John O’Leary welcomes Rabbi Susan Talve on the Live Inspired Podcast to share the power of faith, humility, and the truth that by listening, understanding and building bridges that we have the power to heal the world.
In our polarized world, Rabbi Susan Talve stands as a beacon of hope, dedicating her life to building relationships across divides. As the founding rabbi of Central Reform Congregation, Susan has inspired a movement of community and connection, reminding us of the beautiful interconnectedness of humanity.
Today, Susan shares how an archeological dig in Israel opened her heart and mind to a life of spiritual leadership, how she channels the grief of losing her daughter Adina into creating positive change and her mission of “Tikkun Olam” – repairing the world.
My friends, this conversation is a testament to the power of faith, humility and the truth that listening, understanding and building bridges have the power to heal the world.
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SHOW NOTES:
- “If you’re open to it, whatever path you’re on, you find a way to serve.”
- Where’s the rabbi? Rabbi Michael Robinson answered the call of Martin Luther King Jr. and his Letter from Birmingham Jail to stand with him for civil rights to integrate a lunch counter and march in Selma. Susan believes his influence led her to her role today.
- When visiting Jerusalem with her professor of religion, they discovered a mikvah, which would be the oldest ancient ritual bath at that time in northern Israel. The archeology and how the ancient stories came to life is what reinforced her interest in religion.
- In addition to forming the Central Reform Congregation, Susan’s daughter receiving life-saving heart surgery at Children’s Hospital kept them in St. Louis.
- Find your way in bringing repair to the world: Tikkun Olam is a Hebrew phrase meaning “world repair” and has become synonymous with the notion of social action and the pursuit of social justice.
- In the midst of differences, Susan reminds us to be aware of who the divides are serving.
- In 2016, after receiving a heart transplant, Susan’s 19-year-old daughter died from cancer caused by the medication to help prevent her body from rejecting the heart.
- “When you do your very best, it’s going to be imperfect, but the next generation will build on that.”
- Micah 6:8: Do justice, love mercy and walk humbly with your God.
Did you enjoy today’s episode?
Check out my conversation with Peter Montoya. As an apolitical unification expert, Peter shares landscape for what has led us to the growing divide and practical strategies to improve our relationships now. It’s a conversation that reminds us that real change starts within each of us. Listen to Peter Montoya on ep. 376 now.
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RABBI SUSAN TALVE'S LIVE INSPIRED 7
- Q. What is the best book you’ve ever read?
A. Your Hearts, Your Scars by my daughter Adina Talve-Goodman and Caste by Isabel Wilkerson. - Q. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today?
A. I told everyone that I loved them, and I would like to feel that again without the bumps and bruises of disappointments and betrayals of life. - Q. Your house is on fire, all living things and people are out. You have the opportunity to run in and grab one item. What would it be?
A. Photos that aren't on my phone. - Q. You are sitting on a bench overlooking a gorgeous beach. You have the opportunity to have a long conversation with anyone living or dead. Who would it be?
A. There is a bench in Prospect Park with Adina's name on it. If I could sit on that bench with her and get some peace from this terrible guilt that I feel. - Q. What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
A. Less self, more God. - Q. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?
A. Take better care of your body and your teeth. You're going to pay for it later. - Q. It’s been said that all great people can have their lives summed up in one sentence. How do you want yours to read?
A. She was a good mother, a great grandmother and a good wife. She loved and was grateful to the congregation that gave her a way to serve the larger community.
