It’s likely we humans can agree that this year’s unforeseen events have been a jolt, and for Jews and many others, since October 7, the shock waves continue to ripple. It’s as if the world as we knew it went out the window. Again. Which made me think about Elul, and the worthy practice of Teshuva. We look back to repeal the clutch of the past on our hearts and minds, and then slowly turn in a positive direction forward.
But this traumatic year, how do we grab the between time of Elul to the New Year 5785 and make it count? There is a way, for each of us. In Elul, crafting a day with just a bit more intention and contemplation, can force hard questions and elusive answers to the surface. It can also soften a could-a, should-a regret mentality that so often keeps us stuck.
For me, thinking about a problem doesn’t always work as well as not thinking about it, like when I’m walking, working, reading, writing, or hanging out with loved ones. Prayer and meditation are Teshuva boons too, offering spiritual replenishment, the comfort of words and respite of silence.
Reflect on the meditative poem below. May it inspire you to write your own poem or response. Use a prompt below or write freely. Take a few deep breaths and dive in!
Prompt 1: from Sorrow to Tomorrow.
What is one sorrow or regret that feels hard to release?
What is a challenge or regret you dealt with well?
How can you hold them both?
Start: “I just can’t get over…” “I’m grateful…” or your own.
Prompt 2: Back to the Future.
Remember the good old days? Write about a memorable Elul or Rosh Hashanah.
Flash forward. Create a new story for 5785. Borrow from the past.
Start: “I remember when…” or your own.
Prompt 3: Prayers and Blessings.
What do you pray for? Write a blessing, personal or communal prayer. Draw from deep, hidden parts of yourself.
Start: “Here I am…” or your own phrase.
BETWEEN TIMES in the Space of Elul
- Lev Shalem – The Whole Heart
I don’t know what to do, where to start
when looking back brings pain and fear
to the one place that can hold all –
the heart.
If the tree holds the heart of the world
in its hands, so can I.
There’s healing space in the heart
even when it’s shattered.
Breathe in, it hums the whole universe.
Breathe out, let go of one petty thing and
make space for something better.
Peace. Joy. Beauty. Choose well and an enemy will flee.
- Teshuva – Return Again to the Light
There is always light at the end of a tunnel.
In dark times, find a glimmer, a glow.
It takes effort not to get stuck,
to reach past tunnel vision.
Go beyond revision of past mistakes to renewal.
May our hearts hum with hope on this Elul journey and our prayers give us strength for the New Year.
