Jerusalem, Israel - Sept. 3, 2024 - It’s time for a shift in perspective.
The news from Israel has ranged from bad to horrific, especially with the devastating murders of six hostages. The frustration and helplessness have led to finger-pointing and blame, leaving many feeling depressed and ready to give up.
Yet, there is a glimmer of hope.
The school year has just begun. This morning, as I walked to work, I saw girls in pristine white shirts, tucked into perfectly pleated navy blue skirts. Their new backpacks were filled with clean notepaper and sharpened pencils, their faces bright with smiles, and their braids adorned with vibrant bows.
New possibilities, a fresh start—my heart was filled with hope.
It’s Rosh Chodesh Elul, the beginning of a new month. One month until Rosh Hashanah, the start of a new year. "Tichleh Shana v’Kil-loteha, Tachel Shana u’Virchoteha." May the year and its curses end, and may the new year and its blessings begin.
The promise of new beginnings, new potential, new possibilities, and new opportunities.
I don’t want to minimize our challenges—they are significant. But our belief in the power of new beginnings is strong. The past does not have to define our future. We can make new choices.
May Hashem help us.