Mishnah Bekhorot 7:4-5

Shalom, dear parents! Welcome to our deep dive into Jewish parenting, where we embrace the beautiful chaos of family life and chase those precious micro-wins. Today, we're looking at a fascinating, and at first glance, perhaps challenging text from our tradition, Mishnah Bekhorot 7:4-5. Don't worry, we're not here to add more items to your never-ending to-do list or pile on the guilt. Quite the opposite! We're here to find wisdom that helps us see ourselves and our children with more kindness, more realism, and a whole lot more love. Let's bless this journey together.

Insight

From Ancient Standards to Modern Self-Acceptance: Seeing the Soul Beyond the "Blemish"

Our foundational text today, Mishnah Bekhorot 7:4-5, presents a detailed and extensive list of physical "blemishes" (מומים – mumim) that would disqualify a Kohen (priest) from performing sacred service in the Temple. It speaks of heads that are pointed or turnip-like, eyes like a calf or a goose, disproportionately sized limbs, ears like a sponge, crooked legs, extra fingers, even conditions like epilepsy or a "melancholy temper." The commentaries, like Rambam, emphasize the need for body parts to be "proportioned as is proper for the size of his body," suggesting a standard of ideal symmetry and functionality. Tosafot Yom Tov adds that while some of these might not be considered mumim in an animal if symmetrical, they are for a Kohen because he must be "equal among the seed of Aharon," implying a high, almost perfect, standard of physical presentation for his sacred role.

At first read, this text can feel jarring, even uncomfortable, in our modern sensibilities. It seems to focus intensely on external physical perfection, cataloging what might be considered "flaws" or "differences" in a way that feels antithetical to our contemporary values of inclusivity and body positivity. We might wonder: What possible relevance could this ancient list of physical disqualifications have for us, busy parents navigating the complexities of 21st-century life, trying to raise resilient, kind, and confident children?

The profound insight lies not in replicating these ancient standards, but in understanding the underlying tension they reveal – a tension that resonates deeply with our modern parenting experience. The Mishnah, in its meticulous detail, forces us to confront the human tendency to define worth and capability based on external appearance or perceived "perfection." For the Kohen, this was a specific halachic requirement for a unique role – to represent the physical perfection of creation before God in the Temple. But for us, the challenge is to translate this ancient framework into a contemporary lens: How do we define "perfection" or "wholeness" in our children, in ourselves, and in our families? And more importantly, how do we move beyond a surface-level assessment to truly see the inherent worth and divine spark (neshama) in every individual?

In a world saturated with curated social media feeds, unattainable beauty standards, and relentless academic and extracurricular pressures, our children are constantly bombarded with messages that subtly, or overtly, create their own modern "lists of blemishes." Is my child athletic enough? Smart enough? Popular enough? Does their hair lie flat enough? Are their teeth straight enough? Is their artwork "good enough" for the fridge? These unspoken (and sometimes spoken) benchmarks become our contemporary equivalent of the Mishnah's detailed list, creating internal pressures that can lead to anxiety, self-doubt, and a pervasive feeling of "not enough" – both for our children and for us as parents. We fear that our children's "imperfections" might hinder their success, their happiness, or their acceptance by peers. We project our own anxieties about fitting in and achieving onto them, often unintentionally.

Jewish tradition offers a powerful counter-narrative to this external focus. The foundational concept of b'tzelem Elokim – that every human being is created in God's image – is perhaps the most radical statement of unconditional worth. It asserts that our value is inherent, divinely bestowed, and entirely independent of our physical appearance, our abilities, our achievements, or any perceived "blemishes." This means that your child, in their unique, perfectly imperfect form, is a manifestation of the Divine. Their crooked smile, their boundless energy, their quiet introspection, their unique way of seeing the world – all are part of the tzelem Elokim that makes them who they are.

Our task as Jewish parents, then, is to help our children internalize this profound truth. It means cultivating an environment where they feel seen, loved, and valued for who they are, not for what they do or how they look. It means consciously shifting our focus from evaluating their external "perfections" or "imperfections" to nurturing their inner qualities: their middot (character traits) like kindness, patience, honesty, resilience, and compassion. When we fixate on a child's struggles – be it a learning difference, a social awkwardness, or even a messy room – we risk inadvertently sending the message that their worth is conditional upon overcoming these perceived "flaws." The Mishnah's detailed list can serve as a potent reminder for us to examine our own internal checklists: Are we, perhaps unconsciously, creating our own categories of disqualification for our children's inherent worth?

