Rosh Hashanah - the birthday of the world, which also marks the beginning of Teshuvah, which culminates on Yom Kippur, takes place this year on October 3rd. Many levels of meaning permeate this great festival and over the years and centuries as well as in different places around the world, we can use this birthday and its perpetual reappearance in many ways to remind ourselves of time and its power. Constant change and eternal return are woven into a web that Rosh Hashanah can show us.
How wonderful it would be if we honored, celebrated, cared for and valued the birthday child - the world and everything in it - not only on October 3rd and every year on Tishri 1st, and constantly reminded ourselves of our respect for creation. We have often shown throughout history that we lose sight of the value of creation and each and every one of us knows from our own experience that it is sometimes difficult to keep an eye on the environment.
It is said that we have been appointed by the Eternal as representatives of the world to protect and preserve it. Although I occasionally doubt whether this is not just a human fantasy of grandeur, the attitude that can result from it is one that does Rosh Hashanah proud. We humans should do our utmost to not only thrive and multiply, but also to care for and preserve the world as creation. Since there are now so many of us, in many cases this means making sure that not everyone does the same thing. Because whenever thousands and millions of people decide on the same paths, methods or products, sooner or later we burden our environment, the climate, other people, other species and creation as a whole. If we make an effort to treat the world with care and ensure that diversity in our actions is maintained, we will give creation the best birthday party possible.
And after Rosh Hashanah, preparations for the next festival begin. Let us therefore also make sure in our community that we treat people, animals, plants and the inanimate environment with respect and mindfulness - on Rosh Hashanah and throughout the year. From avoiding and separating waste to sustainability in our construction to observing netiquette and treating each other with love, there are countless things that each and every one of us can do together. Let us support and remind each other, without making accusations, and enjoy the environment that is emerging together. We celebrate all of this and more on Rosh Hashanah and are cordially invited to remember it throughout the year as well. The Cultural Commission wishes us all a sweet new year with health, prosperity and effectiveness.
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