This Sunday night Jews around the world will begin celebrating Rosh Hashanah, which is the Jewish New Year. This is a somber holiday; no late night partying or kissing at midnight. It is a deeply religious holiday. The truly observant spend most of the holiday at the synagogue attending services. For most it’s about keeping with the tradition of the special foods and blessings. And for me, it’s a day of reflection and spiritual stocktaking; my own self-appraisal, my review 365. Just as I’ve launched and managed the annual performance review process throughout my career in HR, in my personal life, ‘tis is the season dedicated to self-appraisal and celebrating the possibility of change, renewal and a better tomorrow.
The tradition of Rosh Hashanah is to gather together as a community to honor the history of our people and our heritage, and our ties and connections to others. It’s the time of year to think about my relationships; those I may have hurt and need to apologize to and make amends, and where I could potentially do better and give more, be more accepting and loving. Rosh Hashanah is my annual wake-up call to resolve to be a better person and do the best I can for my family, my community and the clients I serve. It’s the time of year to re-commit to self-improvement and growth. It’s not a commitment to be perfect, just to take steps, however tiny, towards greater meaning, contributions, and fulfillment.
One of my favorite holiday rituals is Tashlich (loosely translated “casting off”, or letting go.) On the first afternoon of Rosh Hashanah, it is customary to go to a body of water (ocean, river, pond, etc.) and perform the Tashlich ceremony, in which we ceremonially cast our sins into the water. While I haven’t been to a synagogue to perform the traditional Tashlich ritual in years, I’ve created my own symbolic ritual to let go of what is no longer working for me to leave room for change and to embrace new beginnings. Here goes:
Breathe. Let go.
There is nothing I can do about the wrongs of yesterday.
This very moment is the only one I have for sure.
I am ready to cast away all my jealousies, selfishness, and fears.
I ask for the courage to let go; to
Stop blaming, judging & criticizing
Stop nagging, scolding, or arguing
Stop regretting the past
Stop living in fear
I ask for the wisdom to grow; to
Accept others
Take each day as it comes and cherish the moment
Laugh & be cheerful
Love more fully
Live my dreams
I can. I will. I am ready!
Wishing everyone, whether observing the holiday or not, a life filled with meaning, fulfillment and joy. May we all have the courage and stamina to continue on our personal journey toward being the best that we can be as individuals and as a community!
