Renewal, Reflection, and Connection: Stepping into October Together
As we move into October, we carry with us the spiritual energy of the High Holy Days. Rosh Hashanah invited us to reflect on the past year and envision who we want to be in the year ahead. Yom Kippur reminds us of the power of forgiveness and the importance of repairing relationships, with ourselves, with others, and with G-d. And as we cast our sins into the water at Tashlich, we symbolically let go of the burdens we’ve carried, making space for growth, renewal, and joy.
October also ushers in Sukkot, the festival of joy and gratitude. In the sukkah, we are reminded that security is fleeting and that life’s richness comes from community, hospitality, and connection. As we shake the lulav and etrog, we celebrate the beauty of the natural world and the blessings that surround us every day. Simchat Torah, which concludes this season, brings exuberant dancing with the Torah scrolls, emphasizing that joy and celebration are essential to our spiritual lives.
These holidays teach us something profound: Judaism is a balance of reflection and action, of contemplation and celebration. It is not enough to feel; we are called to act. Our traditions encourage us to turn inward and grow spiritually, but also to reach outward, to care for our neighbors, to build community, and to share our gifts.
At TBT, that balance comes alive every day. Our Chesed Committee connects members who can lend a hand with those who could use support. Our Social Justice initiatives, like the High Holiday Food Drive, remind us that helping others is central to our faith. And our Kesher Groups, Israel Committee, and learning programs, like Scholar in Residence, offer spaces to connect, learn, and grow together. Every service, program, and volunteer opportunity is a chance to live the values of our tradition in tangible ways.
As we move through October, I invite you to step more fully into our community:
- Join a Kesher Group such as singing, cooking, hiking, or others. Or, start one around your passion. You can learn more HERE.
- Attend Sukkot and Simchat Torah celebrations, and bring a friend or family member to share in the joy.
- Volunteer with Chesed or participate in Social Justice initiatives to help neighbors in need.
- Learn with us, come to a Torah study, a lecture, or a Scholar-in-Residence event.
- Give to TBT, of your time and resources to help strengthen our Jewish community on the shoreline.
Every connection you make strengthens TBT, and every act of participation enriches your own spiritual life.
As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, may this season of reflection, celebration, and renewal inspire you to reach inward and outward, embracing both growth and joy.
Shanah Tovah u’Metukah, and Chag Sameach!
Josh Broder, TBT President