[img]96|left|||no_popup[/img]Dateline Jerusalem – For most of the world that follows the Gregorian calendar, we are in the year 2012, from Jan. 1 through Dec. 31. But at sundown in a couple of weeks beginning on Sunday, Sept. 16, the first of Tishri, according to the Hebrew calendar it will be the Jewish new year, the year 5773, counting from the day of the creation of mankind, Adam. While Jews throughout the world will be observing Rosh Hashana, they will be doing so in prayer in synagogues, reflecting and repenting, instead of celebrating and partying with champagne and noisemakers. In Israel, during the Hebrew month of Elul, which immediately precedes Tishri, we usher in the new year by listening to the shofar, a ram's horn. It is blown every morning as a wakeup call to return to G-d.
It is that time of year again when we sincerely ask for forgiveness from our friends, foes and others for any intentional and unintentional transgressions we may have committed against our fellow man. It is also a time of repentance when we ask for forgiveness for our transgressions related to G-d. It is during this time of reflection and repentance that we are judged by G-d. Hopefully our requests for forgiveness and sincere apologies will be accepted on the first attempt. If not, we must ask again, up to three times. If, after showing true regret, we still are not forgiven, we are no longer held accountable for the transgression. It automatically transfers to the person who holds a grudge and refuses to accept our apology.
Since I often am unaware of my unintentional transgressions, and therefore unaware of whom to apologize, I will send out this mass request for forgiveness. Although the manner in which it is expressed is not personal, please believe it truly is sincere. If I have said anything or done anything that has caused any of you distress or pain, or injured you in any way, by word, action, or deed, or in any way at all, please forgive me.
L'shana tovah tikatev v'taihatem. That means, “May you be inscribed and sealed (in the book of life) for a good year.” Therefore, may G-d inscribe you and your loved ones in the Book of Life for a long life and a year of health, happiness, prosperity, tranquility, peace and safety. May you have a good, sweet and favorable new year. Remember that a bad decree is removed by repentence, prayer and charity.
L'hitraot. Shachar
