Embracing The New Year- Learning To Become More Present

We find ourselves in the midst of the 10 Days of Repentance, a sacred time between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. This year, with the Hebrew letter pei representing expression, communication, and sharing, we are called to speak our truth, praise, sing, and express what's in our hearts. Today, even without much preparation, I want to do just that—open up and reflect on what's present in this moment.

The events of October 7th have left us with a storm of conflicting emotions. We feel sadness, disgust, and fear, while also experiencing moments of joy, gratitude for miracles, and hope. This year—5784—also marks the year of po, being present. It's a time to cultivate mindfulness and a heightened awareness of the present moment.

There’s so much in our hearts right now. What’s in your heart? I want to start by sharing a moment of presence that has kept me grounded during these challenging times.

From the outside, it can seem like life here is filled with unimaginable hardships. Over Rosh Hashanah, we had guests at our table, and for the first time, I truly understood the idea that we can be redeemed through kindness and mercy. At one point, while praying in shul, the sirens went off. Yet, in that moment, there was an unwavering silence. No panic. Later, we had beautiful meals, even while we briefly sought refuge in the bomb shelter. I felt the immense faith of the Jewish people, and I was filled with both awe and deep gratitude.

There’s a real fear of the unknown. Leaving my children alone in uncertain times brings this fear to the forefront. We’re constantly reminded of the fragility of life, and it’s terrifying. Yet, despite the darkness and confusion, we must hold on to gratitude.

As much as the world seems overrun by evil, there’s also a sense that this period of turmoil is purifying the world. With each battle we face, the world is becoming cleaner, lighter, and more aligned with a divine purpose.

In a recent class, we explored the importance of releasing old paradigms to make space for something new. This time of year, particularly during the Days of Awe, invites us to reconsider what teshuva truly means.

For too long, many have viewed God as a punitive, judgmental figure—a strict father who punishes disobedience. But what if we shift that perspective? What if we see God as a source of infinite love and compassion, present even in our deepest challenges?

The truth is that there’s nothing in this world independent of its Creator. Even darkness gets its life force from holiness. God isn’t contrasting good and evil to intimidate us into fear. Instead, God is One—Shema Yisrael. He is the source of all life, all love, all light, and even our challenges. God is right there with us, holding all our fears, feelings of inadequacy, and struggles.

Holding the tension of opposites—good and bad, joy and sadness, light and darkness—is challenging for the human mind. Our consciousness is programmed for duality. But the reality is far more complex. God is present in both the revealed moments of love and compassion, as well as in the darkest, most existential moments of despair.

Can we hold that paradox? Can we bring God into the grief, sadness, and confusion? Surrendering to that reality doesn’t mean falling into victimhood or numbness. True surrender is trusting that we are giving ourselves over to something far greater than ourselves.

True surrender means knowing there’s nowhere to go and nothing we need to do except be present with what is. Moment to moment, we have an opportunity to embrace that surrender and, through it, find joy and peace. Crowning God as King in this time of year means recognizing that He is the only power in the world. Surrendering to that power allows us to let go of control and embrace the flow of divine presence in our lives.

Of course, we can’t live in constant surrender—after all, we have both a Divine soul and an animal soul. But what if we allowed ourselves even just a moment each day to surrender?

Let’s set aside time for cheshbon hanefesh, a true accounting of our souls, when we are present and our minds are calm. This is the work we’re called to do in these days of repentance—honest reflection and openness to God’s presence.

Like King David, who God asked to judge himself, we are also given the opportunity to take stock and assess our actions. This is our moment to open our hearts and return to our essence, to the oneness that is God.

So, as we move through these days, let’s allow ourselves to hold the paradox, surrender to God’s infinite presence, and find peace in knowing that everything, even our challenges, is part of His divine plan.

From our weekly classes on the Live Kabbalah Community ❤️

https://www.livekabbalah.com

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