I am starting this blog in response to the last few days of my life. This many jarringly different and powerful events in such a short period of time demands a response. Since last Wednesday, I have experienced (in order):

1. The celebration of the completion of a major tractate of the Talmud -- 11 years in the making.
2. The death of a dear friend's father, preparing his body for burial, and laying him to rest.
3. My mother slipping away from this world; and traveling to spend her last few days together with her and my brother and sister.
4. The engagement of my oldest daughter to a wonderful young man whom we welcome into our family with open arms.

The conflicting emotions have left me literally stunned... not knowing which way to turn or how to feel.

I do know that I cannot possibly hope to understand the entire meaning of anything that happens in my life. Of one thing, however, I am certain. The events do have meaning. The least I can do is acknowledge that fact and put the effort into drawing the lessons I can; for I believe that that effort itself is one of the puposes of these events.