Freedom

Credit: Brittney Jean Photography

Every year, as Passover approaches, I think about the idea of FREEDOM.

And each year it takes on new and deeper meaning.

The story of Passover is is the central story of the Jewish people- the story of our liberation. We are taught from a young age that “in every generation, a person should feel as though they themselves were liberated from being slaves in Egypt.”

We purge the chametz (leavened bread products) from our diets, our homes and our lives. Chametz is a metaphor for the unhealthy ego, and for anything toxic in our lives. It’s a time for reflection and to take stock of what people, thoughts, mindsets and situations in our lives are serving us, and which are holding us back.

As always, the purge has to start from within.

“Free your mind, and the rest will follow.”

En Vogue got it.

Though it was thousands of years ago that our ancestors were liberated from slavery in Egypt, the Jewish people have experienced persecution, oppression, enslavement, and marginalization in almost every generation around the world. And so have too many others. 

I’m proud to come from a people that believes so strongly in the values of freedom, liberation, and self-determination for ALL people.

The truth is, liberation is an ongoing process. It’s a continuous effort. It has to happen in every generation, in every community, and in every person.

So start with your own mind.

What do you need to break free from to liberate your mind? To liberate yourself... so that the rest can follow?

Wishing a Chag Sameach and Happy Passover to everyone celebrating… and to ALL, the feeling of true freedom!