Episode 57. As an American Reform Rabbi who made Aliyah (moved to Israel) about a year ago with her family, she has found herself in an all-too-real Israel. Her lifelong liberal leaning into the Ruach (spirit) and not the war of the prayer she grew up with, has been shattered. Discovering that both spirit and war is necessary has been humbling. That said, joining the ranks of volunteers, in her case doing agricultural work near the Gaza border, has reconnected her with the original vision of Israel. Moreover, being swept up in the national spirit has been like nothing she’s ever experienced. On a spiritual level, she has found both yoga and the ancient words of the Shabbat service to be grounding. Highlights: ·       Amidah prayer evokes unity and solidarity. ·       Individual spirituality, synagogue community, and national spirit. ·       National spirit and sense of togetherness and resilience. ·       Finding light and hope in times of trauma. ·       Intensified Jewishness and Israeliness since October 7th. Social Media links for Tara:  Website – https://talkingpeace.org.il Social Media links for Méli: Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/melisolomon/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066435622271 Transcript:   https://www.buzzsprout.com/1851013/episodes/14211730 Follow the podcast! The Living Our Beliefs podcast offers a place to learn about other religions and faith practices. When you hear about how observant Christians, Jews and Muslims live their faith, new ideas and questions arise:  Is your way similar or different?  Is there an idea or practice that you want to explore?  Understanding how other people live opens your mind and heart to new people you meet.  Comments?  Questions? Email  Méli at – [email protected] The Living Our Beliefs podcast is part of the Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org/