A HINDU BLESSING FOR ELECTION WEEK

As we wait for the election to be called, I can feel excitement begin to push out anxiety.

During my childhood, my parents would always tell me that, during my lifetime, there would probably be both a woman and a Jew elected to the presidency. And, I, naively, believed them. Well, this election will not meet either goal – but it certainly feels like one giant step in the right direction.

Potentially: A female vice president. A Jewish second gentleman. A president, while white, Catholic, and male, who has forged deep, meaningful partnerships with men and women of different backgrounds. I’m giving myself permission to start to celebrate this Shabbat. While my parents’ childhood predictions still have not come to fruition, they seem closer and also less urgent.

This Shabbat, as Jews and Americans, let’s embrace that a candidate with Hindu heritage, is likely ascending to Vice Presidency. This level of faith acceptance, as my grandfather would say, is good for the Jews. It is good for all Americans.

Kamala Harris was particularly close to her Hindu mother. In honor of Shyamala Gopalan Harris, who I know would have been so proud today, I share this Hindu blessing.

Blessing of Love
Fill the Heart with the oil of love.
Place in it the wick of single-pointed mind.
Light it with the Knowledge of Truth and remove
the darkness of ignorance around you.
Just as one lamp can light many lamps; let each
youth kindle this Light in many hearts.