Hi Rabbi Adir. I really enjoy your weekly writings. Many are so moving and I am keeping those as a pick-me-up when I need one. I have resisted commenting on your blogs (believe me, the vast, vast majority of any comments would be positive!). But on this one, I was confused. You said that the first 18-24 months of being a rabbi was difficult for you mentally and your "work suffered". I assume this was your time at WJC. If so, I heartily disagree. I thought you were a fabulous rabbi and certainly - by far - the best Assistant (right out of school) Rabbi WJC ever had (or had since). You were/are very smart, humble, and caring of other people - superior to others. You may have wished to do better, but you were absolutely fine at WJC. And remember, you did have an outlet at WJC, basketball. I remember you being a fierce player, really letting go, but, of course, being a good sport. I am glad you have other outlets. As you said, very important. But again, for the record, maybe you did not meet your expectations, but you were truly a gifted Assistant Rabbi at WJC. Shabbat Shalom!
Hi, Marc! So glad you're reading and the words are moving to you. I was talking about my time at WJC and I am so glad externally the work didn't present as suffering. I think I was talking more about my internal processing of my work, how I viewed it, and how I handled work/life balance. In any event, really appreciate your friendship and kindness. Mazal tov on being honored tonight!
Thank you for the kind words. It was a great evening last night.
I go through the same thing you describe both personally and professionally. I think I did a "bad job" helping a friend or performing a job function or "I could have done better". But then in most (but not all) cases, the friend or client expresses thanks and delight in the effort. It did benefit them. Then I realize I am beating myself up too much. I know you had internal issues while at WJC (you admitted to them while there), and I'm sure the issues were legitimate. I just want you to know that your ultimate "product" as an assistant rabbi was outstanding (and not only according to me, but others, as well) and you should realize and accept that even if it does not change the other issues.
Hi Rabbi Adir. I really enjoy your weekly writings. Many are so moving and I am keeping those as a pick-me-up when I need one. I have resisted commenting on your blogs (believe me, the vast, vast majority of any comments would be positive!). But on this one, I was confused. You said that the first 18-24 months of being a rabbi was difficult for you mentally and your "work suffered". I assume this was your time at WJC. If so, I heartily disagree. I thought you were a fabulous rabbi and certainly - by far - the best Assistant (right out of school) Rabbi WJC ever had (or had since). You were/are very smart, humble, and caring of other people - superior to others. You may have wished to do better, but you were absolutely fine at WJC. And remember, you did have an outlet at WJC, basketball. I remember you being a fierce player, really letting go, but, of course, being a good sport. I am glad you have other outlets. As you said, very important. But again, for the record, maybe you did not meet your expectations, but you were truly a gifted Assistant Rabbi at WJC. Shabbat Shalom!
Hi, Marc! So glad you're reading and the words are moving to you. I was talking about my time at WJC and I am so glad externally the work didn't present as suffering. I think I was talking more about my internal processing of my work, how I viewed it, and how I handled work/life balance. In any event, really appreciate your friendship and kindness. Mazal tov on being honored tonight!
Thank you for the kind words. It was a great evening last night.
I go through the same thing you describe both personally and professionally. I think I did a "bad job" helping a friend or performing a job function or "I could have done better". But then in most (but not all) cases, the friend or client expresses thanks and delight in the effort. It did benefit them. Then I realize I am beating myself up too much. I know you had internal issues while at WJC (you admitted to them while there), and I'm sure the issues were legitimate. I just want you to know that your ultimate "product" as an assistant rabbi was outstanding (and not only according to me, but others, as well) and you should realize and accept that even if it does not change the other issues.