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Rosh Hashanah begins at sundown on Monday, September 22
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Mitzvah of the Week

Last week we were reminded of the importance of studying together during the month of Elul. This week, we will have a number of opportunities to do just that, as we come together this Shabbat and beyond. Our sages taught that study leads to actions of chesed, lovingkindness, as we reminded in this week’s Torah portion. We recall our history, and are reminded that we stand upon the shoulders of others who came before and that they were in a relationship with the Divine. We are told that not only should food be given to the Levite, who has no land, but also to the stranger, the orphan, and the widow.

This is a solid reminder, that even if I and my family are alright, there are others who are not. Rabbi Shai Held writes about counteracting a sense of entitlement, a sense that if I am managing, everyone else must be as well. Our job is to remember the journey, not only our journey but that of our families and when we do, our desire and ability to take care of those around us is amplified.

This week, choose a way in which you can be in support of others, whether it be through food for those who do not have enough to eat, comfort for those in mourning, support for those combatting illness, and support for those who simply need to know that others care about them as they navigate difficult times. It is easiest to begin with those we know, and it is important to stretch beyond the known to those who at this moment are strangers.

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