About this group:

In collaboration with JUDITH Magazine, Katavti is intended to offer a container for Jewish participants to write, connect, and share the particulars of our experiences during a universally challenging and transformative time.

The group will consist of short, deceptively simple prompts, encouragement to write for 10 or 15 minutes per day without editing, and a place to connect with fellow members of the tribe.

How will it work?

* Receive a handcrafted prompt in your inbox each morning, Monday through Friday (with a break for Shabbat and the weekend).
* Set a timer for 10 minutes each day to write without stopping to edit, delete, overthink (or give up).
* Share your words each day in our secret Facebook group, where even the most dogged inner critics will relax.

What does “katavti” mean? 

In Hebrew, “katavti” means, “I wrote,” or “I have written.” In the tradition of saying “dibarti” (I have spoken) after speaking, and “shamati” (I have listened) after truly hearing another person, the name of this group takes that intention and turns it to the power of writing.  

Why writing? 

Writing helps us reconnect with ourselves, acknowledge our capacity, name what is taking up space in our hearts and psyches and bodies, and, just maybe, extend greater compassion and empathy to each other. In a word, it is a grounding way to sift through the piles of thoughts and maybe (just maybe!) create a little more internal space and a little more external connection.

Who should join? 

Anyone who longs for both a daily practice and a soft place to land. This is not a political group but rather one where, as Jews, we can set down the constant pressure to articulate, explain, defend, minimize, or otherwise address our opinions, beliefs, and values. 

Does my writing have to be about Jewish things? 

Not at all. I will provide a prompt/theme each morning. You can use this as a jumping off point or a theme for that day’s writing. Your writing can also be anything that’s real and true for you in the moment. 

What’s the time commitment?  

You are encouraged to write and post each day for a total of 10 days (Monday-Friday for two weeks) and to read and comment on at least one other post each day. Plan on roughly 30 minutes per day for writing and reading/commenting. 

What if I don’t have much time? 

Part of the “realness” of this group is honoring that everyone’s capacity is different and life is always happening, so honor your own energy and time constraints. Everyone is welcome to participate to the extent possible for them.  

Will we get feedback? 

Yes and no! This is not a writing workshop, in that we are not here to produce anything. That being said, encouraging, reflective comments are welcomed and encouraged. Something as simple as “shamati” can also be a powerful way of witnessing.

When & Where

June 23 – July 6

Private Facebook Group
Monday-Friday, June 23-27, June 30-July 4 

We’ll connect asynchronously for 10 days of writing, sharing, reading, and commenting. 

Zoom
Sunday, July 6 2:30-4:00pm EST 

Our practice will culminate in a Zoom gathering, where we will write together in real time and get to hear each other’s voices and see each other’s faces.

Cost & Registration

Pay from the heart
Suggested: $36-$108

*No one will be turned away for lack of funds 

♥