Yes, it’s almost Yom Kippur (really!). Beginning on Sept. 29, this is also known as the Day of Atonement, a time when Jews traditionally fast, repent, clean their slates and start anew. During the period between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, the month of Elul, we try to amend our behavior and seek forgiveness from God. It’s time to take stock, reflect on what went awry and begin afresh. It’s a time to reframe our sense of being and purpose in this world.
In that spirit, we want to help. In biblical times, Israelites atoned with sacrifices. In a more modern twist, we’re inviting you to unburden yourself using the handy form below. We’ll collect anonymous submissions for the next two weeks and post them before Rosh Hashanah.
While no confession is too small or trivial, we hope you’ll take time to think about some bigger-picture ideas, too. How can you be more present, live more fully or enjoy yourself better? Is there something you’d like to repent for, or someone you wish you could make amends to? This is a safe place to do it.
And I’ll start: I need to volunteer more. I keep meaning to start an elderly visitor program with a bunch of kids in my neighborhood, and I’ve even gotten buy-in from a local nursing home and other local parents. However, I’ve been too busy to arrange it. I’m too busy thinking about my work, family logistics, why I can’t find my brand-new Athleta sweatshirt, what have you. So I keep putting it off and haven’t made any meaningful headway. What good are altruistic impulses if you don’t follow through? It’s easy to tap out my Bank of America card number on a GoFundMe page, and that kind of stuff is helpful, too. But I haven’t made any sustained, deliberate effort to help another person in too long. This year, I want to change that.
OK, now your turn. Share with us! It’s our secret.
Our confession box is now closed. Thanks for your interest!