The following is an excerpt from “Israel: Democracy, Race, Ethnicity, and More” (Fragments #2).
by Kohenet Keshira haLev Fife
Bruchah At Shekhinah, You who dwells within, and around and between,
You are present in these pages, and in the white fire we feel.
As we go from the book into the world, may it be that
Where we feel convicted, we remember humility;
If we feel reactive, we know how to slow down;
When overwhelm sets in, we move with gentleness.
And from our broken hearts, may pure love flow.
May the depth of these images awaken our bodies’ knowing;
May this wisdom inspire us towards curiosity and reflection;
May these stories tenderizse our hearts to hold complicated truths;
May all that seems incomprehensible compel us to reach
for You and for each other.
You who makes peace in the heavens, may you bring peace to us,
and may you bring peace through us.
KOHENET KESHIRA HALEV FIFE (she/they) is a Kohenet (Hebrew Priestess) and a bi-racial, queer Jewish person who delights in serving as davennatrix (shlichat tzibbur), lifespiral ceremony/ritual creatrix, facilitator, liturgist, and songstress. She serves as Founding Kohenet of Kesher Pittsburgh and Program Director of beloved, and also enjoys working with the Institute for Jewish Spirituality, the Jewish Learning Collaborative, Kirva, and the Avodah Institute for Social Change. www.keshirahalev.com
