Purim is a "rite of reversal". Everything in the megillah turns out backwards to how it was during the time of the Persian Empire. Such a story, when paired with ritual as in Purim, serves as a powerful, safe way of venting our frustrations and moving toward our highest hopes. While on Purim it is traditional to bring platters of hamentaschen and other sweets to those in our lives, and especially those who cannot afford such things, in order to bring "sweets" your way I have just posted a free, original Purim story from Mitzvah Stories: Seeds for Inspiration and Learning [3], which is by Amichai Lau Lavie and titled "The Dress: A Purim Fairy Tale" [4]. And, if you didnt see it last year, Rabbi Naomi Steinberg's original fable: "Queen Esther's Joy" [5] shades important light on difference in the realm of personality, talents and Jewish connection. Our vision at Reclaiming Judaism Press is for such inclusive Jewish stories to become a normal part of Jewish life and learning. Chag Sameach!
