Embracing Renewal and Reflection in the Light of the New Year

By Julia Loeb, WLCJ International President

This week, as we step into the new secular year, many of us will use this time for deep reflection and renewal. The shortest day has passed —Shabbat in Washington, D.C. already starts five minutes later than last week — and slowly, the light increases, reminding us of the endless cycle of growth and rebirth.  It’s a perfect moment to talk about resolutions and self-care, especially in the context of our Jewish traditions and this week’s Parashah.

Shemot, the first Parashah in the book of Exodus, marks a significant transition. It’s a story of a new beginning, much like our New Year’s resolutions. It speaks of the Israelites’ journey from oppression to liberation and prompts us to consider our personal journeys and how we can improve ourselves in the coming year.

In this context, let’s think of our resolutions not just as goals or tasks, but as steps toward personal growth. This is a good opportunity to take a step back and examine challenges that we face. It could be stress and how we react to it, or perhaps we often neglect our own needs while caring for others. This year let’s commit to overcoming these difficulties.

For me, self-care is a crucial aspect of this journey. It’s often overlooked, but taking care of ourselves enables us to better care for others. As Jewish women, we often juggle roles in our families, communities, and professions. It’s easy to forget that to nurture others effectively, we must first nurture ourselves.

Incorporating self-care into our daily lives is essential. It could be something as simple as meditating, taking a few minutes each day to breathe deeply, or engaging in a hobby that brings us joy. Remember, self-care isn’t selfish; it’s fundamental to our well-being, and allows us to be a better friend, spouse, parent, and colleague.

The winter solstice is a reminder of the power of light and the importance of patience. Just as the days slowly become brighter, our efforts towards self-improvement and care will gradually illuminate our lives. It teaches us that growth is an incremental process, and that’s okay.

As we embark on this new year, let’s embrace the lessons from Shemot. Let’s embrace change and be courageous in overcoming our fears, insecurities, or old habits. Let’s be like Moses, who, despite his initial reluctance, rose to lead and embrace his role in the liberation of his people. We too can lead and inspire in our own lives, in big and small ways. 

Later this month, 25 women will move forward on their personal journeys at the first Women’s League Leadership Institute in four years. The training in this program has been instrumental to the growth and development of so many women. I cannot recommend it highly enough.  There is still space available if you would like to make that choice for yourself and join us.

I wish all of you strength, patience, and light in all your endeavors. May your resolutions carry you forward and may your self-care practices fill you with renewed energy and joy. Here’s to a year of growth, learning, radiance, and peace!

Shabbat Shalom and Happy New Year!

Julia Loeb
WLCJ International President
jloeb@wlcj.org