During this month, the Hebrew month of Cheshvan, we transition from the holiday-filled month of Tishrei back to our regular daily routines. Though the month of Cheshvan has no specific Holiday to revere, we have the opportunity to carry over the inspiration and meaning we gained during Tishrei—both spiritually and in ways that tangibly connect to our everyday lives. So what message do we take with us throughout this month?
Cheshvan is not just a time to recall the inspiration and messages of the previous month, but also offers a unique opportunity to implement of all the good we learned and experienced during the Holidays. In a certain sense, this month allows us to practically implement the “fruits” of our prayers and experiences from the Holidays. Cheshvan is the actualization of all good things from the previous month of awe, inspiration, and joy. As we continue our journey through 5785, we have the chance to integrate all the good things that we learned and experienced last month into our daily lives.
At the JAA, we look for opportunities to be inspired not only during the Holidays, but also throughout the entire year. We look for the opportunity to implement this good to help others and make their day. We take our inspiration and turn it into care, compassion, and blessing for all the residents and people we serve.
May we have the opportunity to be inspired, and to take that inspiration and bring about goodness and blessing for ourselves, our families, our community, and for the world around us.
-Rabbi Dovid Small