By Rabbi Cantor Marie Betcher

From the very beginning of our lives, sound and touch are so important. Even before a child is born, parents spend time singing or reading to the baby just so the baby will recognize their voices when born. We have all been through the Pandemic and we were all “set apart” from one another…no hugs, no touches, no handshakes. Even now, as things “get back to normal”, the hugs and touches are not as they used to be.

I’ve watched mothers and fathers hold their child. It is quite amazing to me how a simple kiss when a child has a “boo-boo” can make everything feel better. Children really do feel better with this simple touch. Just think of how wonderful it was and is to hold your child’s hand (or your mate) when you are walking along…the touch brings us such connection to each other.

How miraculous that simple actions like kisses and hugs, loving words and touches can provide comfort. Even in our own lives, we listen for those familiar voices and reach for a loving hand. And when we seek healing, we even more so…listen and reach.

There are so many times as a Rabbi or Chaplain, when I am with someone in need of healing and I’ll sing softly or whisper prayers or words of comfort, sometimes in their ear, and hold their hands while doing so. There is something soothing about our voice and touch, the connection to another human being. Something that the person focuses on and is able to finally relax and able to breath more easily.

What voice do you hear when you are in need of strength or healing? Is it your mother or father? Is it God?! Is this the same voice that still comes to you when you are in need? Or does this voice still resonate somewhere deep down inside providing guidance just at the right moment? We may even

hear those voices from our past, voices of those who are no longer with us today.

I can still hear my mother’s voice…Her voice is one of comfort and guidance and sometimes even providing a boost to move forward through a challenge.

But sometimes we need a touch as well. A hug can be so powerful. One person putting their arms around another provides a sense of comfort and protection. Especially in times of greatest need.

When we know that a loved one is sick, we might say words or prayers for healing.

Each of us has the power to provide healing if only we reached out and tried. All it requires is a touch and a kind word. And even when the end is imminent, these touches and words can guide a loved one on as they pass on from this place to the next. And these touches and words give us comfort as we say goodbye.

Many of us seek healing for our own pain and suffering, or for the suffering of our loved ones or friends. Remember that touch and words connect us to one another and can offer comfort, compassion, and a soul connection that many of us are missing or lacking in this busy world we live in.

Let us all remember to love one another as we love ourselves. To help you do that, when you look into someone’s eyes, you are seeing a spark of the Divine. We are all precious and loved!

Ken Y’hi ratzon……May it be so.