CHABAD OF BOERNE
As we stand on the threshold of the Jewish New Year, Yom Kippur arrives with a powerful message of renewal and forgiveness.
This Day of Atonement offers us a sacred opportunity to reflect on the past year, seek atonement for our shortcomings, and renew our commitment to the values of compassion and understanding.
This year, our reflections are particularly poignant. We have witnessed a troubling rise in anti-Semitism and, most tragically, the devastating attack on Oct. 7 in Israel, which has cast a shadow over our collective sense of security and peace.
For many, the atrocities of the Oct. 7 attack are a replay of the horrors of the Holocaust. How does the world allow such atrocities? How did human rights organizations not swiftly condemn such monstrous acts?
How have we fallen into the depravity of moral relativism and moral equivalence? But even more disturbing — how do so many young people not understand right from wrong? How do our youth, living the beautiful American dream, not understand the dangers of extremism and bigotry?
Maimonides, the medieval Jewish philosopher and sage (Spain 1138-1204) teaches that forgiveness has three components; regret for the past misdeeds, resolve for the future, and asking forgiveness of those we have wronged. Perhaps, that is where we should begin.
Yom Kippur invites us to engage in deep introspection, to examine our actions and attitudes, and to seek reconciliation not only with those around us but also within ourselves. It is a time to confront our own flaws and to ask for forgiveness from those we may have wronged.
But forgiveness, as we are taught, is not merely an act of absolution; it is a transformative process that heals and renews. Forgiveness is essential, especially when faced with hatred and violence. It is an act of courage and resilience, allowing us to rise above the hurt and pain inflicted upon us.
It is not about forgetting or condoning the actions that have caused harm, but about liberating ourselves from the chains of anger and bitterness. In doing so, we create space for healing and renewal, both for ourselves and for our communities.
In that spirit, I ask forgiveness of our youth. I am sorry that we have not taught you better. I am sorry that as a society, we have not placed more value on human life and decency. I am saddened that G-d has been banished from our public discourse and He has been replaced with folly and hatred. I am sorry that our institutions of higher learning have failed to educate you properly.
Let us renew our dedication to creating a community where understanding and compassion prevail over division and hostility. Let us strive to be a source of light and hope, even in the face of darkness.
Let us remember that shared values of kindness, justice, and solidarity have become more important than ever. Let us remember that our journey toward forgiveness is not only a personal one but a communal endeavor. Now is the time to set intentions for how we wish to live and interact with others and ask what type of country we wish for our children and grandchildren.
May this Yom Kippur be a time of profound reflection and healing for all of us. May it inspire us to act with kindness and to approach each other with open hearts and minds.
May we engage our children and students in earnest discussion about right and wrong, goodness and evil, and the dangers of terrorism and fanaticism.
G’mar Chatimah Tovah — may we all be inscribed and sealed for a good year, one filled with hope, unity, and a renewed commitment to our shared humanity.
The Jewish community will observe Yom Kippur and Yizkor Memorial services on Oct. 11-12. For more, please visit www.JewishBoerne.org/chagim.
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