Our destiny was determined on Rosh Hashanah; however, it is not final until Yom Kippur. During these ten days, we must do everything we can to tip the scales of judgment in our favor. H"shem is closer to us now than any other time of the year, and we must cry out to Him through Tefillah (prayer) and action. Although some may say "acting" better during these days does not fool H’shem, the sages tell us that the act itself of wanting to be better and being more careful during this time, even if only for these days, is enough to improve our fate.
Practical Suggestions for the Ten Days of Repentance:
Give more charity (Tzedakah)
Have more Kavanah (intention) in your Tefillah
Be more stringent in observing laws such as:
Kashrut (dietary laws)
Tzniut (modesty), more than you regularly would
Control your anger
Judge others favorably
The Power of Forgiveness
Rav Fanger, who was moved to hear that hundreds of women are dedicated to this workshop, quotes Rashi, who says anyone who works on their character, such as to "forgive and forget," can wipe away a harsh judgment, protecting you, your family, and potentially saving the entire community.
He shared a powerful story from the Six-Day War:
The Mir Yeshiva was hiding in bunkers as ammunition and live explosives fell on the roof, yet miraculously, not one exploded. When they finally emerged, the Rosh Yeshiva, Rav Chaim Shmulevitz, was asked what special merit (Zechut) had protected them.
The Rosh Yeshiva revealed that while in the bunker, he had overheard a woman praying:
"For years, I have been an Agunah, my husband refusing to give me a divorce. I have every right to be angry and hold a grudge; however, I am willing to completely forgive him in my heart and mind. In turn, H'shem, please protect us."
The Rosh Yeshiva proclaimed that she had not only saved herself but that the entire Yeshiva was under her protection through this act of forgiveness.
Rav Fanger emphasizes that forgiveness and letting go must be wholehearted, relieving any trace of anger, hurt, or grudge. Doing this will weigh heavily in your favor during these Days of Awe.
Drawing closer to H'shem, trusting and relying on Him is crucial for your personal development and a significant step toward your Teshuvah (repentance) process. Believing in yourself and recognizing how proud H'shem is of you forms the foundation for continuous growth and spiritual progress.
Comments
Post a Comment