Zen Jenn

Sorry for the gap in postings. I just returned from our vacation to Cabo San Lucas!

So, I left off on August 2, 2008!

The weekend was busy with errands and packing, so I tried to cram in a few "new" things from ideas people sent me. A few of my friends suggested I try to meditate. For those of you who don't know me well, this would not be an easy accomplishment because I can't stop fidgeting or thinking about things!

But, tonight I tried it. While not completely successful, I was able to sit in complete silence and focus on my breathing...for about 15 minutes! (My colleague at work gave me some pointers on breathing techniques...thanks April!)

I definitely want to try this again. I really do think it would be beneficial to someone like me...and I did have a realization about myself that I want to explore further.

Pay to Pray?

Today I wanted to do something that would actually expand my understanding and knowledge of the world.  I have a co-worker who is Jewish and fascinating. During a conversation about the clients we work with, she made a comment about synagogue membership.

Intrigued, I followed up with some questions and learned that most Jews are required to pay substantial membership fees to join a synagogue (in addition to paying tithe, or ma'aserot)--a concept completely foreign to me. 

At first, this whole concept was crazy, but then learned that Jewish law forbids carrying or exchanging money on Shabbat, the Sabbath, making it a sin to tithe during the service.

To understand this practice a bit more, I did some research.

Historically, tithes were given to the Levites, the tribe in charge of the Temple and the ancient ritual practices. Because the Levites were unable to grow food, they were supported by the community.

“And to the Levites I hereby give all the tithes in Israel as their share in return for the service that they perform,” (Numbers 18:21). “But do not neglect the [family of the] Levite in your community, for he has no hereditary portion as you have” (Deuteronomy 14:27).

Today, the synagogue staff is considered the modern equivalent of the Levites and Kohanes, or priests, of ancient Israel. Congregations need a spiritual leader, usually a rabbi, to perform religious services and ceremonies and to provide guidance. The executive directors and administrators are the modern day Levites who maintain the synagogue. In return for providing these services, the community supports their synagogue staff through dues. And paying a membership represents a deep commitment to the Jewish community and faith.

I also learned that synagogues sell tickets to High Holy Day services. The worship services are free but they can only take place because there is financial support from a community that pays the rent, utilities, salaries and all that is needed to create the worship experience. For non-members, a portion of these costs are included in the price of the tickets. Synagogue membership includes the cost of High Holy Day tickets.

While I am not sure I truly understand this practice, I found this practice to be very interesting and thought-provoking. Wow...

Coasting on Empty/Ambushed by Child

Not a very eventful day. I am busy getting ready for our trip to Cabo. But, this evening I had to run my nephews, Jake and Josh, out to Hickory to drop them off with Daina R. While on the way, my car ran out of gas. This is the first time I have ever run out of gas while driving. Luckily, this happened at the top of the hill (above Old Fort), so we coasted all the way down the hill, to our exit, and right into a gas station. Who doesn't believe in miracles?

Another first today: I was ambushed by Sophie!  When I went to pick her up at camp today, she and her friend Cheyenne ran up and asked if Cheyenne could spend the night (since this "would be the ONLY time ever that she could"). I immediately told Sophie I needed to meet and talk to Cheyenne's parents before she could come over. Well, boy was I surprised when I learned that Cheyenne's dad was there and had been waiting over 40 minutes to talk to me. Apparently, Sophie and Chey had borrowed a counselor's cell phone, called Chey's dad, asked him if she could spend the night and if he'd bring her clothes to wear. And he did!

Well, the little conspirators are asleep upstairs now! Maybe I should go double check...I am not sure I trust them!

Aye Carambola!

I think I found the fruit Eve picked and ate. Today I tasted a starfruit (also known as carambola). It was pretty tasty, like a cross between a pear and a grape. Crunchy with a sweet/sour taste. I strongly recommend trying one.

Chocolate HEAVEN!

Today was one of the BEST days of my life. I went to the French Broad Chocolate Bar in Asheville and left with a chocolate hangover. I met Erin H. there for a work meeting. We had Frigid Dark Chocolate drinks (yes, dark chocolate). On top of that, the manager gave us free samples of hand made specialty chocolates. This is my new favorite spot on earth!

Keyless Entry

Spent the day in Greensboro attending a meeting. Since this was work related, I had to rent a car. When I checked in at Enterprise, the attendant handed me a small remote. I asked for the key and was informed I was getting a brand new vehicle that did not require any key to operate. At 6:00 AM, this was a bit much to comprehend. 

I was able to open the car without a problem, but figuring out how to start that sucker was a huge challenge. I felt like such an idiot! Eventually, I managed to get the engine running. Soon, I was driving a keyless car for the very first (and hopefully last) time! I need a key!!!! 

O'Natuals

A new restaurant, O'Naturals, opened up this week in Asheville. Its a new healthy organic "franchise" started by the makers of Stonyfield Farms yogurt. Matt and I decided to go on a date and eat there. While it wasn't ground breaking, the food was good and decently priced. We'd definitely eat there again. I had a spicy Thai salad. Next time I want to try a flat bread pizza.