The First Step

 Shabbat Shalom from Rabbi Eitan Weiner-Kaplow

 

September 3-4, 2021 / 27 Elul 5781

Shabbat Nitzaveem

Torah: Deuteronomy 29:9-30:20     Haftarah: Isaiah 61:10 - 63:9

 

“The First Step”

 

Dear Friends,

 

As the High Holidays approach, the daunting task of improving ourselves looms large. This week’s Torah portion serves as an encouragement to us. Deuteronomy 30:11 says, “Surely this direction, which I command you this day is not too difficult for you, nor beyond your ability.”

 

A story is told of a foolish man who wants to learn the whole Torah.  When he is given a complete and lengthy plan of study, he quickly grows frustrated and walks away.  A wise man then comes seeking the same goal.  Yet, upon receiving the syllabus, he graciously begins his studies, learning one chapter each day as his knowledge grows.

 

The hardest part of a journey is taking the first step.  On Rosh Hashana eve, we will take the first step together and begin our annual process of becoming our best selves.

 

Zay a mentsch – Be a Good Person.

 

Shabbat Shalom,

 

Rabbi Eitan Weiner-Kaplow