The COVID-19 pandemic has transformed all aspects of our lives. While some of us are eager to "return" to our previous lives, many of us are frightened. As COVID vaccinations increase and the CDC issues new guidelines, we may be excited about social interactions or travel, but we are also afraid. Afraid of our diminished social skills, afraid of a world missing so many loved ones, afraid of strangers. We have changed, so much has changed. We grieve this change.

Which brings us back to the critical questions: How can Judaism help us hold our grief in order to return back to life? How can Judaism guide us as we enter this next normal? 

Dr. Betsy Stone received her Doctorate in Psychology from Yale University. She is a retired psychologist who serves as an adjunct lecturer at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion. Her classes include Human Development for Educators, Adolescent Development, and Teens In and Out of Crisis. She teaches and consults with Jewish professionals across the country.