This feature is coordinated by The Post-Standard, Syracuse.com and InterFaith Works of CNY. Follow this theme and author posted Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday.

The Jewish New Year is about many things, including being the birthday of the world. Traditionally, that means the creation of the first humans – Adam and Eve – which means it took place on the sixth day of creation. Why is that important? Because it is immediately followed by a “day” in which God, and all of creation, rested and were refreshed and renewed.

Some might think it odd that God should need refreshing and renewal, but it is a beautiful concept, really. On that seventh day, it’s a very Jewish thing to relax, enjoy, be quiet, and even have intimate relations. It is a day of joy, not of slumber; it is not so much refraining from work as it is swimming in the quiet waters of life. And it is a time to be spent with family and community.

How do you renew yourself? Why not start now?

Jim Brulé is a Maggid – a Jewish spiritual storyteller – who travels the world sharing stories of healing and spiritual growth. He is also a Death Doula and a volunteer chaplain at Upstate University Hospital.

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