Random Thoughts
We are so lucky! A majority of the world population only has one chance to make a New Year’s resolution. But not the Jews...we get two chances. Our first opportunity is fast approaching as we’ll soon celebrate Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. This is a time of self-examination, a time to reflect on the previous year’s goals and aspirations. Did we achieve those things we set out to do? Were they realistic? How can we redirect our focus to increase the value of our days ahead?
This is going to be an exciting year for CST with our Family Education Team emphasizing the theme, “Be a Mensch.” Hopefully, we will lead by example for our families, friends and community by doing good works. Attending a weekly Shabbat service and participating in the Oneg afterwards is an easy way to make a difference in the greater CST community. You might also choose to do volunteer work for one of the many Jewish agencies in the greater Detroit area, like Yad Ezra or the Jewish Community Center. We are only limited by our imagination if our goal is to become among the righteous.
Take a moment, while you are shedding the skin of last year, and make a plan for what you will do in the year ahead. Include your family in this discussion as well. I am reminded of growing up in Northwest Detroit with my two brothers and sister. Every Friday night, we would sit at the table and my mother would insist on a “Topic of Discussion.” We actually took turns preparing (I had to research Abe Lincoln) for this weekly event. I smile now as I think back to those evenings. While I couldn’t wait until the dinner ended so I could join my friends outside, I learned a little history, politics, and religion, and a lot about the personalities of my family.
And so should you…During this preparation for the High Holidays, spend some time together. Explore the word “Mensch”. What does it mean to you? Most of all, enjoy being with each other, both at home and at our wonderful temple. Make a plan, as an individual or as a family, to volunteer your time, no matter how little or great, for a cause you believe in. The rewards are fantastic.
L’Shana Tova!
Paul