Last night the skies were filled with lightening, and most of us were startled by the roar of thunder. For me and our cats, the event was more than jarring. The cats went nuts, and I found myself rattled by the storm for at least 20 minutes.
There is something hauntingly beautiful about thunderstorms. The synchronized rhythms of light and sound combine with the constant patter of the rain to create a symphony from the heavens. If only my cats could have had this kind of appreciation for the beauty of such an experience.
As Jews, we have a long tradition of recognizing the beauty of natural events (even those that are unsettling). The tool we use to articulate such recognition is called a blessing, and we have a blessing for everything. The blessings for thunder and lightning are as follows:
Upon hearing lightning:
Blessed are You, Eternal our God, Ruler of the Universe,
Who makes the Work of Creation.
Upon hearing thunder:
Blessed are You, Eternal our God, Ruler of the Universe,
Whose strength and might fills the world.
Through blessings like these, we take an opportunity to recognize God’s presence in the world. Through blessings like these, we affirm our faith and confirm our uniquely Jewish perspective on life and the world around us.
The forecast for today and the days ahead continue to include thunderstorms. As they descend upon us, try to take a moment and appreciate the beauty and power they hold. For even if they do not feel like it in the moment, they are worthy of our blessings.
L’Shalom – Steve