Thought of the Week: Rosh Hashannah - 5778

A GOOD YEAR AHEAD!

Tradition teaches us that we must walk into Rosh Hashanah with happiness and trust.  A person should feel privileged to stand and converse with the Master of the World on the very special day of re-coronation, and trust Hashem that only good is awaiting us in the coming year.

At the same time, when hearing the blasts of the Shofar, we should keep in mind what Maimonides states: "Even though the sounding of the Shofar on Rosh Hashanah is a biblical decree, it has an intimation, as if to say; Arise from your slumber you who are asleep, search your deeds and repent, remember your Creator."

A successful Rosh Hashanah, and High Holyday season, is one that balances happiness and awareness.  Ignoring the awesomeness of the period is a misfortune.  However, living through it without optimism and confidence is tragic.

Let us all utilize these wonderful days of closeness to Hashem with a commitment to our nation and our tradition, and thus merit a year of blessings and happiness.

On behalf of Miriam, our children and myself, I would like to take this opportunity to wish the Kehillah a Shanah Tova.

May we all merit to have a year of physical and spiritual blessing and growth.