“This is the day that the Lord has made. Let us be glad and rejoice in it.” (Psalm 118:24)

Today is the birthday of the world, created again anew. Today we experience the gift of the God’s majesty. We see this reflected in our liturgy, in Avinu Malkenu, literally translated as “Our Father, our King.” What does it mean that God is our Ruler? What does it mean that we call God our loving Parent? Does this differ from the 13 Attributes we have been studying? How do we relate to such a God? With fear and trepidation? With longing? Are we seeking God’s approval? How do we make this relationship right?

Today is Rosh Hashanah, the new year, the birthday of the world. You have been working very hard. Spend some time today thinking about your journey. Remember that you are a beloved child of the Divine and that your efforts in preparation are loved by God. You are loved by God. Write a letter to yourself to open at Chanukah with your goals for the coming year. While, similar to American New Year’s resolutions that seem to never be kept, this is more of a covenant between you, yourself and God. Where do you want to be? Perhaps you could include some promises in the spiritual, physical and emotional realms, giving you some balance.

The shofar sounds call to us, awakening us from our slumber, calling us to remember creation and God’s sovereignty.