Here’s a great idea — rest from Friday evening through Saturday evening. Nothing new, of course. It’s the Jewish Sabbath, and “don’t work” is the watchword of the day.
So it’s interesting that several organizations are promoting a National Day of Unplugging from sunset on Friday, March 4, through Saturday, March 5.
Not only do they want us to turn off our cell phones, they’re even selling a cell phone sleeping bag for a mere $7.99! In addition to stashing your phone, you’re supposed to not go shopping, and keep the TV and computer turned off. The goal is “respite from the business (and busyness) of our everyday lives.”
The unplugging idea is just the first of ten ideas that make up the Sabbath Manifesto, which calls itself “a creative project designed to slow down lives in an increasingly hectic world.”
There really is nothing new under the sun, is there? Anyway, here’s the Sabbath Manifesto:
1. Avoid Technology
2. Connect with loved ones.
3. Nurture your health.
4. Get outside.
5. Avoid commerce.
6. Light candles.
7. Drink wine.
8. Eat bread.
9. Find silence.
10. Give back.
Here’s a link: National Day of Unplugging
I think it’s a little sad that it takes a website with a sign-up button to get us to do what’s 1) basic to Judaism, and 2) basic good sense. But whatever it takes!
SRQ Jew 
An additional thought after reflection on my comment above: This smacks of proslytising by the orthodox community.
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I’m not certain what ‘avoid commerce means’- no shopping for personal stuff or no business endeavors?
If I am outdoors may I swim golf tennis or cycle, etc?
If I unplug how do I communicate with family and friends across the country or the pond?
The concept has a great many flaws as does the so-called orthodox ritual of observance and neither has relevance to our modern global life.
Sounds good on paper but does not pass the smell test in practice.
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Thanks Jennifer! So glad you are recovering! I found this interesting. Went to the link (bless this wonderful folks) and realized I’d make a different list. So i did. Sent it on to people. I do not think of shabbos as a time to “recharge” – it ain’t about getting ready for the week. I think of it as a time to sink into the joy and gratitude of being alive, of being held in something so vast I can only sing songs of gratitude as I fast from the encroachments of daily life and lunacy. Of being in the peace that is natural and that my soul calls “home” – of praying for healing and peace…and for the mind to return from the exile of awareness of the sacred. Loved how this stirred me. I appreciate the group’s intent/efforts, and yours to pass it on! Love, your sista, krayna
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