This week it's all about growth.
It's Tu B'shvat, the Jewish New Year of the trees.
We commemorate it by thinking about the environment, eating fruit (especially the special seven), and trying to emulate trees.
How does one be like a tree?
Every day it grows, not satisfied with the accomplishments of yesterday. It's not happy that it has the nutrients that it needs, but seeks to provide nourishment for others, yielding luscious fruit from its branches. It uses its shade to protect and shield from the harsh rays of the sun.
Yet at the same time, we see the importance of caring for those same trees to keep that precious environmental balance going. And that holds particularly true in the tree's earliest stages. The seed needs to be perfect and unblemished, the young sprout needs warmth and protection, and the young sapling needs support. With the continuous care and nurture, and blessings from Above, we can be sure that it will grow into a sturdy and productive tree.
This is the inspiration behind so many of the programs that we do at Chabad, from our amazing Camp Aleph (registration is open for summer 2018), to our Jewish Kids Cluband Ready, Set Aleph Bet.
And now, for the very youngest, we have just launched JSprouts a whole series of awesome programs, to create a nurturing and supportive atmosphere in a fun and exciting way. Check it all out at www.JSprouts.com
1st event this Wednesday - see below!
And if you have outgrown that young and delightful stage, yet are still young at heart, join us for Tu Bshvat planting at Steamer Landing Park this Sunday at 12:30pm inpartnership with the Friends of the Petaluma River. This event is for all ages young and old alike!
And most important, let's learn from the trees in our own life, to continue to grow, and to always be there for others.
ב"ה