Forgiveness

 

Dear JCCP/CBT Family,

The days between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are a time for asking for and giving forgiveness. So, at this sacred time in the Jewish calendar, let me ask for yours, and let me give you mine.

If there is anyone reading these words whom I have hurt consciously or unconsciously, if there is anyone whose pain I did not notice, or whose sorrow I did not respond to, or whose quest I did not share, or whose need I was unaware of, will you please forgive me?

If in return, if there is anyone reading these words who has judged me casually or carelessly or wrongly, if there is anyone who did not share my dreams or respond to my calls for help in reaching the goals I cherish, I hereby forgive you with a whole heart.

Now is the time when we must put aside all of our hurts, all of our resentments, and extend and receive forgiveness. Let’s join hands and hearts together in the new year that has begun.  May we love each other more and put each other down less in the new year. May we forgive and may we forget the hurts and slights that we have received from each other and may we be grateful for the good we have received from each other. Let’s make up and live together in peace.

Happy new year. May we all be inscribed in the book of life, health, and hope. 

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Arthur D. Weiner

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