Dear John and all Doves,
      When I wrote my most recent postings I kept thinking about late Spring or very early Summer. And yet, as wisely noted by doves reading the Song of Solomon, the bridegroom is delayed. Summer is near, even at the gates or doors, as it begins and later as it ends around 9-20-2007. Before we arrive there we have the important 40 day marker ending on the Feast of Trumpets, the only additional Sabbath which occurs at the New Moon. Thank you for reminding us, Tony, I sense that is important,too. This can begin 9-13 or 14. It depends when the New Moon is seen. That would be the day associated with the Last Trump of the Shofar, according to Paul. According to Jewish tradition the gates or doors of Heaven open on this day. Then for the next 10 days, one can have one's name inscribed for another good year. The gates or doors then close for another year at the end of the Solemn Day of Atonement or Yom Kippur. It is an important 40 days plus 10 days of soul searching and resolving to change for the better. The tradition of asking forgiveness for wrongs done to another is a spiritual hallmark of the time and has great beauty. The past year and hope for the year in the future meet in many ways for many jews. Summer will be near, even at the gates in early to mid September. Each day now may we prepare and watch.

With Love and Shalom,
Jean Stepnoski