I recently received a book from my family that combines two interests: walking and reading. The book, "In Praise of Walking" by Shane O'Mara, celebrates the joys, health benefits, and mechanics of walking. It emphasizes the importance of getting out of our chairs and discovering a happier, healthier, more creative self.
Why Do I Wake Up Early?
Routine and Ritual Are Crucial to Managing My Grief!
Estimated reading time: 1 minute, 58 seconds
My friends have been questioning my early morning routine since I’m unemployed. However, I’ve had this habit since my younger years because I highly value structure and daily rituals.
My grandmother raised me while my mother dealt with medical issues. She instilled in me the importance of being an early riser, believing it would increase my chances of success even if I weren’t necessarily the most intelligent person in the room. I’ll never honestly know if her advice was right, but it has undoubtedly impacted my life.
When my sons were teenagers, I got into the habit of waking up at 5:30 am. This gave me enough time to make breakfast, catch up on the news, and organize my day before waking up my wife and sons. It was tough to leave Jan in bed, but I kept up this routine for many years, even after my sons became adults. I continued waking up early in 2019, even when I wasn’t working full-time.
I became her full-time caregiver when my wife, Jan, was diagnosed with lymphoma in August 2019. Early mornings were a way for me to cope with the emotional stress and strain. I knew I needed to get into a routine when I became a widow. I continued to get up early, even on days when it was more like sleepwalking because I didn’t always get a good night’s sleep.
I understood the significance of ritual and began attending Friday services at Temple Sha’arey Shalom every week. Over the past two years, I have only missed three services, and two of those absences were due to my commitment to helping neighbors in need through mitzvahs.
Having a routine and daily rituals can help us overcome grief and live life to the fullest. This is why I woke up early today, not because of birds and worms.
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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In Praise of Walking
Faith is All I Needed!
Routine and Ritual Are Crucial to Managing My Grief!
Estimated reading time: 1 minute, 58 seconds
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.
