ELUL 5772 / SEPTEMBER 2012
Dearest brothers and sisters
The time of Elul is upon us once again. We anticipate Tishrei 1, the anniversary of the creation of the world.
As we travel through the Jewish calendar, we revisit the energy of ancient days, and use that energy to uplift ourselves. Elul-Tishrei embodies the energy of renewal after destruction, the energy of love and forgiveness, of empowerment and joy. This cycle is the story of love, betrayal and reconciliation.
After the betrayal of the Golden Calf, Moses tries to 'woo' G-d back into a relationship with the people. In Elul, G-d considers the proposition. On Rosh Hashanah G-d agrees to recommit. Yom Kippur is the Chupa.
This period is essentially the story of our lives: is there hope after loss? Can we rebuild after destruction? Can we touch heaven even as we stand on earth? Can we as individuals, family members and nations ever find true peace?
Elul is the month of self-examination and accounting, the month of Teshuva - of returning to G-d in repentance, with the understanding that destiny can be changed by prayer, and that forgiveness is inevitable. Elul is essentially a month of Divine mercy and forgiveness.
These are useful questions to ask oneself and ponder as a guide (ref: Simon Jacobson)
- In what areas of your life are you repeating old patterns that are damaging to you?
- How sensitive are you to the world around you?
- How often do you take initiative in your life?
- Do you have a real focus in your life? A larger goal?
- Do you want to connect to the Divine Essence within you?
Make Elul a time of introspection
It is with these thoughts, the daily sounding of the shofar and the recitation of Psalm 27, that I wish each of you members of the Saffer families a Shana Tova U'Metuka - May you have a sweet and happy New Year, written and sealed for the most revealed blessings!!
Brotherhood Endureth!
Shana Saffer - Chairman 2011 / 2012
