By Carol Ann Schwartz
During these heart-wrenching times, those things I find meaningful matter more than ever. Among these, I love the way Rosh Hashanah’s rituals take us on a spiritual journey between the most intimate, private, deeply personal introspection to a global, communal, shared experience.
We are connected as a people across time and space, across generations — in times of peace and war, in quarantine and in exile, and everywhere we have put down roots. And this connection persists, even when our day-to-day opinions differ. And it bridges the sacred and the profane, a time to reflect on our actions and be reminded that, no matter how small, they matter.
I find the Selichot prayers especially meaningful, particularly reciting the 13 Attributes of Mercy, ancient prayers of forgiveness recited throughout the month of Elul by Sephardic Jews and this Saturday night by Ashkenazi. I know many others will be saying them too, some alone, others at synagogue services. When I do it, I keep my eyes closed, each time getting a little bit louder. It is personal, and then for everyone.
As I reflect on the past year, I know that the difference we made together is bigger than the impact any of us could have made as individuals. This is why this community, our community, is more important than ever. As we turn from one year to another, I thank you. For being with me as part of our diverse Hadassah family. For showing the resilience and strength we all get from coming together in community.
And so even in dark times, I wish you and our entire Hadassah family an extra-sweet new year. L’shanah tovah u’metukah.
May 5785 be filled with love, hope, healing and inspiration.