Consider the Kohen who, despite a physical "blemish," was still a Kohen, still holy, still a descendant of Aaron. The disqualification was specific to the Temple service, not to his inherent personhood or holiness. This distinction is crucial. Our children's challenges or differences do not diminish their inherent holiness, their potential, or their beloved status in our family and in the eyes of God. Our job is to help them understand this distinction for themselves. We aim to raise children who understand that while effort and growth are important, their core value is unwavering.

This perspective also extends to us, the parents. How often do we apply equally stringent, self-defeating lists of "blemishes" to ourselves? "I'm not patient enough." "I'm not organized enough." "My house isn't clean enough." "I don't have enough energy." "I'm not a 'perfect' Jewish parent." This relentless self-criticism, often fueled by unrealistic expectations, can erode our well-being and, by extension, our ability to parent from a place of joy and presence. Just as we strive to see the neshama in our children, we must learn to see it in ourselves. We are all b'tzelem Elokim, perfectly imperfect, and "good enough" is not just acceptable, it is often divine. Our tradition, rich with stories of flawed prophets and struggling sages, teaches us that spiritual growth often emerges from grappling with our imperfections, not from their absence.

Cultivating an environment of unconditional love and acceptance means actively challenging the external narrative of perfection. It involves:

1. Modeling Self-Acceptance: Our children learn from watching us. When we speak kindly about our own bodies, our own struggles, and our own imperfections, we teach them self-compassion. When we openly admit we made a mistake and apologize, we model humility and growth.
2. Affirming Inner Qualities: Make a conscious effort to praise character traits more than achievements or appearance. Instead of "You're so pretty," try "You were so kind to your friend." Instead of "Great job getting an A," try "I'm so proud of how hard you persevered with that challenging assignment." This shifts the focus from external validation to internal strength.
3. Celebrating Differences: The Mishnah’s list, while exclusionary in its context, can inspire us to do the opposite: to celebrate the vast spectrum of human variation. Talk about how different people have different talents, different looks, different ways of thinking, and how this diversity enriches our world. Help your child understand that being "different" is not a "blemish" but a unique contribution.
4. Emphasizing Growth Mindset: Instead of seeing a "blemish" as a fixed flaw, frame challenges as opportunities for growth. A child struggling with reading isn't "bad at reading"; they are "learning to become a stronger reader." This aligns with the Jewish value of tikkun olam (repairing the world) and tikkun ha'nefesh (repairing the soul), which imply a continuous process of self-improvement, not an arrival at a static state of perfection.
5. Creating a "Sanctuary of Acceptance" at Home: Your home should be the primary place where your child feels completely safe, loved, and accepted exactly as they are. This doesn't mean ignoring behavioral issues or not setting boundaries, but it means separating the behavior from the child's inherent worth. A child who misbehaves is still a beloved child of God, capable of teshuva (repentance/return).

The Mishnah's extensive list of specific physical mumim for the Kohen, though seemingly rigid, paradoxically invites us into a deeper understanding of "wholeness." It prompts us to consider what true tamim (wholeness or integrity) means beyond the physical. Perhaps for us, in our post-Temple era, true tamim is about spiritual integrity, emotional resilience, and the capacity for chesed (loving-kindness) and rachamim (compassion) – qualities that allow us to embrace ourselves and others, "blemishes" and all.

In the words of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, "If you believe you can damage, believe you can repair." This applies not only to our actions but also to our perceptions. If we can inadvertently "damage" our children's self-perception by focusing on flaws, we also have the immense power to "repair" and build their self-worth by emphasizing their inner light and inherent holiness. Let us use the ancient wisdom of the Mishnah not to create new lists of imperfections, but to inspire a profound commitment to unconditional love and radical acceptance, celebrating the divine masterpiece that is each and every child. Bless this sacred work, parents, for in seeing the soul, we truly see God.

