Growing up in a Jewish household, Easter was not a religious holiday, but rather, a cultural experience, since most of our neighbors were Christian. My parents welcomed opportunities for my sister Jan and me to immerse in the traditions of others so as to expand our horizons. At the time, I had no clue how the Easter Bunny knew to leave baskets for two little Jewish girls at the Kiernicki’s house next door. My parents were at a loss to explain it too; but there they were, rainbow colored wicker overflowing with lime green Easter grass, plastic eggs rattling with multi-hued jelly beans and the decadent deliciousity of chocolate covered coconut eggs with our names calligraphed on their surface. A few sunshine yellow Peeps were scattered about for good measure. I am getting a sugar high just remembering it.

When I was in college, my friend Albert and I visited his nieces Jamie and Jennifer, dressed in footie pajamas, long rabbit ears and cotton tails attached to our buns; delivering sweet treats. The two of them laughed with delight, believing, I would like to imagine, that their uncle and I really were related to the happy hare. I’m sure there is a picture somewhere.

These days; interfaith practitioner that I am, I celebrate both Passover and Easter; appreciating the theme of renewal and freedom, heralding new life. This weekend, I will be sharing the first night of Passover at the seder of a friend, as well as Sunday morning service at Circle of Miracles. I anticipate finding deep meaning in both rituals, as I recognize the connection between the holidays and honor One who came to this planet to be teacher and guide; ushering us into the Divine.

http://youtu.be/q1FUTpPRYAw Here Comes Peter Cottontail