“As long as the candle is still burning, it is still possible to accomplish and to mend.” – Rabbi Yisrael Salanter
Rosh Hashanah marks the beginning of the Jewish new year (5777) and a time for solitude and self reflection. After a two month hiatus from writing and nourishing the soul – what better time than now to reflect on the year that passed and look towards the year to come? So here, my friends, I share my thoughts with you in a complete state of solitude and reservation.
Avinu Malkeinu, may you prescribe us the courage to stand up for those who suffer, and the patience to act with loving kindness towards ourselves and our neighbors. Avinu Malkeinu, may you provide us the strength and wisdom to overcome the obstacles that life throws our way. Avinu Malkeinu, may you grant us the gift of self awareness and the ability to change in the face of any wrongdoings.
In the ten days leading up to Yom Kippur, I want to take a moment and count the blessings as I reflect on the hardships of the year that passed:
The blessing of friendships that turned into family.
The blessing of acceptance that everything in life is unpredictable.
The blessing of breathing, living, and giving.
The blessing of joy, laughter, and amusement in daily encounters and experiences.
The blessing of determination and perseverance.
The blessing of curiosity, creation, and freedom of expression.
The blessing of the right to vote and the ability to make an impact on generations to come.
The blessing of following my dreams and aspirations when no one else believed I could.
The blessing of embracing my imperfections because, hell, they’re what make me unique.
The blessing of helping those around me when I needed a helping hand.
The blessing of learning to trust my intuition and following my heart.
The blessing of confidence in overcoming fear and uncertainty.
And most of all – the blessing of resiliency and the ability to bounce back up when everything around me seemed to crumble.
My inner flame is still burning and pushes me beyond boundaries I never even knew existed.
L’Shana Tova. May we all succumb to ever-growing compassion and be written in the book of life.
Yours Truly,
Nomad