What an inspiring Yom Kippur, unlike any other! Beautiful minyans, graced by evacuees from the Glass fire.
Hashem, on occasion, we have given you a difficult time. On occasion, you have given us a difficult time (need we elaborate?). But Yom Kippur is about exploring the essence of our relationship, that runs deeper than all of that. Like the love of a father to a child. Unbreakable. Eternal. Essential.
So like a father who wants the best for their child, bless us for a year of only revealed good!
Pictured: Just before the onset of Yom Kippur, it is customary for parents to bless their children with the priestly blessing.
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And just like that, we are on to the next Holiday. Sukkot.
We head outdoors into a temporary structure, covered by branches and leaves. Why?
We install an alarm system, and it makes us feel that our home is protected. We plan our calendar, and think that our schedule is set. We pack a suitcase, and feel that we are prepared for whatever
awaits us.
The reality, however, is that while we need to take all of these necessary steps, protection, success, and everything else, is dependent on one more not-to-be-forgotten element: Hashem. It is when we surrender to this reality that the blessings can flow, unobstructed. This is the symbolism of the Sukkah, where we eat, drink, relax, (some even sleep) under the canopy of foliage, under the open sky.
In a world that seems ever more chaotic, let's take this week to be mindful of the Divine protection that will carry us above the waves.