"Indeed when we blow the shofar (the ram’s horn), we are meant to feel (at least) two contradictory things: the terrifying call to change our ways and a great happiness that the King is about to arrive."
Although contradictory, I think this makes some sense. Just think about dating . You're simultaneously excited for the prospect of an amazing person coming into your life and you're worried that you won't measure up so you feel nervous that you need to improve yourself.
The same mixed feelings apply to job searching, personal hobbies (like writing a book you're excited about but worried that you won't be able to succeed because of your personal flaws), and many other things.
Rosh Hashanah? Victory! That the Good Lord had given me the past year to have attempted to fathom the unfathomable and the hope that I have been given another. Win at Life!
Of all the holidays (I am not observant) Rosh Hashanah brings forth the sweetest memories ... of family and friends and the enjoyment of shared festvities (and the scent and taste of my grandmother's cooking: an amazing woman who could neither read nor write in any language but possessed a wisdom of the world, tolerance for all and a sense of justice - sadly missing in our Supreme Court. Her "teachings" remain with me still .... to thank G-d for all received, to be accountable for all you do and the old canard: never shame your family. L'Shana Tovah Hutka ... I offer my thank you - again- for your love, kindness and wisdom.
Rosh HaShanah is the day when the Jewish People not only crown God as The King of the World but also remind themselves that God is The King who is active in history and who will redeem the Jewish People if they return to observance of His Commandments
"Indeed when we blow the shofar (the ram’s horn), we are meant to feel (at least) two contradictory things: the terrifying call to change our ways and a great happiness that the King is about to arrive."
Although contradictory, I think this makes some sense. Just think about dating . You're simultaneously excited for the prospect of an amazing person coming into your life and you're worried that you won't measure up so you feel nervous that you need to improve yourself.
The same mixed feelings apply to job searching, personal hobbies (like writing a book you're excited about but worried that you won't be able to succeed because of your personal flaws), and many other things.
That's a really interesting response to the text Ryan.
Rosh Hashanah? Victory! That the Good Lord had given me the past year to have attempted to fathom the unfathomable and the hope that I have been given another. Win at Life!
Of all the holidays (I am not observant) Rosh Hashanah brings forth the sweetest memories ... of family and friends and the enjoyment of shared festvities (and the scent and taste of my grandmother's cooking: an amazing woman who could neither read nor write in any language but possessed a wisdom of the world, tolerance for all and a sense of justice - sadly missing in our Supreme Court. Her "teachings" remain with me still .... to thank G-d for all received, to be accountable for all you do and the old canard: never shame your family. L'Shana Tovah Hutka ... I offer my thank you - again- for your love, kindness and wisdom.
שנה טובה ומתוקה 🍎🍯🍷
Shana Tova!
Nice piece. I found it enlightening.
Thank-you for your kind feedback!
Even as a child the sound of the shofar reminded me of a military sound. A sound of war. The sound still gives me a tiny bit of panic.
An interesting point Nancy and there is a tension between that and having "a sweet new year".
Okay this made me cry. I mean , when I read the last two paragraphs I got goosebumps and tears came to my eyes. Bravo and thanks.
My pleasure Robin. I am so glad the piece spoke to you.
Rosh HaShanah is the day when the Jewish People not only crown God as The King of the World but also remind themselves that God is The King who is active in history and who will redeem the Jewish People if they return to observance of His Commandments
Now the question is: Is there a tension between that and having a sweet new year?