This month, we observe and celebrate the Holidays of Tishrei, which conclude with Sukkos and Simchas Torah. Sukkos reminds us of the Clouds of Glory from G-d that protected the Jewish people as they traveled through the desert. This special and profound message teaches us that just as our ancestors were cared for, we too are looked after and protected from above as we journey and travel through life. Everything that happens to us is a message that our steps are guided.
The Holiday of Sukkos and all the Holidays from the month of Tishrei conclude with Simchas Torah. While there is typically a very special place to learn and study Torah, on the Holiday of Simchas Torah we dance with the Torah. When we dance, our entire self is involved, reminding us that when we move throughout the year, we should let our entire sense of self be true, real, and incorporated with the life of Torah.
From Sukkos and Simchas Torah, we learn that we are always guided and looked after and that G-d is with us every step of the way. We have the opportunity to live with the inspiration and goodness from Torah in our everyday life, fully and authentically.
At the JAA, we have had special opportunities to experience the Holidays together and bring blessing into the year. May we have the opportunity to bring blessings and be guided as we bring the inspiration of Holidays into the rest of the year, and experience these blessings fully in a true wholesome way with ourselves, our families, and community together.
– Rabbi Dovid Small