“Elijah” was written B.C.P. (before the coronavirus pandemic). Its call-to-action was to fill “empty” spaces with human connection and gathering, ideas and possibilities.
As this gut-wrenching pandemic infects every life in every way, I choose open over empty. I choose to fill the empty spaces left by lives lost, lack of income, isolation, and despair with an open heart, open (virtual) arms, and to the extent I can afford, an open wallet.
Elijah
I’m not Jewish, but I love a lot of Jewish traditions.
I once learned a bit about Elijah at Passover Seder. My gracious hosts left an empty place for him at the table. To them, this represented an open invitation to Elijah at every Seder, as he is the harbinger of salvation, the prophet who will usher in the Messiah. *
I loved this, and I’ve always thought, “What if we take it one step further and leave an empty seat at every table, both literal and figurative?”
Now more than ever we need to connect with people who are not like us, and with possibilities we’ve never before considered.
With the most thoughtful and compassionate intentions, that empty seat could hold space for voices not represented at the table. It could be the space we leave open for new ideas and opportunities.
An empty seat could act as a collectively open heart and mind. It could be there for someone who is hungry for food, or for the company of others. And as it turns out, this concept also has a place at Passover Seder as part of the Haggadah, the retelling of the Exodus from Egypt.
So, the next time you sit down for a group meal or a meeting, consider leaving an open space at the table. Take a moment to think about that open space. Discuss why it’s there, who’s missing, and what it represents. I bet it will transform your gathering in unimaginable, uplifting, and memorable ways.
Lessons
- Think about the negative space.
- Consider all you have and what others may not.
- Take time for the open spaces. Don’t think you have to fill everything up.
* The empty chair and open door for Elijah has many meanings and purposes for those of Jewish faith. This story represents just one that I personally experienced.