Tonight I join my fellow Jews in Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement.  This is traditionally the most solemn day of the year for observant Jews.   It follows the 10 days of awe starting with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish new year.   It is a day of reflection and commitment.  A time to seek forgiveness for those that I have either intentionally or inadvertently offended.

Tonight we will attend services at our Synagogue.  The services includes the chanting of Kol Nidre.  This prayer has been chanted at this time for hundreds of years and generations of Jews.  The tone and meaning reflects the seriousness of our commitment and the behavior to our family, neighbors, community and nation.

I try to live a good life, a life where I can provide value to others in a positive way.   But, I recognize that it isn’t always received as I intended or perhaps my communications or acts created perceptions that I would not appreciate.   For all these acts, I truly I am sorry.   For those impacted, my hope that I will learn and grow.   For my hope is that next year, I hope to be better than the previous.   To serve those in need and pursue the Jewish precepts, Tikkun Olam,   making the world a better place.

Tomorrow, on this most solemn of days, is also the anniversary of the loss of my son, Ross.   I have written about Ross and how he brought joy to most everyone he encountered.   We will spend time tomorrow at his final resting place and I will reflect on him,  our lives, but, also on Yom Kippur.  The meaning and the humility that I should maintain.   That there is meaning beyond day to day activities and events.   That relationships are for today and tomorrow and  Gemilut Chasadim, Acts of Loving Kindness, is how we should act as Jews.

For several weeks, I have not been looking forward to this day and tomorrow.   It brings great stress.   But, as the time is now here, I am relaxed and comforted.   I have been blessed with so many wonderful friends, family, and business associates.  The years with Ross bring wonderful memories and always make me smile.

While I listen to the haunting melody of Kol Nidre and when I spend the day tomorrow for Yom Kippur,  I will seek forgiveness, but, I will also fill my mind and soul with the wonderful joyous experiences in which I have been blessed.