Those who dwell on and long for sense-pleasure

Are born in a world of separateness.

But let them realize they are the Self

And all separateness will fall away.

--Mundaka Upanishad

Aside from being a completely absorbing, astute observation about family life and spirituality, Myla Goldberg's Bee Season has introduced me to the work of Avraham Abulafia, a mystic from the 13th century. At first I thought she'd invented this character, but he was a real Kabbalist and righteous fella.

Have you read Bee Season? Put down whatever you're doing and go get a copy.