Ric and I are reading the mediation's together. Today's suggestion was to sculpt or paint our vision for our spiritual future. Perfect for Ric....not so perfect for me. So I thought I would write and ask for some feedback. I do not paint or scuplt, but I could use own self as a canvas. I could use my hair.
My vision for my future includes deepening my spiritual path and I am beginning to wonder if I have the courage to "wear" that deepening in public. Am I willing to cover my hair...at least in part, on Shabbat
?
I love the look, and often think this would be a great way to wear long hair in the summer, but am I willing to "sculpt" this vision in a public setting?
Women cover their hair NOT out of a sense of obligation for the RULES, but out of a sense of personal honor. Yes, this is about modesty, but it is more about honoring a personal spiritual journey. But this is a struggle for me. What would this say about me to the world, and what would this say to me about my own inner sense of self?
Would this set me a part in some way, making me less modern or accessible or liberal? What does this say about a spiritual journey in this new life in a Jewish marriage? It seems like such a small thing, and yet it feels huge.
Comments? Really...comments?
I have always had an attraction to the snood, though I have never worn a full one. I've had a couple of big clips that had bows and a small sood to hold the hair in some 20 yrs ago. Still, I think the 40s style snood rocks!
ReplyDeleteWell, new rituals are always part of a new journey. What would it say or do to contribute or take away from your new journey? I would think nothing since you are the dynamic, amazing woman that you are. It may encourage others to do the same without the fear of losing themselves somehow in the process. What is the deeper meaning to you?
ReplyDeleteAll that being said, I believe you are beautiful either way. However, as the woman I know and see, I don't see you as traditional in any sort. A compromise of wearing it on Shabbat may be a start to see if it suits you and your journey. It is a way to remind us of our covering in our homes, our faith, our spouses role, etc., but I don't think its meant to change the inner person; the core of who you are.
I do not think it has anything to do with who you are as a person or woman. As far as in public, you have done many expressions of your personality, individuality and self over the years and all seem to have been received relatively well in the circles I have seen you in. As a matter of fact they have been welcomed and expected because of the woman you are.
Dig deeper and evaluate whether or not your inner woman is interested in a new tradition. I don't think anyone will see you any differently, at least those of us that know you, because of who your inner woman is. For those that don't know you but may interact with you for the first time in a with a sood on, somehow, I just don't think the true spirit of the amazing woman I know would not show up. :-)
I watched a great new Oprah show where she interviewed a Chassidic community and with all of the covering the women do it does not at all seem to stifle their personalities or character.
Again, I come back to, what does it mean for you and what would it say? What do you want the world to see and hear about you? What would it change about you, if anything? What does God speak to you about the tradition and whether it is right for you. Personally, I have always seen you as a trailblazer not following any traditions however when it comes to faith, all bets are off. We all choose based on where our divinity, God, leader, etc., calls us...
Not sure if its what you wanted or helpful. Just the thoughts off of my tired brain at the end of my crazy day.
Love you!!!!
Lia