Why “Shameless”?

For many years, this blog was called “Shameless Judaism,” after my ELI talk on shame in the Jewish commmunity.  

“Shameless” is more of a goal than a destination.  As I wrote in my first post, I’m sure the rabbinic tradition knew that many of us need help moving past our fears. They set up our prayers so that we ask God regularly to help us NOT be ashamed.  V’lo nevosh l’olam va’ed.  They knew it takes work– and some Divine help– to show up for our lives, to be the people God wants us to be, without embarrassment or shame. 

I’ve always wanted to be a writer. So this is me, writing.  I’m not promising to write every day, or every week, but I’m promising to keep plugging away.  At times, it might feel embarrassing or imperfect or, for that matter, not particularly remarkable, but hey, that’s why I’m calling it “shameless.”   If I can inspire any reader to take your own risks, to go after your own goals, then I’m succeeding.  What’s your next goal?  What would YOU do if you had no sense of fear or shame?  Join the club! Let me know the ways in which you’re bringing a little shameless spirit into your own life… I can’t wait to hear.