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Do we remember all of the personal, introspective work we did during this year’s Holy Days, the commitments we made to ourselves, to one another, and to God just four days ago - to be more patient, more accepting of difference, and more appreciative of the good in our lives throughout the year unfolding before us? I sincerely hope we do recall our vows for personal improvement and hope as well, that they were more than nice, fleeting thoughts, for mere days following the conclusion of Yom Kippur, it is already apparent that the depth and integrity of our commitments are already being tested.

The safe spaces we work to maintain at Sinai notwithstanding, as individual citizens with values shaped by a multiplicity of variables, we understandably hold impassioned feelings and thoughts concerning the profoundly important events transpiring on the national stage: this week’s Presidential debate, the implications of a Supreme Court nomination, the impending Senatorial, Congressional, and other elections, the seriousness of the pandemic, the reality of racial inequities and injustice, and any number of additional topics which by their very nature elevate our emotions and feelings and get one’s blood to pumping. Unquestionably, it is in this personal state that the promises for greater self-awareness, thoughtful discourse, and acceptance of difference fly out the window. Recognizing that the lens through which we read notes such as this is seldom – if ever – neutral, I will simply add what should be an obvious note - this column is directed to all in our community, regardless of political leanings.

Considering the number of issues which might raise one’s blood pressure, it strikes me that the Festival of Sukkot, which coincides with the onset of Shabbat this week, could very well be the ideal antidote. Jewish tradition teaches us that the roof of our sukkah must be designed with natural products that enable us to see the stars when sitting inside of our sukkah. Looking up to the nighttime (or daylight) sky and pausing to acknowledge its immense and unfathomable reach not only fosters one’s appreciation of God as Creator, it also serves – at least in my estimation - as a humbling and, at this particular time,  important reminder of our ultimate place in the universe.  

Appreciating that there is something far grander, more significant that any one of us is most certainly not an indication that we should therefore care less about the matters of consequence confronting our country – far from it.  But perhaps this year’s observance of Sukkot – even if that translates to simply stepping outside to look up at the stars – can serve as a timely reminder that there is more to our universe and thus more upon which to form our emotions and passions. And maybe, such an appreciation will better enable each of us to remain true to our personal commitments during this New Year. May it be so. Chag sameach.