Choosing Resilience for the Year Ahead

As I sit here during the ten days between Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur, I reflect on the state of our world. These days are meant for deep introspection and cleansing, setting the stage for bettering our lives in the coming year.
This past year has been brutal for humanity, especially with the horrific events of October 7. I was present when the war began. My country, Israel, and my people endured unimaginable atrocities, and as the year progressed, the hardship only deepened. Many people faced personal tragedies and hardships. So how do we move forward from such a difficult past, leaving it behind and looking toward a brighter future?
Choosing not to dwell on the past is a conscious decision. It requires elevating our understanding to a new level of awareness—one where we refuse to live in fear, anger, sadness, or uncertainty. Instead, we resist our negative thoughts and shield ourselves from external negativity.
Of course, it’s easy to have faith when everything is going well. But to create meaningful change in our lives, we must take a leap of faith. As Marian Anderson said, “Prayer begins where human capacity ends.”
In moments of chaos and discord, I turn to prayer for healing and order. I let go and trust the process. To tap into my inner strength, I remind myself that I am part of a higher power, a source of light that connects us all. By strengthening ourselves, we positively influence others.
This year, I resolve to be resilient. True resilience and healing begin within each of us. With renewed faith, it’s impossible not to feel energized and ready for the adventures of the new year. A future full of hope and compassion awaits, but it requires each of us to do our part. May we all be sealed for a happy and blessed New Year!
Naomi Young is a teacher in Santa Clarita who brings over four decades of experience in Jewish studies and bar/ bat mitzvah training. She is a seasoned writer and multimedia artist. Connect with her via email at naomiyoung7@yahoo.com or explore her creative endeavors on her website www.naomiyoung.com