For those who observe, may you have both an easy and meaningful fast.
I took some time today to include a few quotations that I found meaningful and helpful as we approach this Jewish Day of Atonement:
“Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, is the holy of holies of Jewish time. It is that rarest of phenomena, a Jewish festival without food. Instead, it is a day of fasting and prayer, introspection and self-judgment when, collectively and repeatedly, we confess our sins and pray to be written into G-d’s Book of Life.” -Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks.
Not sure if it is a sin to focus on the forthcoming break-the-fast during the actual fast, but I think everyone does that, right? Yes, a rare Jewish festival without food that is then immediately followed by a food-laden festival. I do like that.
Seriously though, I find great meaning in Yom Kippur, and the following quote means a lot:
“You can’t undo anything you’ve already done, but you can face up to it. You can tell the truth. You can seek forgiveness. And then let G-d do the rest.” -Tertullian.
And let me finish with a solid quote from the Torah:
“…In the seventh month, on the tenth day of the month, you shall afflict your souls, and you shall not do any work … For on that day, he shall provide atonement for you to cleanse you from all your sins before the L-RD.” Leviticus 16:29-30. “G-d’s name was so sacred to the Jews that it was pronounced only once a year by the high priest when giving the blessing on Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement.” -Lev. 23:27
Most importantly to me, “We can emerge from the holy day with an increased capacity for openheartedness, for love, and connection.” -Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D.
So ends my most religious-oriented newsletter ever. And whether you observe Yom Kippur or not, may the coming year of 5785 be one of peace, openheartedness, love, and connection in your life.
Warmest wishes,
Jeff