I often ask myself, how do Israelis maintain balance in life? Israeli life is filled with political unrest and social stress in addition to work and family transitions that have their own challenging rhythms. So yes, how do Israelis do it? Come to the 2016 CCAR Convention (#CCAR16) from February 23-28, and you will learn how Israelis do it.
Join your colleagues as we explore the various ways that Israeli society responds to the question, “How do Israelis do it?” How do Israelis cope with the ongoing psycho-social-spiritual battery of one on one physical combat and warfare? How do Israelis cope with significant physical injury and post traumatic stress?
Learn from shared real experience and select a couple sessions from these options:
- Meet Etgarmin heroes and learn of their life challenges.
- Dialogue with JDC representative who guide the Ruderman Disability Awareness and Inclusion program.
- Interface with the leadership of the Israel Center for the Treatment of Psycho-trauma and learn how they frame their values and practice.
- Examine the creative contemporary healing function of Mikvah in Israeli society.
You could walk or run the Tel Aviv Marathon, half marathon, 10K, or 5K. Every rabbi who participates in the run/walk has the opportunity raise significant money to benefit Reform Judaism throughout Israel. Together we will make a significant statement about our commitment to Israel, while supporting it financially. CCAR is also offering a scholarship, applicable 
toward airfare and/or hotel costs, of up to 10% of the amount raised in your name.
Or, you could select another option and participate in the wellness track, which includes early morning meditation, yoga, or Tai Chi by the sea, followed by a face to face psycho-social-spiritual conversation. You will walk away refreshed and renewed by the energy and passion of Israeli social services that speak with heart and soul.
On a personal note, after the conference, I’m riding with the Riding4Reform cycling experience that allows you to experience the land and people close up and personal. It is also a wonderful way to contribute to the Israel Movement for Progressive Judaism. Find me at riding4reform.org to sponsor me – or join me!
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Rabbi Karen Fox has been named Rabbi Emerita at Wilshire Boulevard Temple in Los Angeles, California.
One reply on “How Do Israelis Do It? – Getting Ready for #CCAR16”
Does your congregation still pay for you to attend conventions, including in Israel? Just curious, since mine doesn’t (since retirement); and I’m wondering whst the situation is for most retired rabbis. It seems to me that retired rabbis would have something valuable to contribute to theitr younger colleagues.