Back to Brooklyn

Pesach 5776 in Midwood was a smashing success for the second year in a row! Five sojourners came together for a literal exodus – since our hosts were moving the very next week! Family by blood, marriage, and proximity were the bonds of our small gathering. I went early and helped set up to the very appropriate 10 Commandments in the background. The food was prepared, the house cleaned, the wine (and potato vodka – per our Estonian host) ready, the table set, plague props out, Passover plate filled, and haggadot available. My clarinet was put together, music practiced, Seder outline prepped, and the guests were dressed for a holiday and ready to feast (post-slavery).

First things first: When my cousin arrived from the Bronx, we called her family in Kansas and met our (then) eight-day-old cousin/niece. My cousin’s mom, who celebrated in Midwood with us last year, was with her new granddaughter for the holiday this year.

The Seder was lively, and included music, dramatic telling of the maggid, rabbinic tales, acting out of the plagues (with props), hearty singing (of the blessings and traditional songs), responsive reading of the Hallel psalms, lots of laughing, along with toasts galore and rapid-fire conversation. Each person shared stories of Seders past, imparted the wisdom of various interpretations, and enjoyed the familiarity of the service and meal. Potato kugel cupcakes, roasted vegetables, turkey, roasted potatoes, homemade Rice Krispie treats, and Passover jellies made their way onto our plates. The charoset was delicious, the horseradish root hot, and the wine rich. This year was, as my dad always said growing up, the Jewish Thanksgiving feast to be remembered.

During the week I attended three other Seders (I led one and played music at another), but the small gathering on Pesach holds a special significance. Whether I am with my immediate family, extended family, friends, or some combination of the three, the feeling of home based in a wonderfully deep, rich, familiar, central holiday allows me to be reminded of the greatness of G!d and his works. In a small group, I can share these moments of joy and insight more freely as part of the Seder. Perhaps during Passover, my exuberance feels completely useful. I certainly experienced that this year.

The Hallel psalms are some of my favorites, particularly Psalm 114. The Great Hallel, Psalm 136, is another favorite. My smile grows as I participate in the reading of these words – praising G!d for his mighty deeds which saved the Israelites and brought them out of slavery to the Egyptians. The people who went into Egypt as a small family became a great nation.

In a few weeks I will once again visit the land of my people – Israel. I’m ready for the next part of the story.