Blessed, Yet Stressed: Liminal Moments

by Nina Fondiller Woldin

What are the most transformative moments that you remember?

Life cycle transformations are referred to as liminal moments because we emerge from them in some way permanently changed and transformed. The planning and preparation leading up to these liminal moments push us to acknowledge and find meaning in the transition as we move from one stage of life to the next. Marking our lives with life cycle events is one way Judaism works to bring order to chaotic times of change and transition in our lives.

Earlier this summer, during a span of 3 weeks, I traveled cross-country to welcome a new grandchild, moved my mother to a different assisted living facility as we celebrated her 96th birthday, and hosted an engagement party for my youngest daughter. I feel very blessed by my wonderful family, and at the same time, very stressed from the output of emotional and physical energy of these liminal moments!

 

I feel very blessed by my wonderful family, and at the same time, very stressed
from the output of emotional and physical energy of these liminal moments!

Fortunately, I have participated in Chai Mitzvah’s Jewish Journeys curriculum, a helpful guide to this experience to share with friends or to explore on your own. Start your own Jewish Journeys Chai Mitzvah group, either book-group style or through an organization such as your synagogue, school, JCC, or Federation.

And may your next blessing be less stressing!

2 responses to “Blessed, Yet Stressed: Liminal Moments”

1. Barbara Altschuler says:

   July 31, 2025 at 10:41 am

   Dear Nina , you are truly a blessing a treasure yourself ! Wishing you & your family many more 💜Barbara

   Reply
2. Nina Woldin says:

   August 13, 2025 at 10:01 am

   ❤️ Thank you!

   Reply