We know 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 scale 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 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.
Some suggestions are to:
- Give more charity
- Have more Kavanah in your Tefillah
- Be stringent in laws such as:
- Kashrut
- Tzniut, more than you regularly would
- Control your anger
- Judge favorably
Rav Fanger, who was moved to hear that we have hundreds of women 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 retells a story that happened during the Six-Day War:
The Mir Yeshiva was hiding in bunkers. All around them, ammunition and live explosives fell on the roof, yet not one exploded. When they exited, the Rosh Yeshiva, Rav Chaim Shmulevitz, was asked what special Zechut they had to be worthy of this divine protection. He related a story that happened in the bunker. The Rosh Yeshiva overheard a woman talking to God:
"For years, I have been an Agunah, a chained woman, 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, you will protect us."
The Rosh Yeshiva proclaimed that she not only saved herself, but the entire Yeshiva was also under her protection. Rav Fanger stresses that forgiveness and letting go must be wholehearted, relieving any trace of anger, hurt, or grudge. Doing this will weigh heavily in your favor.
Drawing closer to Hashem, trusting and relying on Him is crucial for your personal development and a significant move toward your Teshuvah process. Believing in yourself and how proud H'shem is of you is the foundation for continuous growth and progress.
https://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/1620809/jewish/The-Ten-Days-of-Repentance-The-Aseret-Yemay-Teshuvah.htm
Comments
Post a Comment