Once again we celebrate Pesach (Passover), the holiday commemorating the freedom of the ancient Hebrews from slavery in Egypt-in Hebrew, Mitzrayim, “the narrow place,” the place of limitation and barriers to who we truly can be-then going through the Sea of Reeds, and landing on the other side of the shore to freedom-the fulfillment of our fullest potentials. This story resonates throughout the ages, as part of the universal story of a people attaining freedom, as individuals and as a nation. There have been hundreds of variations of the traditional Haggadah (the order of service) that included the stories of other peoples and of other nations-the Freedom Seder drawn up by Arthur Waskow, Seders from secular Israeli kibbutzim, etc.

As we enjoy the Seder and the company of our friends and family, let us remember the lessons of the Seder, and apply the to our personal lives and to our communities; may we attain freedom from whatever Mitzrayim we face.

I continue my tradition of writing resolutions for Pesach, thus:

I will continue to conduct myself with self-love, self esteem, and self respect, emphasizing by positive traits, speaking and thinking positively about myself and my life, challenging all negative thoughts and feelings.

I will continue such spiritual-psychological practices as Torah study, prayer, meditation, affirmations, and journaling.

I will continue to be faithful to Jewish religion and tradition.

I will continue to be loyal and active in my various social and political causes.

I will be proficient in foreign languages.

I will continue the art and business of writing, with seminars, readings, etc.

I will continue to seek out all available venues of education, such as galleries, theaters, museums, libraries, etc.