I remember reading portions of Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl at different times, but I never finished the book. However, recently, eight and a half months after the passing of Jan, the book came up for discussion in one of my groups. Frankl's theory of logotherapy, which derives from the Greek word for "meaning," centers around the idea that the primary human drive is not pleasure, as Freud believed, but rather the search for what gives life meaning. I now have a framework for my life without Jan.
Day of Action On Climate Crisis
Reform Movement's Power for Purpose Campaign
Estimated reading time: 2 minutes, 35 secondsI recently attended the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism’s Day of Action on the climate emergency as a Temple Sha’arey Shalom representative. This was my first advocacy trip to DC in almost five years, during which I advocated for funding for affordable housing for people with disabilities and people experiencing homelessness. This time, I was advocating for climate action as part of the Power for Purpose campaign of the Reform Movement. I had the opportunity to meet with staff from Senator Cory Booker and Congressman Chris Smith and later with Congressmen Donald Payne, Jr. via Zoom.
A recent report in the New York Times highlighted the urgent need for significant action to address climate change. According to forecasters at the World Meteorological Organization, global temperatures will soar to record highs over the next five years, driven by human-caused warming and a climate pattern known as El Niño. “This will have far-reaching repercussions for health, food security, water management, and the environment,” the head of the meteorological organization said.
During the event, two speakers challenged us to think differently about the work we need to do. LaTosha Brown, Co-founder of the Black Voters Matter Fund and the Black Voters Capacity Building Institute encouraged us to levitate above public conversations that do not focus on solving problems and see the big picture. Reverend Senator Raphael Warnock from Georgia challenged us to view our work as an effort to redeem the soul of America, which the rise of antisemitism, racism, sexism, and other forms of hatred has damaged.
While navigating the Halls of Congress, I was moved by both messages as they spoke to my soul. They illuminated my journey through grief as a widow and granted me a fresh outlook on life. Though one cannot levitate, I have learned to transcend daily struggles and gain a deeper understanding of the world and my place in it. My faith has taught me the value of each person’s soul, and my mourning has inspired me to seek personal meaning and purpose. I now grasp how I can contribute to the redemption of America’s soul.
As the climate emergency continues to have a more significant impact, I am compelled to reach out for support from my peers. I plan to utilize this website and various social media platforms to spread awareness and ask for assistance through calls, texts, and emails. By working together, we can take the necessary steps toward implementing practical solutions and action on climate change. We must prioritize this issue and work towards a sustainable future for all.
The Jan Lilien Education Fund sponsors ongoing sustainability and environmental awareness programs. Gifts made this month; I will match dollar-for-dollar. All donations are tax-deductible.
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Man's Search for Meaning
I have faced many challenges in my lifetime, but losing my beloved was the most difficult one. Thankfully, Rabbi Dr. Renee Edelman offered me guidance and support, which gave me hope and taught me how to live life to the fullest, even after my loss.
Throughout my life, faith has been my guiding force. It has empowered me to persevere through challenges and achieve personal growth. As a result, I have embraced life to the fullest, cherished meaningful relationships, and strived to impact the world around me positively.
Warning: Hot Summer Ahead!
Reform Movement's Power for Purpose Campaign
Estimated reading time: 2 minutes, 35 secondsAccording to an analysis in The Atlantic “Not a sliver of the U.S. should expect a cool summer, according to the NOAA Climate Prediction Center’s latest three-month outlook: The Eastern Seaboard, Texas, and parts of the Southwest have the highest odds of seeing overall temperatures elevated over the season. Other areas are at risk of more extreme heat, especially parts of the High Plains experiencing prolonged, severe drought, such as Kansas and Oklahoma. When the land lacks moisture and vegetation, “all the energy from the sun goes into heating the ground and then the near-surface temperature,” says Jon Gottschalck, who runs the operational-prediction branch of the CPC.
