I have been asked to present a D’var at an event
that will take place in August (P. R’eih)and will quote from that work here:

…All of these laws become the subject of discussion in modern times. How do they relate to us, who are not agrarian, who do not live in tribal groups, who follow a faith that is now ancient, not newly forming? We read, we argue, we discuss, we wrestle with the commandments of
then, and try to discern their meaning now. This,
I believe, is the the real foundation of our faith – not following blindly, but questioning everything and making very personal decisions in how to lead our lives, because intention matters.

…in addition to the rules, God also handed down
intelligence, logic, and reason. I think God expects us to use them, even in the questioning
of Mitzvot [or halachic law, for that matter].

All of these commandments are like stones we use in building an individual character. Each of us must decide which stones will best support and define us, which stones have purpose and meaning, and which get in the way of our connection to
God and fellow man. In the end, our thoughtful intention, our kavannah, becomes visible to others through our actions, through the stones we choose. Every stone is beautiful, and our personal choice of what is most precious to us presents a striking pattern of an individual personality. ………………………

As a calligrapher, a quote I learned early on has
stayed with me, applicable to so many situations.
‘Within the limits of our craft we cannot have too much freedom.’ The human spirit, in its quest
for spiritual communion, has quite enough limits
imposed by modern life and daily responsibility.
Give us freedom – religious freedom, spiritual
freedom. We are timid enough because we are only
human; we need every encouragement to engage our
own souls, and seek our God.