YADAH, Sabbath, and the Song of Resilient Faith: Overcoming Injustice for True Inclusion
As I reflect on the timeless spiritual anthem, “Go Tell It on the Mountain,” its message resonates deeply within me. It’s a call to action, an imperative to bear witness to the injustices and barriers that stand in the way of true inclusion and a sense of belonging for all. In this essay, I’ll delve into the significance of the Hebrew word “YADAH” as a symbol of both praise and action, the concept of “Sabbath” as a reminder of rest and renewal, and how these principles are intertwined with my own ongoing journey of faith and trust that we will achieve a more inclusive and respectful society.
YADAH, pronounced “Yaw-daw,” holds a profound meaning that goes beyond the mere act of raising our hands in praise. It signifies a call to action, a reminder that our faith must be accompanied by tangible deeds. Inspired by moments of meditation and reflection, we are called to use our hands to dismantle the injustices that hinder true inclusion. I’ve come to realize that praise is not passive; it’s a catalyst for change. It’s about using our hands to make a difference, to uplift those who have been marginalized, and to confront the barriers that stand before us.
I’m reminded of a personal story that has shaped my understanding of this journey. Years ago, I encountered a close friend who faced workplace discrimination due to their ethnicity. Their experience served as a wake-up call, a moment when the call to action became resoundingly clear. Inspired by the principles of YADAH, I raised my hands in both praise and determination, vowing to be a voice for those who were silenced. Together, we embarked on a mission to challenge the discriminatory practices within the organization. It was a journey filled with obstacles, but our faith in the cause and the power of action sustained us.
This is where the concept of “Sabbath” comes into play. As we pressed forward in our fight for justice, we learned that taking time to rest and renew our spirits was crucial. Just as the Sabbath is a day of rest and reflection, our moments of respite allowed us to refocus, recharge, and renew our commitment to the cause. It reinforced our trust in the guiding hand of the Creator and the belief that, despite the challenges we faced, we would overcome.
In the end, our persistent efforts bore fruit, leading to a more inclusive and equitable workplace. It was a testament to the power of faith and action, a living example of the message embedded in “Go Tell It on the Mountain.” The song’s timeless refrain reminds us that no weapons formed against an inclusive and respectful society can prevail.
In conclusion, the journey from YADAH to Sabbath is a testament to the resilience of faith and the unwavering trust that we will overcome the injustices that hinder true inclusion. It’s a call to action, a reminder to use our hands to uplift and to dismantle barriers. My personal story is just one of countless examples of individuals who have raised their hands in both praise and determined action, fueled by the belief that, with faith and trust, we will create a society where all can truly belong.
