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Each of us is assigned to master something in our lives. We get hints of our unique soul curriculum through the situations that repeatedly challenge us, the mistakes we keep making over and over again, and the suffering we cause ourselves and others. Mussar, a centuries old Jewish practice of spiritual self-examination, provides guidance in identifying our personal path of spiritual growth and the transformational practices we can use to encourage that growth. While rooted in Judaism, the teachings of Mussar are applicable to everyone who seeks to come closer to his/her spiritual potential.

This four-week Online Retreat and Practice Circle is an introduction to this highly practical set of teachings. It is being presented during the month of Elul, August 10 - September 11, a traditional time of reflection in preparation for the Jewish High Holidays of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.

The word Mussar means "correction" or "instruction" and also serves as the simple modern Hebrew word for "ethics." But Mussar is more accurately described as a way of life. It shows us how to understand specific soul traits and to assess the state of those qualities in ourselves. We then work with practices — some of which are contemplative and some of which focus on how we relate to others in daily life — to help us heal and refine ourselves.

During the retreat, we will focus on a sampling of six soul traits and what indicates a deficiency in those qualities:

• Generosity/Stinginess
• Gratitude/Entitlement
• Patience/Impatience
• Trust/Worry
• Humility/Arrogance
• Enthusiasm/Procrastination

E-Course participants will receive three emails each week, containing:

• An essay by Alan Morinis and Shirah Bell on key Mussar concepts.
• Reflection questions to deepen the learning and specific practices to apply the concepts to everyday life.

You will also receive:

• Short audio programs of guided practices by Alan Morinis or Shirah Bell.
• Access to our online Practice Circle where you can share your insights, questions, and experiences with others from around the world.

This Online Retreat has been developed by Dr. Alan Morinis and Dr. Shirah Bell. Morinis founded The Mussar Institute in 2004. For the past 12 years the nearly lost Jewish spiritual discipline of Mussar has been his passion, a journey recorded in the book Climbing Jacob’s Ladder. His guide to Mussar practice, Everyday Holiness, was published in May 2007, and Every Day, Holy Day: 365 Days of Teachings and Practices from the Jewish Tradition of Mussar has just been released. Dr. Shirah Bell, a Certified Spiritual Director, directs the Mussar Institute's basic course offering, Everyday Holiness and leads Mussar classes in Seattle, Washington, as well as mentoring individuals in Mussar and spirituality.

Join us as we study this guidance system for the soul's life journey and discover your own unique spiritual curriculum. Click on "Subscribe to E-Course" below.