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Text Snapshot

"Concerning these blemishes which were taught with regard to an animal, whether they are permanent or transient, they also disqualify in the case of a person... One whose head is pointed... and one whose head is turnip-like... one whose eyes are large like those of a calf or small like those of a goose... one whose body is disproportionately large relative to his limbs or disproportionately small relative to his limbs... one whose fingers or toes are configured one upon the other, or one whose fingers or toes are attached..." (Mishnah Bekhorot 7:4-5)

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Activity

The "My Unique Spark" Challenge: Celebrating Our Inner and Outer Selves (A 10-Minute Journey for All Ages)

This activity is designed to help children (and parents!) appreciate their unique qualities, both internal and external, moving beyond superficial judgments and embracing the idea that everyone is created b'tzelem Elokim – in God's image, perfect in their own way. We'll use the Mishnah's detailed list of physical traits as a springboard to discuss how we perceive "differences" and how we can reframe them as part of our unique spark.

Core Idea: To consciously acknowledge and celebrate the diverse, wonderful ways we are made and what makes us special, focusing on both physical traits and character strengths, fostering self-acceptance and appreciation for others.

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For Toddlers & Preschoolers (Ages 2-5): "My Wobbly, Wiggly, Wonderful Body!"

Goal: To help young children become aware of their bodies in a positive, functional way, emphasizing what their bodies can do rather than how they look, and introducing the concept that all bodies are good bodies.

Materials: A mirror (full-length or hand-held), optional: crayons and paper.

How to Play (5-10 minutes):

1. Mirror, Mirror, On the Wall: Stand with your child in front of a mirror. Point to different body parts and name them. "This is your nose! What does your nose do? It smells yummy challah!" "These are your legs! What do your legs do? They help you run and jump!"
2. Action Time: As you name parts, encourage movement. "Can you wiggle your fingers? Can you stomp your feet? Can you make your eyes blink?"
3. Affirmation Focus: Gently touch different parts of their body and say positive affirmations. "Your hands are strong and kind." "Your legs help you explore the world." "Your smile makes me so happy."
4. "My Favorite Part" (Optional): Ask your child, "What's something your body does that you love?" They might say "run fast" or "hug Mommy." Celebrate their answer.
5. Drawing (Optional): On a piece of paper, have your child draw a simple picture of themselves. As they draw, talk about their unique features ("You have such curly hair!") and how wonderful it is that everyone looks a little different. "Your body is special because it's yours!"

Parenting Coach Tip: For this age, keep it light and fun. The goal isn't deep philosophical discussion, but positive association and basic body literacy. Avoid any language that compares or judges. Just celebrate the miracle of their growing, moving body. "Bless the wiggles, they're learning!"

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For Elementary Schoolers (Ages 6-11): "My Super-Spark Powers & Unique Design"

Goal: To help children identify their unique physical traits and inner character strengths, understanding that both contribute to their specialness. To facilitate a discussion about how differences are part of God's beautiful creation.

Materials: Paper, crayons/markers, optional: old magazines or pictures of diverse people.

How to Play (10-15 minutes):

1. The Mishnah's Mirror (Brief Intro): Briefly explain (in age-appropriate terms) that long ago, in the Temple, Kohanim had to look a certain way to do their special job. "They had lists of things that made them 'different' from the 'ideal.' But outside of the Temple, they were still holy, special people! Today, we don't have that Temple, but sometimes, we still have ideas about how people 'should' look or act."
2. "My Unique Design" Drawing: Give your child paper and drawing supplies. Ask them to draw a picture of themselves, focusing on what makes them physically unique. "Do you have a special freckle? A particular hair color? A tall body? What makes your eyes special?" Emphasize that these are not "blemishes" but beautiful design features. "God made you exactly how you are, and that's wonderful."
3. "My Super-Spark Powers" (Character Strengths): On the same drawing or a separate piece of paper, ask your child to list 3-5 "Super-Spark Powers" they possess. These should be inner qualities. Examples: "I am a kind friend," "I am a good helper," "I am brave when I try new things," "I am a curious learner," "I am good at listening."
4. Share & Celebrate: Have everyone share their drawings and "Super-Spark Powers." As a parent, share yours too! Model vulnerability and self-acceptance. "I have a big nose, just like my Bubbe, and I used to not like it, but now I see it as part of my family's story. My Super-Spark Power is being a good listener."
5. Discussion Point (Optional, if time allows): "Sometimes, people look different from us, or act different. How can we make sure everyone feels special and loved, no matter how they look or what their 'Super-Spark Powers' are?" Connect it back to b'tzelem Elokim – everyone has a divine spark.

