Leading the Way at JRF Women's RetreatSee the slideshow.

Reconstructionist Ruach can happen anywhere. On the last weekend in April, it happened at the Perlstein Conference Center in Wisconsin.

45 women, including four rabbis, plus the Scholar-in-Residence, Rabbi Leila Gal Berner, spent about 42 hours on an island in time, studying, davenning (praying, Jewish style), eating, singing, dancing and enjoying the weekend. There were women from all sizes of Jewish communities, professional women and those who have retired, from age 23 to age 89, of all shapes and sizes.

For me, it was an opportunity to think deeply about Torah, about my own stories and how they have shaped my life, and to luxuriate in the company of other women who are also serious Jews. As I listened and learned, I contemplated the meaning of my own life, and its impact on others.

As the oldest woman in the group, I was saddened that I am no longer able to join the joyous dancing after Havdalah, and that I no longer have enough breath to join in all the singing, but I was elated to be included, and to find that other women are interested in how I have lived almost ninety years, and to learn from me.

I only have one more thing to say. This should happen more often!