“One is obligated to recite a blessing for the bad just as one recites a blessing for the good, as it is stated (in Deuteronomy 6:5): ‘And you shall love the ETERNAL your God with all your heart.’” (Babylonian Talmud, Berakhot 54a)
Our sages read the source text from Deuteronomy expansively: loving God with ALL your heart means with everything you’ve got, in good times and bad.
While we are still faced with many challenges, I think we would all agree that this Thanksgiving feels much more “thankful” than last. Because of vaccines and better understanding of how COVID-19 is transmitted, many of us will be gathering in person with family and friends to celebrate the holiday.
The wisdom of the text from the Talmud reminds us that whatever comes our way, no matter how challenging or hopeful the moment is, we must find a way to say “thanks” with all of our might for the simple gift of being alive.
— Rabbi Yoshi Zweiback
