What Comes First, Study or Action?

Happy Friday! I’m glad you’re here. I have so many things to say, but let’s just start with, THANK YOU for subscribing. The first newsletter got an awesome response, and I’m so grateful that you’ve decided to come along for the journey.

We are already about halfway through July and I’m officially halfway through my summer semester…both are pretty crazy to believe. One of my classes this summer is called “Applied Jewish Wisdom” and it basically exists to teach Jewish non-profit professionals who aren’t Rabbis how to bring Jewish texts to life in the workplace. For me, that’s what Springboard taught me (my first job at Hillel!) which I’ll be forever grateful for. But, this class has made me realize how much I missed looking at and talking about Jewish texts. On the first day our teacher shared this one with us:

This text resonated with me in many ways in that moment, especially as I reflect on my first year of graduate school. A year ago at this time, I was so ready to “study” - to be in the seat of the teacher. I had been in the “action” for three years - working. I was ready for a change and a new type of challenge. One year later, I found myself missing the “action.” I miss what it feels like to just have a job, and I definitely don’t want more homework. I’m tired of the “study” and I’m ready to be out again in the world learning from experience, and not learning from the textbook or the paper. We always want what we don’t have, right?

The last part of this text is key - “Study is greater because it leads to action.”  The study is necessary to successful action. The study is providing me the opportunity to add new tools to my toolbox. The study is teaching me how to manage multiple responsibilities and the stress and anxiety that comes with it. The study is teaching me discipline, knowledge, and grace. The action is happening amidst the chaos, and there is plenty of time for action.

The cool thing about Jewish texts is that when you take a step back, you don’t have to take this text as literal as it sounds. What is your version of “study” and “action?” Your study might be a practice - practicing a new skill, training for a race, building a yoga or meditation practice. The action is seeing your progress - the mile 6 that you didn’t think was possible, the pigeon pose that felt more stable this time. What is the step back in your own life that you might need to take to discover how this text applies to your reality?

So, as you prepare for your version of Shabbat this week, I offer round two of reflection questions for you:

1. Which is greater, study or action?

2. What is your version of “study” right now? Is it a peaceful practice for you? If not, what could you do to promote more calm?

3. What is your version of “action” right now? There are so many things happening in our world that your version of action might promote. How can you take action and share your passions with your community or beyond?

4. Study and action both involve a lot of work. How can you create a moment of pause amidst your version of study and action this Shabbat?

I invite you to have fun with these questions. Ask them during your Shabbat dinner, call a friend and discuss, or light a candle and journal with yourself! You can even share your answers on social media and tag @ethicallyemily ~ I'd love to know how you're reflecting.

Wishing y’all the sweetest Shabbat, full of study, action, rest, and everything inbetween. Until two Fridays from now…Shabbat Shalom!

Ethically,

Emily