BY ASHER J. MATAHIAS
As we exchange traditional greetings for a healthy, and sweet New Year, we are mindful that all is not well with the world.
With the advent of Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, offerings are given to the Almighty in the form of poetic entreaties asking for mercy in His judgment, to exercise compassion and generosity with us, even if we are found wanting and not deserving.
However, more than our relationship with the Master of the Universe, is the quality of the associations we maintain with our fellows on this earth; thus, we are implored to reach out to those we intentionally, or, more commonly, without forethought, have wronged, or otherwise have compromised their dignity and respect that is our due for the beauty of living to be realized.
In this fashion, let me the first to ask forgiveness for inadvertent transgressions of arrogance, harshness of speech, scoffing; turning aside from our faith’s loving commandments and teachings, profiting me naught. Typically, importantly, convincingly, such expressions of contrition are not made in private; but as a public confession, in order to encourage admission and submission — resolving to start anew, just as we are released from all previous vows to G-d.
May the New Year 5776 be a harbinger for good tidings to us all, in America, Israel, and the world entire; and may we be blessed with health, enhanced prosperity, and shalom, ever-grateful for the opportunities to be cheerful and optimistic.
Asher J. Matahias is president of B’Nai B’rith International.
