fbpx
[additional-authors]
September 12, 2014

By Rabbi Mark Borovtiz

Sitting here this morning, I see that in 12 days we will begin the High Holiday Season. I have not written a word of a sermon nor have I completed my Chesbon HaNefesh. I am in trembling fear and awe of these next 12-22 days!

I am guilty, as our liturgy says. I am guilty along with my fellow Jews and fellow humans. I see guilt as a motivator and a destroyer. In doing my Soul Accounting, I ask myself: How have I missed the mark through excessive guilt and worthlessness? In asking this question I have to see how I use guilt to avoid really taking responsibility. I use it to “beat” myself up and then gain the sympathy or pity of another. I use it to stay stuck in being unable to change my ways because I am not worthy.

While psychologically this is a true state of being for me, I KNOW deep in my being that this is a lie I perpetuate. I am never so guilty that I can’t change. I am created in the Image of God, so I can’t be worthless. Yet, I and you and society buy and resell this type of lie to each other every day.

Here is this week’s work for me:
1) See the good I have done
2) Don’t wallow in my errors
3) Stop being shame-based as we are worth an entire world
4) Embrace my purpose in my corner of the world
5) Live with more passion in the life I have
6) No longer compare or compete with anyone else
7) Do at least one T’Shuvah this week
8) Hold my head up and face the world with a smile and grit
9) Help another person at least once a day
10)  Recognize and respect the dignity of myself and others each day.

 

These are acts of Redemption that we can all take part in. Join me in being so Addicted to Redemption that we change the world, one person at a time.

Did you enjoy this article?
You'll love our roundtable.

Editor's Picks

Latest Articles

Difficult Choices

Jews have always believed in the importance of higher education. Today, with the rise in antisemitism across many college campuses, Jewish high school seniors are facing difficult choices.

All Aboard the Lifeboat

These are excruciating times for Israel, and for the Jewish people.  It is so tempting to succumb to despair. That is why we must keep our eyes open and revel in any blessing we can find.  

More news and opinions than at a
Shabbat dinner, right in your inbox.

More news and opinions than at a Shabbat dinner, right in your inbox.

More news and opinions than at a Shabbat dinner, right in your inbox.