New Member Profile: Derek Nor

BASICS:

I am Derek Nor.

YOU: Tell us about you.

Originally from Texas, I lived several places before finding my way here. Long ago Minnesota never even crossed my mind, but now it is my favorite place I have lived. Currently I live in Plymouth on west Medicine Lake with two cats and a roommate. One day, I do hope to start a family of my own.

When not engaged in spiritual studies I enjoy getting outdoors for hiking and road cycling. I spend considerable time engaged in various volunteer opportunities wherever I can be of service. My career path has brought me to regional government where the work I do contributes to greater good. Next steps in career may involve a return to school in pursuit of a psychology degree, a field to which I feel called more than my current technology career.

BELONG: What does belonging to a synagogue mean to you?

I spent a good deal of my life disinterested in community. I thought I had to go it alone. It was possible to operate that way for a time, but inevitably it ceased to work. When I became ready to try another way, I found at Bet Shalom a warm, welcoming, diverse and engaged community. I arrived very much a spiritual seeker, and there was a place for me from the start among those who ask questions, have willingness to learn and remain present. My soul has been nourished in this community in ways I never could have imagined. In fact, through this true community experience I have begun to discover more about who I really am, which is a tremendous gift.

HERE: Why did you choose Bet Shalom?

I didn’t really “choose” Bet Shalom per se, certainly not in the sense of choosing a brand or a dentist. It just sort of entered my awareness and life at a time when I was ready to become a member of a kehillah kedosha, a sacred community. When we found each other, I rapidly felt at home, and before I could even technically become a member, I made a commitment by accepting a service opportunity. The AV/tech team are responsible for sound in the sanctuary and streaming services and events to members’ homes. I enthusiastically invite anyone with interest and the slightest technical inclination to join this group. It’s fun and rewarding, and it really makes a difference. Moreover, involvement in genuine service offers unimaginable rewards to both the community and the volunteer.