December, 2010

In Judaism we celebrate 4 new years. There is the new year with which most of us are familiar, Rosh Hashana. We also celebrate the new year of the trees, the new year of kings, and the new year of tithing.

I also like to think of birthdays as beginning a new year for each of us. Each new year offers an opportunity to pause and to reflect on the year that has just passed. To celebrate successes and accomplishments of that year. And, for me, to consider what I might wish to accomplish as well as how I might hope to grow in the coming year.

Now, at the turning of the secular year, I wish you compassion with yourself as you take stock of the year that is ending, and freedom to allow yourself to dream about what you wish for yourself, for your loved ones, and for the world in the coming year.

I’d like to share with you the following quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson that inspires me and reminds me of what is important in life:

To laugh often and much; To win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children.To earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; To appreciate beauty, to find the best in others; To leave the world a bit better whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a redeemed social condition; To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded.

With blessings and wishes for all the best in 2011