When one reflects back on this past year, 5781, and realizes that all of that which happened in the world was determined on Rosh Hashana last year, makes one stop and digest the magnitude of the day.
As our sages have taught us and like we say in the prayers of Nesana Tokef, on Rosh Hashana is when Hashem determines the fate of nations, peoples, countries and individuals. 'Who will live and who will die... Who by water and who by fire... Who by choking and who by stoning... Who by storm and who by plague.' This prayer has particular resonance and meaning this year.
Rosh Hashana is a day that, as our sages teach us, is not only when Hashem will judge and determine what our fate will be, but also a day that has tremendous potential for growth. On Rosh Hashana a person can grow more in spirituality and come closer to Hashem than at other times. By davening with focus, concentration, meaning and feeling; by saying tehillim, by learning; a person can not only grow but also merit a judgement of a year of spiritual growth.
To be spiritually alive! To feel charged with a sense of mission and purpose. To have optimism and determination when facing the various trials and tribulations that are the course of man's journey in this world. This is all set in place on Rosh Hashana.
Wishing you a year of peace, health, happiness, success and, most importantly, a year where spiritual achievements and success are your lot. A year where Hashem should guide you on the path to success as a Torah Jew. 5782 should be the year that we, as a nation, merit the coming of Moshiach.
כתיבה וחתימה טובה
א גוט געבענטשט יאר
Rabbi Eli Meir Kramer
Rabbi Pinchos Scharf