Parenting Coach Tip: This activity encourages both self-reflection and empathy. By drawing themselves, they become mindful of their physical uniqueness in a positive light. By identifying "Super-Spark Powers," they build self-esteem around internal strengths. Frame differences as "God's creative choices" rather than flaws. Aim for genuine curiosity and acceptance.

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For Teens & Tweens (Ages 12-18): "Beyond the Surface: Stories of Neshama"

Goal: To engage older children in a deeper discussion about societal pressures, self-perception, and the Jewish value of seeing beyond superficial appearances to the neshama (soul). To challenge the "blemish" mindset in themselves and others.

Materials: Journal or notebook, pens, optional: access to a device for researching stories.

How to Play (15-20 minutes, or longer for deeper discussion):

1. The Mishnah's Challenge (Deeper Dive): Explain the Mishnah's text more fully: the specific physical requirements for Kohanim, and the implication that external perfection was paramount for this specific role. Then pivot: "Today, we don't have the Temple, but we still live in a world that often sets up its own 'lists of blemishes' – whether it's through social media, advertising, or peer pressure. What are some of those 'blemishes' our society often focuses on?" (e.g., body image, academic performance, popularity, 'fitting in').
2. Journal Prompt: My Internal List: Ask your teen to spend a few minutes journaling privately about: "What 'blemishes' or 'imperfections' do I sometimes feel about myself (physical, academic, social, personality)? Where do these feelings come from?" Emphasize this is a safe space for honest reflection, not judgment.
3. Journal Prompt: My Neshama & Strengths: Then, ask them to journal about: "What are my unique strengths, talents, and character traits that make up my neshama? What do I value most about myself, beyond what others see on the surface?"
4. "Stories of Neshama" Exploration (Choose One):
   • Option A (Research): Challenge them to find a story (historical or contemporary, Jewish or secular) of an individual who achieved great things, made a significant impact, or inspired others, despite facing physical challenges, societal judgments about their appearance, or being considered "different." (Examples: Helen Keller, Stephen Hawking, Frida Kahlo, Joni Eareckson Tada, or a personal family story).
   • Option B (Personal Reflection): Share a personal story of your own, or someone you know, who exemplified strength of neshama despite external challenges.
5. Discussion (Guided Conversation):
   • "What did you notice about the Mishnah's focus versus the 'Stories of Neshama'?"
   • "How does the concept of b'tzelem Elokim challenge society's 'lists of blemishes'?"
   • "How can we, in our daily lives, practice seeing beyond the surface – in ourselves and in others?"
   • "What's one thing you can do this week to show yourself or someone else that their neshama is what truly matters?"

Parenting Coach Tip: For this age, the power is in the discussion and the personal reflection. Create a non-judgmental space. Acknowledge the real pressures teens face. Emphasize that Jewish wisdom calls us to a higher standard: seeing the divine within, which is far more profound than any superficial "blemish." This is about empowering them to be agents of acceptance, for themselves and their peers.

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Script

Navigating Awkward Questions: Responding with Kindness, Truth, and Neshama-Sight

The Mishnah's detailed list of physical "blemishes" for Kohanim, while specific to Temple service, highlights a universal human experience: encountering physical differences and the discomfort or curiosity that can arise. As parents, we often find ourselves in situations where our children ask direct, sometimes blunt, questions about someone's appearance, or where others comment on our children's looks, or even when our children express insecurity about their own bodies. These moments are opportunities to teach empathy, respect, and the profound Jewish value of seeing the neshama (soul) in every person. Here are a few 30-second scripts to help you navigate these tricky waters with grace and truth.

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Scenario 1: Your Child Asks About Someone Else's Visible Difference

The Question: (Child, pointing) "Mommy/Abba, why does that person's leg look like that?" or "Why does that person have different eyes?"

Your 30-Second Script:

"That's a good question, sweetie. You've noticed that person's body is made a little differently than ours. Just like some people have different hair colors or different kinds of voices, some people's bodies work or look in unique ways. God made all of us wonderfully unique, and those differences are just part of what makes each person special. The important thing is that we're kind and respectful to everyone, no matter how they look. What do you think that person's neshama (soul) is like?"

