Friends, this is a quote from Batya Levine. Batya describes themselves as a “communal song leader, musician, a Jewish prayer leader, and cultural organizer. Today, we’ll hear a song Batya wrote for the Jewish festival Tu Bishvat. 

 

In ancient times, Tu Bishvat was recognized as a day when Jewish farmers would gather their crops at the beginning of the Israeli Spring. As was the custom, a portion of the produce would be given in the temple as a recognition that all things come from God. 

 

Later, Jewish people who were exiled–that is driven out from their homeland–would celebrate Tu Bishvat by eating a collection of nuts and fruit that could be obtained from Israel. It was a way of connecting their heart, mind, and body to the deep roots found in land, place, and people. 

 

Today, many in Jewish communities here on Maui and around the world observe Tu Bishvat as a day of ecological stewardship. Caring for the land and celebrating a Birthday of the Trees means thinking about the gifts that come–not from ourselves–but from the seed, the soil, the water, and the labor that produces and sustains life on our beautiful planet.

 

Now, let’s give space to Batya Levine to share their gifts with us. As the music plays, you may watch, or listen. Or if you feel safe, you may close your eyes to focus on the rich soundscape of this song. I invite you to let this song, Tu Bishvat, infuse you with breath, with space, with beauty, and with love–for yourself, for your peers, those you consider your friends–or not–and for our entire school ‘ohana. Let’s take a moment together … [play video]