Lev B’Lev — Heart to Heart
In Judaism, being in community is integral to the landscape of our Peoplehood. Across generations, we have gathered in circles of conversation—not only to wrestle with difficult questions but also to work together to solve problems, support one another through challenging times, and uplift each other in ways that fill us with hope, even in times of great difficulty. It is in this way—through listening deeply, questioning with integrity, and encouraging each other’s courage—that we embody our shared story as a People.
Together, we will seek connection and comfort, build a foundation of perseverance, and ground ourselves in our shared values, gently sharing our individual perspectives and holding fast to our unwavering love for our People.
We will begin this Circle as we enter the Hebrew month of Elul—a sacred season of reflection, introspection, and preparation of the heart for the High Holidays.
What to Expect
Our time together will follow the Courage & Renewal® approach, created by Parker J. Palmer and the Center for Courage & Renewal. This approach is guided by Touchstones—gentle but clear agreements that help us create and hold “safe enough” space for honest sharing and deep listening.
In this space:
• We speak from the heart and listen deeply to one another.
• We are not here to fix, save, advise, or set each other straight.
• We honor each person’s inner wisdom, trusting that each of us has what we need within.
We will also engage with “Third Things”—poetry, music, quotes, and sacred texts—which serve as mirrors and windows into our own hearts, inviting us into deeper reflection and honest conversation.
Why We Gather
With an open heart, I invite you—my Jewish community, near and far, and those who walk alongside us in support during these uncertain and emotionally charged times—to join in this monthly gathering of hearts. This will be a place of friendship, reflection, and unity in a space where we can share our truths and consider how to live our values in amidst changing tides. And, if we find that the times call for it, we may gather more often.
As our sages remind us:
“Kol Yisrael arevim zeh bazeh” — All of Israel is responsible for one another. (Talmud, Shevuot 39a)
This timeless teaching calls us to strengthen one another and hold fast to our sacred responsibility as a People, especially in questioning times.
May our coming together sustain our hope, deepen our perseverance, and help us remember that we are never alone.
ברוך אתה עמו יבשלים
Blessed are You who shelters Your people in peace
Additional information about the facilitator:
Lori grew up in the Washington, D.C. Jewish Community, active in BBYO in her teen years. She has been a Jewish Communal Professional for much of her career. Her work has included Youth Directing, Field-worker for United Synagogue Youth Seaboard Region, several Jewish Summer Camps as Assistant and Associate Director, and Hillel International as Director of a peer relationship outreach program. Lori also taught in a local synagogue, and served as a lay leader on synagogue and organizational board of directors. She loves engaging in all things Jewish and with all those who seek to be in conversation with Jewish history, culture, traditions, and current issues facing our communities. She is a certified leadership coach, retreat and workshop facilitator, and an experiential educator – focusing on how lived and generational experiences impact our choices and lives.
Please reach out to me with any questions, and I welcome you to share this opportunity with friends, colleagues, and neighbors.
I look forward to being with you.
With Gratitude,
Lori Yadin – Independent Courage & Renewal Facilitator
Founder, Create Safe Space, Inc., and The Benevolent Community Initiative
