September 11 felt different from other Fridays, as we recalled that September day 25 years ago when the world changed forever and, at the same time, celebrated the new year with the arrival of the Jewish New Year.
Rosh Hashanah marks the beginning of the 10 Days of Awe, a time of introspection, repentance and renewal. As the holidays began, I was thinking about a perpetual task for Jews suggested by noted British Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks (z’l): “We look back and ask, ‘What did we do with God’s most precious gift, the gift of time?’ We do this personally as individuals, but we also do it collectively as a community. We ask God to remember the good, forgive the bad and give us the inner strength to do better in the future. Where have we been as a community?”
I can say with confidence that Tovah used its time recently to amazing effect. Just over a year ago, we moved to our current location, which we knew from the start would become more than just an office. It quickly became a place to gather and where big decisions are made.
No decision was bigger than our choice to change our name to Tovah and become independent. Change is never simple and comes with surprises, both happy and challenging. The start of something creates positive momentum and energy – as seen in the range of Tovah’s upcoming programs and events. I sense a renewed commitment to our mission, to our values and to what Tovah brings to each of our lives.
I am so proud of where we are now and cannot wait to build an amazing future together.
And as this new year begins, the passage of time comes into focus.
My hopes and dreams for Tovah this year are simple: we will use our time wisely, in the pursuit of good. We will take the time to be generous, to be purposeful and we will work to bring even more value to our communities – the Jewish community of which we are so proud to be a part and the broader community where we know we do good together.
Wishing everyone Shana Tovah.
Lauren Tabak Fass