Wednesday, April 14, 2010

Taking some time

My father, Moshe ben Akiva and Devora Breindel passed away on 24 Nissan (April 8) at 2 a.m.

I was at his side and it was one of the most painful and astounding experiences of my life.

Judaism has its own specific laws and practices regarding mourning. Today, I entered the Shloshim period. As far as I can tell, there are no specific laws or recommendations about the use of Facebook or blogging during this period, but I have decided not to post until the Shloshim period is over. I need the time for reflection and recovery, to turn inward. The joy and interactions of my virtual world do not seem appropriate at this time.

Before I take leave, I wanted to thank you all for your support, good wishes and prayers for myself and my family at this time. It's a modern, hi-tech world, and I have received many "virtual shiva calls" through the blog, Facebook, e-mail and SMS. My friends enveloped me with their love as they met me at and then took me back to the airport, escorted me to the cemetery, fed me, came to visit me in New York and at home in Israel, cleaned my home, and shopped for me. I will always be grateful.

I have much to say and will be back after the Shloshim. In the meantime I wish you all the best of what life has to offer you: good health and all the time in the world with those you love.

10 comments:

Leora said...

Best wishes to you, Baila, and your family at this difficult time. Hamakom Yenahem.

Yes, one appreciates Judaism when unfortunately one has to suffer terrible loss. Do what you need to do.

Unknown said...

ברוך דיין אמת

proudmommy0f4 said...

Hamakom Yehachem Osach B'Soch Sh'ar Avley Zion V'Yerushalaim

Commenter Abbi said...

Thinking of you Baila. המקום ינחם אתכם בתוך שער אבלי ציון

Anonymous said...

Thinking of you and your family. We'll be glad to see you back online but meanwhile do what you feel is right.

Minnesota Mamaleh said...

thinking of you, and sending good thoughts

Anonymous said...

I wish you a long life.

tzippy said...

dear baila,i have been following your blog for quite awhile,im so sorry to hear of the passing of your dear father,and im happy that you were able to get to the states ontime to spend his lastbit of time together,im sure he knew and was grateful to be with you,what a zechut,take your time grieving,there are no set rules or time that it is supposed to take,we will be waiting patiently for your return to blogging,may hashem comfort you and your family withthe mourners of yerushalayim,may your family be blessed with good health

HSaboMilner said...

so sorry for your loss.

RivkA with a capital A said...

Baruch Dayan Emet.

My thoughts are with you at this time.

Hamakom y'nachem otach.....