The process of reflection and committing ourselves out loud gives us the opportunity for feedback from our close friends and colleagues.
Today I joined the MaliJew Club at . My heart was filled with admiration to witness David Bozin, who started the club over six years ago, now the club’s mentor, give the talk to the students about Rosh Hashanah. David explained that Rosh Hashanah is a time to set goals for the coming year. He invited the students to first reflect on both their accomplishments and shortcomings of last year and to share their Rosh Hashanah resolutions for the New Year.
The process of reflection and committing ourselves out loud gives us the opportunity for feedback from our close friends and colleagues. When we communicate openly, regarding our personal journey, it provides us with the opportunity to eliminate our blind spots and open ourselves to true growth and improvement.
The process that David led the students through prepared them well for the moment of renewal that Rosh Hashanah provides, for each of us to become the great people we truly are.
On my drive home, I was once again reminded of the horrific tragedies that have occurred over the last few days in the Middle East, particularly in Libya. I cannot help but wonder what kind of abomination could instigate so much rage, cause such deep pain to innocent people, and spawn ensuing fear throughout the world.
In such situations, especially being so far away, perhaps we feel helpless. After all, what can we do? As Rosh Hashanah is upon us, we can put aside our differences and remember who we really are as human beings, the only of G-d’s creatures who have the potential to bring tremendous light into the universe.
For thousands of years we have observed Rosh Hashanah as the ultimate opportunity to reach deep into our hearts and pray for the removal of our flaws and forgiveness for our wrong doings.
This year, by Divine Providence, we were also made aware of our power as human beings, a power that can be easily be abused. On Rosh Hashanah, we can use this power to open our hearts and pray for a higher light to shine on all of humanity. The simple sound of the Shofar produced by the breath is a reminder of the breath of life that unites us as humans, regardless of race, religion, color or creed. Following David’s lead, before the Shofar is sounded on Rosh Hashanah, I will invite all present with me to join me in prayer to invoke true peace for all of humanity, and for the wisdom, knowledge and understanding to make this a reality in our lifetime.
I welcome you to join me during this auspicious time. May we merit this higher light and may it endure forever. Shabbat Shalom!
Shalom! שלום!