When we talk about the tree of life, this is what we are talking about. We are talking about a life lived deeply rooted in the experience yet spreading out to as far as the sky will reach. It’s a life not spent only looking to grow mentally, spiritually, physically, and emotionally but also spent looking around us and noticing what needs work. It’s the external and internal worlds carefully balanced to create a life that is solid yet inspiring.

Do you know what else we refer to as the tree of life? The Torah! Why? Because it’s got it all in there. The acts of sacrifice and taking care of the stranger, the widow, the orphan, the mourner, your brother and sister and parents. We have journeys that bring us growth, commitments and struggles, wrestling and learning. All a part of our roots and wings.

Life is not about attaining wisdom (in any form) on our own for then we are nothing more than “an isolated tree in arid land.” This means that whatever journey we are on to the place we have assigned ourselves to reach, we cannot forget about the importance of being aware of others. And being kind.

Roots and wings (branches and leaves), this is our compass for living. May we all embody the tree of life, deeply rooted, forever searching!

Love you all!

Rabbi Gabi