Resources

The Inside Out Wisdom and Action (IOWA) Project works closely with organizers, rabbis and activists on the front lines of communities needing to rethink how we live and work in this new reality of global pandemic. We are seeing how people are shaken by the rapid shift in how the institutions we rely on - workplaces, schools, transportation systems—are needing to radically alter the way they function. The Mussar trait of Bitachon—Trust, is more elusive, and yet, more needed now than ever. How can we tap into the deep wells of nourishment that come from trust when the world is changing so rapidly? Our ability to trust and to invite others to trust will be key to staying grounded and offering a hand to those around us in this time of need. It will be key to us having the moral imagination to envision and advocate for a more equitable and compassionate world during and after this crisis. In this one-hour session we will study and discuss Jewish sources on Bitachon/Trust and try out a Mussar practice designed to develop trust. Learn more about The IOWA Project at InsideOutWisdomAndAction.org

Rabbi David Jaffe teaches on the use of truth and truth-telling as a personal and external spiritual practice.

Cheshbon HaNafesh/Soul Accounting is one of the most time-tested of Mussar practices. By taking a clear, honest look at our own lives we can identify otherwise hidden opportunities for growth and change. This clarity helps us meet challenging situations with joy and confidence. In these turbulent times we may feel overwhelmed and powerless. The Cheshbon HaNefesh practice helps cultivate a sense of agency and reminds us that change is always possible. This session will explore the role of the Cheshbon HaNefesh in Mussar theories of growth, and will include models and suggestions for practice. Rabbi David Jaffe is the author of Changing the World from the Inside Out: A Jewish Approach to Personal and Social Change, winner of the 2016 National Jewish Book Award for Contemporary Jewish Life. He is the founder of Inside-Out Wisdom, which helps, individuals and organizations apply Jewish wisdom to challenges of leadership, social change and communal life. David has taught at the TMI Kallot and led other webinars and programs for TMI.