A timeless invitation

Shelley Goodman, President

As summer yields to the air of early autumn, Jewish communities around the world pause to mark the beginning of the year on the Hebrew calendar. Rosh Hashanah, literally “head of the year,” ushers in 10 days of introspection that culminate in Yom Kippur. Beyond festive dinners rich with apples dipped in honey, this season calls each of us to look back over the past 12 months — celebrating our successes, acknowledging our missteps, and setting intentions for the days ahead. In these moments of quiet reflection, we chart a course for both personal growth and communal renewal.

The Jewish High Holidays stand as a timeless invitation — a sacred pause in our busy lives for evaluation, reflection, and renewal. We are called to take stock of the past year; to look deeply at our actions, to honor our joys and the lessons of our missteps, and to prepare our hearts for a fresh start. This period is not simply one of routine observance; it is a dynamic journey of introspection that offers each of us the opportunity to rewrite, reinvigorate, and realign our paths toward greater integrity and meaning.

Rosh Hashanah falls on the first and second days of Tishrei, this year on Sept. 22 and 23. It marks the opening of the High Holy Days, known as the Days of Awe. Jewish tradition teaches that on these days, God reviews the deeds of every person, inscribing names in the Book of Life or the Book of Death for the coming year. The shofar’s piercing blasts serve as a universal wake-up call — an invitation to examine the ways we’ve honored our values, nurtured our relationships, and used our talents. At its core, this festival acknowledges that each new year offers a chance to begin again.

By reflecting on our achievements as well as our missteps, the path to growth is illuminated. We are encouraged not only to celebrate our successes but also to acknowledge where we fell short. Making amends for the mistakes of the past year is a courageous act of healing. It involves extending forgiveness to oneself and others, repairing broken bonds, and embracing the humility necessary for genuine growth. In doing so, we clear the slate, allowing a more compassionate understanding of who we are and who we aspire to be.

While self-evaluation is often solitary, Rosh Hashanah ultimately draws us closer to one another. Synagogue services echo with ancient melodies as elders share stories of past observances. In communal gatherings, we offer support when repentance feels heavy, and we rejoice together when we dare to hope for transformation.

As the Day of Atonement approaches, our reflections coalesce into concrete resolutions. We commit to more honest communication, regular acts of kindness, and mindful stewardship of our talents. By articulating these intentions, we strengthen the resolve to live according to our highest ideals.

Rosh Hashanah is both a reminder that change is possible and a challenge to ensure our actions match our aspirations. Armed with the lessons of the past year and bolstered by community, we step into the new year determined to write a sweeter, more meaningful story.

Beth Tikvah, lead by Rabbi Chorny and visiting Cantor David Edwards, offers all who wish to partake, the opportunity to worship and create memories together. If you are interested, go to www.bethtikvahnaples. org, contact us at office@beth tikvah.us or call 239-434-1818 for further information.

This year offers a fresh page in the Book of Life. Let us inscribe our names with humility, kindness, and courage.

Shanatovaumetuka— may you have a good and sweet year.