May the one who blessed our ancestors, heal this world that regards sick and disabled people as disposable.
Moses had a speech disability and was appointed by God as the spokesperson for the enslaved Hebrew people, not despite, but because of his difference. When Miriam was sick the whole camp of 600,000 people waited for her, before marching onwards. King Saul suffered from painful deep depressions and David soothed his soul by playing harp music.
May the God of our ancestors bring us to a time when these stories are not exceptional. May all of our access needs be met with care and abundant love. May every body’s unique strengths be celebrated and sanctified. And may we move together with no one left behind.
Ken Y’hi Ratzon, May it be so!
Copyright Rabbi Elliot Kukla, 2022, Inspired by the words of Patricia Berne:
All bodies are unique and essential, all bodies have strengths and needs that must be met. We are powerful not despite the complexities of our bodies, but because of them. We move together with no body left behind. This is disability Justice.
