How to Observe Jewish Holidays Away From Home
Connecting With Traditions
Jewish Holidays are some of the most important and meaningful days in the Jewish calendar. Despite the absence of being able to physically be at home with family for these holidays, there are still meaningful ways to celebrate them.
Plan Ahead for Virtual Celebrations
Make sure to let your family and friends know ahead of time that you will be unable to be home with them for the holidays. Plan a virtual holiday celebration. Try setting up a Zoom or Facetime call with family and friends for the holidays. This way, you can still come together for special holiday meals and even get to spend quality time together.
Stay Connected to Practices and Traditions
It's important to stay connected to traditions and practices even if you're not in your usual environment. If you do not practice all of the traditional customs, this may be a great opportunity to deepen you religious practice of the holiday.
Consult Religious Texts
Take time to review religious texts in preparation for the holiday. Read the story of the holiday, the relevant psalms, and passages of scripture. Consider writing your own reflections or prayers and adding them to what you read.
Let Nature Connect You
Incorporate appreciation for the natural world into your holiday. Get outside, observe the changes in the natural world that this holiday brings about, and explore what those changes can mean for you.
Bring Your Own Creativity
When away from home, utilizing the resources available to you can have a great impact on your holiday experience. See if there are holiday events happening near you or any local synagogues which may be doing online services. You could even cook your families favorite dishes to honor the holiday. There are plenty of ways you can let your creativity influence your holiday experience.
Stay Open and Connected
The key to maintaining some sense of normalcy while observing the holidays away from home is to be open and connected. Openness to new practices and experiences during this time can open up new angles or points of view which can add to the richness of the holiday. And staying connected with family and friends helps to keep up the continuity that makes each holiday special.