Dear Friends:
It is hot and it feels like the middle of summer. But it’s already August and, as we approach Labor Day and realize that summer will be winding down, I am again flooded with memories of many new beginnings over the years. I think of those days as a youngster on the farm (many years ago) in Moosup, Connecticut, beginning to feel regret about summer coming to an end, but also beginning to think about the promise of the New Year.
As we enjoy these beautiful (and slightly cooler) August days leading to the Jewish High Holidays, I want to again share a thought with you based on a message from my Chabad rabbi, Mendy Uminer:
We are free to make changes in our lives every day of the year. But the Hebrew month of Elul is a time when the spiritual atmosphere itself is a pro-actively helpful force, beckoning us to think about and upgrade our lives. G-d is much more palpably present, subtly encouraging us in our reflection and self-improvement, smilingly and lovingly cheering us on.
When we pause for a moment from life’s many distractions and turn to matters spiritual, those Elul breezes we’ll feel may be G-d’s hug.
Of course, a breeze is just a breeze, and – ultimately – the most important things in life are our choices. At the same time, certain breezes can put us in a better place, creating an opportunity for enriching our lives.
For the next month, the winds of change will be at our backs. This can be a time of inspiration. Sometimes it may be as subtle as a faint breeze, but it’s always perceptible if we’re spiritually alert.
Let’s be open to it. Let’s feel it and use the opportunity. The weather’s right and I’m starting to look forward to the Holidays.
Please join us this New Year.
Rosh Hashanah:
September 13 7:00 pm
September 14 9:30 am
September 15 9:30 am
Yom Kippur:
September 22 7:00 pm
September 23 9:30 am
