The Adams Street Shul

As the Shofar is again heard in the mornings, heralding the approach of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, the thoughts of every sensitive Jew turn inward.  What are our true responsibilities in life and are we living up to our potential?

Perhaps we can attain greater insight into these most serious matters if we become more and more aware of the fact that we are the only creations that have been given the gift of free choice. So important is this knowledge that we already read it at the dawn of creation: “Now that man has become like one of us, knowing good and evil …” (Genesis 3:22).

While this gift of freedom of choice is a wonderful dimension of life, it also presents us with a huge challenge. We often attempt to absolve ourselves of any wrongdoing by placing the blame on others or claiming that conflicting situations are the cause of our shortcomings. The month of Elul and the holidays which follow clearly teach us the error of this approach. When all is said and done, our personal decisions are those which shape our character and destiny.

We are living in a most dangerous and yet promising age. These stormy days clearly reflect the teachings of our prophets. We are so close to redemption, yet, G-d forbid, so far away. It thus becomes crucial for each and every one of us, individually, to take an honest spiritual stock. The goal must be to strengthen those qualities which define us as faithful bearers of the Torah. When we find deficiencies (and we probably all have some!) we must find the courage and strength to eradicate them from our lives.

The second Holy Temple was destroyed because of “Sinat Chinom” (needless hatred). I think it is time that we changed this to “Ahavat Chinom” (boundless love) for each other. It can be done, and now is the time to begin! 

A Happy and Healthy New Year to All Our Congregants and Friends!