Preparing for the High Holidays

I often look to the night sky to see how long until the Jewish holiday.  Tonight, the moon will be a waning gibbous, approximately 20 days into the lunar cycle.  When we get to the new moon (moving counterclockwise on the picture), we will be at Rosh Hashana.

Tonight’s date is the 20th of the month of Elul.  The word “Elul” is said to be an acronym for Ani l’dodi v’dodi li  which means “I am my beloved’s, and my beloved is mine.” Elul is all about improving or repairing our relationships, whether with our loved ones, friends, or ourselves.  

It is traditional to spend time in the month of Elul getting mentally and emotionally ready for Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur.  This is the month for reflection and contemplation - to consider the past year and your role in it.  Here are some questions to help guide your preparations.

About the Past Year

• What did I accomplish that I’m proud of?

• Where did I fall short of my values or commitments?

• Were there times I hurt others?

• Did I waste opportunities to grow, learn, or connect?

• How did I handle challenges or setbacks?

Relationships

• Have I said or done things that strained my relationships?

• Who do I need to apologize to?

• Have I taken loved ones for granted?

• Did I listen with patience and compassion, or rush to judgment?

• How can I bring more kindness and generosity into my daily interactions?

Looking Ahead

• What habits or patterns do I want to change this year?

• What kind of person do I want to become in the year ahead?

• How can I make up for past mistakes?

• If I imagine myself one year from now, what do I hope to see?

I look forward to seeing you at the new moon, on Rosh Hashana.