Shma Yisrael Adonai Eloheynu Adonai Echad. Hear, O Israel, The Eternal, Our God, The Eternal is One.

This is the core of Jewish liturgy, a touchstone during services, familiar yet mysterious. I have vivid memories of services coming into focus around the Shma when I was a young girl. And it has continued to be a jumping off point at many times along my Jewish journey, a gateway to deeper observance and connection.

Shma, hear, listen.

That's where it all begins.