L’shanah Tovah

I’m not Jewish but I know many who are.  As a practicing Catholic, the only holiday that remains of religious significance to me is Easter because it is the illustration of the fallibility of man and the truly forgiving and omnipotent power of God.

In case you are not aware,  “l’shanah tovah” is the greeting many Jewish people say to one another at the start of their new year, Rosh Hashanah.  In the past, I made the mistake of simply saying “happy new year”  which was recognized but now, after some research, I realize does not service this High Holy day justice.

Unlike January 1, when we all resolve to  drink less, get healthier, read more…etc…Rosh Hashanah marks the first of a 10-day Repentance, which ends with Yom Kippur, the day of Atonement. The new year is an opportunity to resolve with others, not just yourself.   It is not just a resolution but a renewal of our faith in others and their abilities to forgive and have faith in us.   Rather than asking God directly for forgiveness for the wrongs done against others, you ask for forgiveness from the person you have wronged.

We often downplay the important role that  religion and faith should play in our lives.  A foundational element and structure for faith and forgiveness.  As beings who are fallible, we will always have the opportunity to renew and to start over.   God’s role is as a mentor and guide of the transformational power that love and faith can have in our interactions with others and ourselves.

Quote of the day:  “A righteous man falls down seven times and gets up.” – King Solomon, Proverbs, 24:16

L’Chaim! 

your favorite Gentile xo