Extended Family
At dance class as I listened to the drums, aside from the rhythms, I actually heard music. There was a melody coming through that the drums alone could not be sounding. It was magical. We danced, “Kassa,” one of my favorite dances from the Malinke people of Guinea. It is not surprising that the word means, “to plant.” As I danced, I was able to be uplifted, challenged, graceful, shed some tears and even be silly. My mom was coming through and Maya too, as always. I felt held. No, not physically, but by the loving arms of this community.
And “this community” goes far beyond the dance floor. I find my community at my work at JFS Orange, it’s the Kol Hai community, the Woodstock Jewish Congregation, New Paltz Jewish Congregation, my friends from childhood, social action groups, my family, Rowe, my neighbors, parents of my children’s friends, storekeepers, people on Facebook, people we touch through the work of the Maya Gold Foundation and on and on. Gee, if you are reading this, you are part of my community.
Rabbi Jonathan has shared with me, “it’s gravity that keeps on the ground, it’s love that keeps us connected.” I will take that one step further. It is being connected that has kept me on the ground. Without the love, your love, I don’t know how I’d be here. Really.
I know that I’ve expressed these feelings in the past, but my heart tells me that it’s important to give voice to them again. As this year is coming to a close, I’m sharing with you my deep gratitude and love.
Deep gratitude and love right back at you, Elise. So glad to feel connected to you too!
I have been meaning to share this with you. This past fall, Hanna and I assisted a second time with Mothering and Daughtering at Omega. I am always reminded of you and Maya, of where/ how I met you and the impact you both had on Hanna and I. This time, after one of the “breakout” sessions for the girls, Hanna was telling me about her experience. She said that after the girls expressed their feelings and experiences about bullying, Hanna said they should have a group hug. She said they all loved it and then commented, “I got that from Maya. She did that.” I wanted to let you know that Maya’s love, kindness and compassion made an impact on Hanna and is being carried on. I thank you both for that.
Dear Rachel,
Yes, yes; certainly the Mothering and Daughtering community too (at Omega, and beyond).
Thank you for sharing Hanna’s story. It fills my heart to know that the ripples of Maya’s love continue to spread in this way; through your beautiful daughter and onto others.
Love to you and Hanna for the New Year,
Elise
This has given me goose bumps and it is a joy to read as we start the new year. xo
Sweet Elise, It is your willingness, openness, courage, and LOVE ALWAYS that allow us hold you and give to you so freely. Thank you.
And, the email of this post had a little magic (did you intend it?) at the end… 11:11!
😉
Dearest Elise,
Over the decades, you have given so much to me and to so many others. We are also the ones who have been grounded and learned so very much from you and your love.
XO Jody XO
You are an inspiration and a blessing.
I appreciate the opportunities you have provided with the Maya Gold Foundation and am immensely glad you have stayed on the ground. Best wishes for 2017.
Happy New Year Elise! Lots and lots and lots of love. You are an inspiration to us all as an embodiment of hope.
Dear Elise,
I am so enriched by being part of your web of connections!
Love,
Rabbi Jonathan
Love you, Elise. In gratitude for the connection.
It is an amazing community…our African dance and drum brother’s and sisters. I have lived in many places, but always call this place “home”.