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Parenting as Spiritual Practice: Insights and Revelations

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I gave this Torah-Dharma talk at the Hazon Winter Meditation retreat in 2014. It touches on several themes revolving around my personal experiences and reflections on parenthood, particularly becoming an Aba. Here are some of the key themes:

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  1. Parenthood and Spiritual Transformation: Becoming "Aba," was the most spiritual experience of my life. The talk delves into the transformative and profound aspects of the journey into parenthood.

  2. The Phases of Parenthood: "Planet Pregnancy," "Planet Birth," and "Planet Parenthood" as a metaphor describing the different stages of becoming a parent. The challenges and joys associated with each phase are explored, emphasizing the continuous practice and adaptation required.

  3. Naming and Identity: The naming of the child is portrayed as a significant and spiritual act, drawing from teachings in the Talmud.

  4. Sensory Processing and Sensory Diets: The speaker delves into sensory experiences, discussing sensory processing issues and introducing the concept of sensory diets. The discussion extends to personal reflections on sensory experiences and how individuals may need different "cups" for various senses.

  5. Connection to Spiritual and Religious Teachings: References to Talmudic teachings and Jewish spirituality are woven into the narrative, connecting personal experiences with broader spiritual and cultural contexts.

  6. Loss, Gratitude, and Transformation: The talk reflects on the loss of a spiritual teacher, Reb Zalman, and the gratitude for the time spent together. The story of finding Reb Zalman's kippah and a silver hair becomes a symbol of transformation and connection.

  7. Bearing Witness and Compassion: My participation in the Bearing Witness retreats at Auschwitz-Birkenau and how it connects to themes of compassion, not knowing, and the interconnectedness of humanity's suffering.

  8. Messianic Themes: The narrative concludes with a story that touches on Messianic themes, emphasizing the potential for transformation and renewal within individuals and communities.