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Bruce Springsteen’s “Born to Run,” the title track on his third album, took approximately six months to finish. From the year he conceptualized the film Avatar until it was finally released in theaters took James Cameron fifteen years. Mastering the Art of French Cooking by the inimitable Julia Child was a work in progress for nearly ten years before its publication. And Matthew Weiner had to pitch his idea for the show Mad Men for seven years until it was finally picked up and produced.  These and other outstanding creations are featured in Carmel Hagen’s article, "In Praise of Slow Mastery: 10 Great Achievements that Took Time". But here is an invitation for personal consideration this Shabbat and in the weeks ahead: could we all endeavor to be #11 on this list, recognizing that each of us is a wonderful achievement still in formation?

This past Friday marked the first day of Elul, the final month in the Hebrew calendar prior to Rosh Hashanah and the start of a New Year. Jewish tradition understands Elul as an critical period for reflection, introspection, and preparation with regard to every facet of our lives. By directing intentional focus to our relationships – with others, with ourselves, with God – and seeking repair where necessary, we can enter a New Year actually feeling renewed. Essentially, the recognition that we need this month of Elul for continued personal work and growth is an acknowledgement that the realization and actualization of our best selves takes time. 

May we all embrace this truth in the year ahead and strive, individually and collectively, to make 5781 a year of blessing and new possibilities, a year we will be able to look back upon a year from now as one that was a truly great achievement.