The Adams Street Shul

A man was driving on a lonely road when he realized that he was hopelessly lost. There were no pedestrians or gas stations, and he began to have serious concerns that he would never reach his destination.

Then a thought struck him: he had a cell phone. He would call the person who had invited him and was waiting for him. Surely, his friend would know the way.

“Where are you?” his friend asked him.

“What does that matter? I need to know where I am going.”

His friend chuckled. “You were never too bright. If I am going to tell you how to move ahead, you will first have to tell me exactly where you are.”

Although it might seem a bit simplified, we are now at a spiritual crossroad in the same situation in which our lost friend found himself.  Before we can move ahead, we must make as honest an assessment as possible as to where we are right now.  According to our tradition, that is the first step of Teshuvah, of repentance.  It is also the most difficult step.  No one wants to admit wrong doing or guilt.  Yet without this recognition, there can be no improvement.

Let us always remember that our confession is to our Father in heaven, who is lovingly waiting for us to ever grow spiritually.  Let us consider our relationship with our family, our friends, our synagogue and – above all – with ourselves. 

We are all starting to climb the mountain of G-d.  Each stage of this holy season will carry us to a higher rung.  It is my hope and prayer that when, at the end of Yom Kippur, we will have reached the top of the mountain, that we will all be at peace with Hashem, ourselves and each other.  May we see peace and fulfillment in Israel, in the world, in our community and family – and in ourselves.

A happy and healthy Shana Tova to all our congregants and friends!

--- Rabbi Norbert Weinberg