The Charlotte Jewish News- September 2025- Page 18
ESSENCE OF THE HIGH HOLY DAYS, IN RHYME
By Cantor Elias Roochvarg,
Cantor Emeritus of Temple Israel
The mood pervading each Shabbat of G-d’ s accessibility, Is replaced on the Days of Awe by thoughts of life’ s fragility. Shabbat is warm and friendly, with singing comfy cozy. The mood on the High Holy Days is quite a bit less rosy. Its melodies reflect the theme of G-d’ s great majesty, Reminders of our shortcomings pervade the liturgy. We’ re called upon to search our souls as we begin the year, Reminded that, come next Elul, some of us won’ t be here.
On Rosh HaShanah, our fate is writ, and on Yom Kippur, sealed: Who shall live and who shall die. Who be afflicted, and who healed. We’ re told that there is just one way to“ avert the severe decree.” Repentance, heartfelt prayer, and deeds of charity. We’ re reassured that G-d does not give weight to sins alone, But also reckons any sincere efforts to atone. And what’ s more, G-d is patient, wanting each sinner to LIVE. Whenever he repents, G-d will right away forgive.
So when you come to temple this year, on these High Holy Days, Be mindful of just where it might be wise to mend your ways. Resolve to be a better YOU to family and friends. Apologize to those you’ ve wronged, and vow to make amends.
Shanah Tovah to all of you from the Roochvarg family, And to any of you I have wronged, I hope you’ ll forgive ME!
Daniel A. Lewis Family Law Attorney DRC- Certified Family Financial Mediator Collaborative Divorce Professional
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Tin Fulton Walker & Owen, PLLC Tel( 704) 338-1220 | dlewis @ tinfulton. com | www. tinfulton. com
WE REMEMBER
OCTOBER 7 COMMUNITY COMMEMORATION
Oct 16 at 7PM
Sam Lerner Center for Cultural Arts
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