has been one month since I began my new position as the rabbi of Temple Beit HaYam. I can't say that I have mastered anything in my new job yet, but here are ten observations about the experience:
1) As excited as I am about the new congregation, the members of the congregation are even more excited about the new rabbi. There is a tremendous amount of energy in the congregation because of the transition. I'm trying to harness that energy to build lasting efforts toward long-term goals.
2) Everything is on the table. I have not yet heard someone say, "We don't want you to change that at all." With the energy of transition there is the ability to consider careful and thoughtful changes in almost every aspect of the congregation.
3) I could eat three meals a day for a month just by accepting every invitation I've received. I regret the need to say "no" or "not yet."
4) It takes a long time to feel really comfortable in a new workplace. I didn't realize how many details go into making my office just right.
5) There is a limit to the number of new names my brain can learn in a day. I have a long way to go.
6) The fact that I feel so overwhelmed by everything reminds me not to overwhelm the congregation with things that are new to them.
7) Human beings are, by nature, warm and welcoming to someone who has come to join their community.
8) I constantly need to forgive myself for not understanding so much about how this congregation works.
9) Unpacking boxes takes a really long time.
10) Everything offered with love is received with love. Every kindness is an invitation to kindness in return. I am blessed to be here.
1) As excited as I am about the new congregation, the members of the congregation are even more excited about the new rabbi. There is a tremendous amount of energy in the congregation because of the transition. I'm trying to harness that energy to build lasting efforts toward long-term goals.
2) Everything is on the table. I have not yet heard someone say, "We don't want you to change that at all." With the energy of transition there is the ability to consider careful and thoughtful changes in almost every aspect of the congregation.
3) I could eat three meals a day for a month just by accepting every invitation I've received. I regret the need to say "no" or "not yet."
4) It takes a long time to feel really comfortable in a new workplace. I didn't realize how many details go into making my office just right.
5) There is a limit to the number of new names my brain can learn in a day. I have a long way to go.
6) The fact that I feel so overwhelmed by everything reminds me not to overwhelm the congregation with things that are new to them.
7) Human beings are, by nature, warm and welcoming to someone who has come to join their community.
8) I constantly need to forgive myself for not understanding so much about how this congregation works.
9) Unpacking boxes takes a really long time.
10) Everything offered with love is received with love. Every kindness is an invitation to kindness in return. I am blessed to be here.
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