Instant feedback. Constant encouragement. Praise for even the tiniest accomplishment. That's what I need and that's what I love about the WiiFit. I know there are folks out there with far greater inner resources than I, people who don't require someone else to cheer them on every single minute, who are nourished by a voice within. Not me. I need a WiiFit coach not only for workouts, but for my life.

"Don't worry, Deb!" "Great job - keep it up!" "You're almost there!"

Of course, there are people who do this professionally. They call themselves "life coaches." Or "therapists." Or "spiritual directors." Or even "rabbis."

I need something more. I want someone who stays with me after the 50-minte hour is over, after the service has ended. Someone who whispers that word of encouragement or correction or comfort when I am "walking by the way, when I lie down and when I rise up." Whenever.

Isn't that someone supposed to be God? If only I could hear God's voice the way I hear the voice of the WiiFit! An instant feedback loop for the spirit:

"Extend that hand a bit more - that's it, Deb!"
"Try hearing not just with your ears, but with your heart. Yes, like that."
"Be patient. Show more love. Yes, even to that nudnik in your office."
"You can't fix it. It's OK. You did what you could."
"Open your eyes! Pause. Be grateful. Good for you!"

This month of Elul, it seems to me, is about learning to listen for the voices in our lives which move us forward and keep us going. The voices without and within.

Oh, and I've lost three pounds.