October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The Actual Dance tells a story of MY journey in response to Susan’s diagnosis of stage 3 breast cancer in 2000
In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month I post a blog each day with a reflection about breast cancer. The reflections all stem from something in the play. (All quotes are from lines in the play).
Day 8: Music Heals “It is the tradition in our Reform Jewish synagogue for the Rabbi to read out loud at Kabbalat Shabbat, Friday night services, the names of congregants who are ill. The congregation then chants a prayer asking God for the healing of body and soul of those who are in need of such healing.” The Actual Dance
There are rituals in the Jewish community to support people who are ill and their families. The one I love most is the chanting of the Misheberach at our Friday night services. Even though Susan and I always attended Friday night services, we never had one of our names read on the list until Susan’s breast cancer. Hearing Susan’s name read out loud for the first time was an emotional experience for me. It reminded me of how fragile life is and made me wonder what it might be like sitting in that same seat alone, without her. Yet it was comforting to know that everyone around us was on our side, also thinking about and asking God for the healing of Susan’s body and spirit.
The Misheberach tune we like to chant is the one written by the late Debbie Friedman. You can hear her sing it here.
Stat of the Day: Not a number – but significant research that supports the premise that singing and listening to music reduces cortisol in a person’s system and supports greater recovery and immunity. Music Heals
Task of the Day: Listen to music. Music can calm the mind and open the heart. By itself and especially in quiet places it can transform your heart and brings peace even in the most troubled times. Check out some of my favorites: Snatam Kaur Shastro’s Shamans Healing Loreena Mckennitt
Resource of the Day: Check out “Thinking Pink: Songs for Breast Cancer Awareness”
The Actual Dance: Performances. Donate.
In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month I post a blog each day with a reflection about breast cancer. The reflections all stem from something in the play. (All quotes are from lines in the play).
Day 8: Music Heals “It is the tradition in our Reform Jewish synagogue for the Rabbi to read out loud at Kabbalat Shabbat, Friday night services, the names of congregants who are ill. The congregation then chants a prayer asking God for the healing of body and soul of those who are in need of such healing.” The Actual Dance
There are rituals in the Jewish community to support people who are ill and their families. The one I love most is the chanting of the Misheberach at our Friday night services. Even though Susan and I always attended Friday night services, we never had one of our names read on the list until Susan’s breast cancer. Hearing Susan’s name read out loud for the first time was an emotional experience for me. It reminded me of how fragile life is and made me wonder what it might be like sitting in that same seat alone, without her. Yet it was comforting to know that everyone around us was on our side, also thinking about and asking God for the healing of Susan’s body and spirit.
The Misheberach tune we like to chant is the one written by the late Debbie Friedman. You can hear her sing it here.
Stat of the Day: Not a number – but significant research that supports the premise that singing and listening to music reduces cortisol in a person’s system and supports greater recovery and immunity. Music Heals
Task of the Day: Listen to music. Music can calm the mind and open the heart. By itself and especially in quiet places it can transform your heart and brings peace even in the most troubled times. Check out some of my favorites: Snatam Kaur Shastro’s Shamans Healing Loreena Mckennitt
Resource of the Day: Check out “Thinking Pink: Songs for Breast Cancer Awareness”
The Actual Dance: Performances. Donate.
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