Parashat Emor 5783

by Rabbi Ellen S. Wolintz-Fields

The word Emor, which is the name of this week’s Torah Reading, means speak. I am sure we all have someone in our life, who no matter what topic is being discussed has something to say. Is what is said always appropriate, applicable, or, informative? Or do some people just speak to hear themselves speak? Then there are people in our lives, I hope, who we know, that when that person does speak, you know it is important, because they do not speak just for the sake of speaking, but because they truly have something important to say. Which kind of person do you prefer to converse with? Which kind of person are you? Perhaps it depends on the situation, if someone speaks often, or holds back. When someone speaks, do you always respond? Active listening is also very important. One of the greatest gifts one can give to someone else is the acknowledgement that what was said, was actually heard. May we both speak and listen with strength and courage. Chazak v’Ematz – Be Strong and Courageous!