BS’D
Hitbodedut = private secluded one-on-one ‘talk’ with HaKadosh Baruch Hu – here we let go of our doubts, fear and confusion. It is a time to sing, dance, cry, laugh or even remain silent through quiet contemplation.
Ideally one should practice hitbodedut during the evening times when the world has slowed down its pace. At night, businesses are closed and the materialistic pull on life is loosened. Men can find their connection to the Borei Olam through walking the fields and surrounded by nature. Women can reach lofty heights by just sitting on their porch, yard or in their home.
At first, it may not come easy to just open up a conversation with Hashem. It is a good idea to warm up by offering words of heartfelt thanks to Hashem for all of the gifts that He has given you individually and to the nation of Israel collectively.
Feel free to go into detail over some of the things and events that you are particularly grateful for like the washing machine that works, water that comes from the faucet, car, roof over your head, food, check that didn’t bounce, eyes that can see, people that make you smile, zechut to do mitzvot and teshuva, etc. As we step out of the humdrum routine of life and settle our mind we begin to notice the endless list of reasons we need to be thankful for yet may have not noticed before. After voicing our appreciation the ‘buried’ issues will surface and your heart will stir with yearning and closeness to Hashem.
