Teachings: Yom kippur

This page was created after receiving letters from a) a woman in rural Romania, b) a homebound man and his wife, c) friends who felt very uncomfortable in the local synagogue, and d) friends whose children were unwilling to go back to synagogue due to boredom.

We begin with a short mitzvah story about yizkor and yarzeit, the Jewish memorial spiritual practices for a loved one that take place annually on the anniversary of the person's death, as well as on specific holidays. This article will then continue with how to enter into yartzeit and yizkor as spiritual practices for both home and synagogue.

The First Steps in Teshuva: A Process of Deep Return/Rebalancing/Centering

Rabbi Mendel of Satanov, Menachem Mendel Lefin (1749–1826), created a a new approach to the practice called Cheshbon HaNefesh, “Accounting of the Soul.” He also wrote a book by the same name. His approach was to encourage keeping a journal on how you are doing in cultivating the following 18 attributes within yourself, and I would add, your students, children and grandchildren. After the list, are several ways to work with these concepts in your life. These are the core concepts of Mussar, one of many inspiring approaches to Jewish living.

1. Equanimity - מְנוּחַת הַנֶפֶשׁ.  Attaining skillful ability to live in balance.

2. Tolerance - סַבְלָנוּת. Growing pains lead to knowing gains, listen with an open mind.

3. Orderliness - סֵדֶר. Allocating time for living fully with integrity, including showing up on time.

4. Decisiveness - חָרִיצוּת. Acting promptly when your reasoning is sure and kindness is intelligently incorporated in necessary action.