Throughout the eight days of Passover, we don't just eat matzah; we also strictly avoid chametz, which is grain that has become moist and could potentially ferment and become leavened bread. The entire house must be scrubbed from top to bottom to make sure no crumb of chametz remains. It's also a good time to clean out metaphorical chametz: buried feelings, sour like fermentation, that hide away in the corners of our minds and hearts; the inflated ego puffed up like yeasted bread; objects that clutter the house and get in the way of living a plainer, simpler, more connected life. Please take a moment to think about—and, if you like, to share—what chametz you would like to clean out of your life this spring.


haggadah Section: Yachatz