Why it works:

• Normalizes without over-explaining: Acknowledges the difference without making it a "problem."
• Focuses on uniqueness: Frames differences as part of creation's beauty.
• Emphasizes middot (character): Redirects to kindness and respect.
• Introduces neshama: Gently shifts focus to inner being.
• Empowers curiosity in a positive way: Invites the child to think about inner qualities.

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Scenario 2: Your Child Expresses Insecurity About Their Own Physical Trait

The Question: (Child, looking in mirror) "My ears stick out too much! I hate my ears!" or "I wish I was taller/shorter/had different hair."

Your 30-Second Script:

"Oh, my love, I hear you're feeling a little self-conscious about your ears right now. I know sometimes we wish parts of us were different. But do you know what I see? I see your unique ears, perfectly designed for you, and they help you hear all the beautiful sounds in the world, like music and laughter. Those ears are part of what makes you, you – a precious, one-of-a-kind child of God, filled with a beautiful neshama. Your ears are perfect just the way they are, because you are perfect just the way you are."

Why it works:

• Validates feelings: "I hear you're feeling self-conscious..." shows empathy.
• Reframes "flaw" as unique design: Connects it to their individuality.
• Focuses on function and inherent worth: Emphasizes what the body part does and their neshama.
• Unconditional affirmation: "You are perfect just the way you are."
• Quick and powerful: Delivers a strong message of acceptance in a short timeframe.

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Scenario 3: Another Adult Comments on Your Child's Appearance (Negatively or Over-Positively)

The Comment: (Grandparent/neighbor) "Oh, he's so skinny, are you feeding him enough?" or "Wow, she's gotten so tall, almost like a grown-up!" (focusing solely on external appearance).

Your 30-Second Script (for general comments):

"Thanks for noticing! We're just blessed that he's healthy and full of energy. What we really love about [Child's Name] is [mention a character trait, e.g., 'his incredible curiosity' or 'her generous heart']. That's the real beauty we see!"

Your 30-Second Script (for more pointed/negative comments):

"We're really focusing on [Child's Name]'s health and happiness, and celebrating all the amazing things about [him/her]. We try to emphasize that what's inside – like [mention a character trait, e.g., 'kindness' or 'bravery'] – is what truly shines. Every child is a masterpiece, just as they are!"

Why it works:

• Sets a boundary politely: Redirects the conversation away from superficial judgment.
• Prioritizes inner qualities: Models for your child (and the adult) what truly matters.
• Focuses on health/happiness: A positive, non-defensive response.
• Universalizes the message: "Every child is a masterpiece" applies to all.
• Protects your child: Shields them from external pressures about their appearance.

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Scenario 4: Your Child Asks About the Kohen's Blemishes (Connecting to the Text)

The Question: "Why did the Kohanim have to be so perfect? Why couldn't they serve if they had a big nose or funny ears?" (referencing our Mishnah text)

Your 30-Second Script:

"That's a really deep question, and it shows you're thinking hard! In the ancient Temple, the Kohen's job was to represent a kind of perfect creation before God, a symbolic ideal. So, the Mishnah describes very specific physical standards for that particular sacred role. But here's the most important part: even if a Kohen had a 'blemish' and couldn't serve in the Temple, he was still a holy, beloved person, created in God's image, b'tzelem Elokim. It reminds us that while some jobs might have specific requirements, a person's true worth and holiness always comes from their neshama, their soul, not just how they look on the outside. What's most important is who we are inside."

Why it works:

• Validates the curiosity: Acknowledges the child's intelligent engagement with the text.
• Provides context: Explains the why of the Kohen's role and its specific requirements.
• Distinguishes role from inherent worth: Clearly separates the requirements of a job from a person's holiness.
• Reiterates b'tzelem Elokim: Reinforces the core Jewish value.
• Pivots to modern relevance: Connects ancient text to the enduring truth about neshama.

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These scripts are designed to be quick, empathetic, and infused with Jewish values. Remember, the goal isn't perfection in your response, but consistent effort to guide your children (and yourself) towards a deeper appreciation of inner worth and the beauty of diversity. You've got this, parents – bless the effort!

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Habit

The "Soul-Sight" Moment: 60 Seconds to See Beyond the Surface

In a world that constantly encourages us to scrutinize and categorize based on external appearances – whether it's the Mishnah's ancient list of Kohanic "blemishes" or our modern society's relentless focus on physical perfection and achievement – it's crucial to cultivate a counter-habit. This week's micro-habit is designed to shift your gaze, just for a moment, from the superficial to the sacred.

