I'll get to the cooking part in a minute (hey, this is a Jewish website).

If you clicked "Healing," mazel tov! Congratulations! You've made it to most important part of your spiritual journey, the first big step to unshakeable faith that the future holds God, too.

You will make it through the days ahead. To help you continue to heal and grow, I've posted a link to the informal conversation I had with the content-manager who helped me develop this site. I hope you will allow some of my personality and belief to download themselves through your speakers. It's hard to read if you're crying. Listen, instead.

In Judaism, religion and people are indissoluble. Community and (yes) food are fundamental to our faith. I am honored you have chosen to share your life with me. I've walked your path before, and I can retrace my footsteps with you.

Jews speak of the divine spark, the little bit of God's holiness in each of us. You matter dearly. As you heal, kindle your little piece of the divine so it burns eternally. Contrary to all evidence, you've learned life indeed is a precious blessing.

I told a reporter from the Houston Chronicle in 2010, "Just because you are going through something difficult, it doesn't mean you can't wake up and find the joy in life."

This site is intended to help you make it through the proverbial midnight of the soul and find that joy. Spiritualfirstaid.org isn't intended to heal you completely - just to see you through initial despair, to give you the love and validation you need to get through the near future.

Even if you are not a practicing Jew or, even a Jew, I invite you to visit this site regularly to participate in my blog, to listen to my real-time teachings, and to explore weekly Bible portions.

Jews don't believe in converting others - we are people of the Book. And do we have a lot of books! The Talmud, the Torah, Midrash, all contain endless dialogues across centuries by people like you who are struggling.

Please, take the hand this website extends and begin your journey to life. L'Chaim!

For a very powerful healing experience, please join us 6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 18 at Bayou Manor, 4141 S. Braeswood as I conduct an ecumenical Shabbat Healing Service. This event is for anyone in need of healing of any sort, as well as family and friends. We welcome you with open hearts and look forward to meeting with you. Download brochure (PDF)