Building Bridges

The day of infinite possibilities

Roberta Medina, Comity Group

Our article this month will look to the Jewish religion. On September 29, the Holy day of Rosh Hashanah will be celebrated by Jewish people the world over. For many of us, this is a date on the calendar that we know little about.

The words Rosh Hashanah is literally translated as the Head of the Year, the day of the world’s conception.

The month prior to Rosh Hashanah is a preparation for this joyous time of the year; as stated so beautifully by author Aida Allen, “these days of turning and returning, all of life lies before us, sharing in joy and sorrow, in seeking and striving, what will be the start of another year. As the many in our country and the world began the New Year filled with hope for a better LIFE and it’s meaning for our families, our country, and our world. On this holiday we are invited to open ourselves to that tender and vulnerable place from which our deepest desires arise. We challenge ourselves to give over to God and trust in the co-creative partnership that is our faith, without knowing what the outcome will be. We cannot just resolve to make something happen when in fact what is required of us is to relax into the vulnerability, and to learn to discern the signs and cues that arise to guide us on our life’s path”.

The Jewish holy book reminds people to lovingly return to God, the eternal mother who is always ready to help as we enter the world through determination and planning, mixed with an utter lack of control and abundant mystery that will lead us through another year.

I hope this short look into an important Jewish holiday will give all that read it an insight into a faith that is celebrated and worshiped by millions of people worldwide, and is a part of the celebration that ALL humans have. Aida Allen, in her writing, likened this beautiful annual celebration to pregnancy and birth. Just as the cycle of each year makes its way through the calendar.

If you would like to celebrate diversity, you are invited to submit additional articles to Comity. Please contact Roberta Medina at [email protected]. Our community is growing and renewing its spirit of the celebration of diversity each year.