The Micro-Habit: Once a day, for just 60 seconds, engage in a "Soul-Sight" Moment.

How to Practice:

1. Choose Your Subject: This can be your child, your partner, a family member, or even yourself in the mirror.
2. Pause & Look: For one full minute, simply look at this person (or your reflection). Don't analyze, don't judge, don't plan your next task. Just see.
3. Find the Neshama: As you look, consciously acknowledge their neshama – their divine spark, their inherent worth, their unique light. Let go of any "lists of blemishes" you might unconsciously hold, whether physical, behavioral, or character-based. Don't think about what they "should" be doing or how they "should" look. Just appreciate their being.
4. Affirm One Inner Quality: Silently (or out loud, if appropriate), name one non-physical quality you cherish about them. Is it their resilience? Their kindness? Their sense of humor? Their quiet wisdom? Their vibrant energy? Their perseverance?
5. Blessing: Conclude with a silent blessing: "May you be well. May you know your worth. May your light shine brightly."

Why This Micro-Habit is Transformative (400-600 words):

This seemingly simple 60-second practice is a profound act of tikkun ha'nefesh (repair of the soul) – both for you and for the person you are observing. In a culture of constant distraction and judgment, the "Soul-Sight" Moment is a radical act of presence and unconditional acceptance.

• Combats the "Blemish" Mindset: The Mishnah’s text, with its detailed catalog of physical "imperfections," reminds us how easily we can fall into the trap of defining worth by external standards. This micro-habit actively dismantles that mindset. By intentionally focusing on the neshama and inner qualities, you are retraining your brain to prioritize what truly matters, echoing the Jewish teaching that "man sees with the eyes, but God sees with the heart." You are consciously choosing to see your child not as a collection of traits to be optimized, but as a whole, holy being.

• Deepens Connection: When you truly see someone, beyond their roles, beyond their temporary moods, beyond their physical presentation, you forge a deeper connection. Your child, even if unaware of your internal practice, will subtly feel the difference in your presence and your loving gaze. This builds a foundation of secure attachment and unconditional love, which are paramount for healthy development. For yourself, seeing your own neshama in the mirror, acknowledging your inherent worth despite perceived flaws, is an act of self-compassion that can reduce guilt and boost self-esteem.

• Cultivates Gratitude and Joy: Shifting your focus from what "needs fixing" to what is already beautiful and whole naturally cultivates gratitude. When you consciously acknowledge your child's kindness, curiosity, or resilience, you're not just noticing it; you're celebrating it. This practice can transform everyday interactions, infusing them with more joy and appreciation, even amidst the chaos of parenting. It reminds you of the immense blessings in your life, often found in the simplest moments.

• Reinforces B'tzelem Elokim: This habit is a daily, embodied practice of the concept of b'tzelem Elokim (created in God's image). It's not just an abstract theological idea; it's a lived experience. By actively seeking and affirming the divine spark in another, you are recognizing God's presence in the world and in your relationships. This grounds your parenting in a profound spiritual truth, making every interaction an opportunity for holiness.

• It's Doable (Micro-Win!): Sixty seconds. That's it. You don't need special equipment or a quiet retreat. You can do it while your child is eating breakfast, playing, or sleeping. You can do it while waiting for the kettle to boil, looking at your own reflection. This isn't about adding another impossible task; it's about a small, consistent shift in perspective that accumulates profound benefits over time. It's a true micro-win that blesses the chaos by bringing moments of sacred presence into your day.

Embrace this "Soul-Sight" Moment this week. Let it be a gentle, yet powerful, anchor in your parenting journey, reminding you that true perfection lies not in the absence of "blemishes," but in the radiant presence of the neshama.

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Takeaway

Dear parents, the Mishnah's ancient list of physical "blemishes" for Kohanim challenges us to look deeper. It's not about replicating those standards, but about questioning our own modern "lists" of perfection. Remember, every child, every person, is created b'tzelem Elokim – in God's image, complete with a unique, radiant neshama. Your role is to see, celebrate, and affirm that inherent worth, beyond any superficial "blemish" or societal expectation. Embrace the "good enough," practice "Soul-Sight," and know that in blessing the chaos, you are nurturing truly whole and beloved souls. Go forth and shine, knowing you're doing holy work.