Rosh Hashana: Growing Into Our Best Selves

By Rabbi Shaya Hauptman

This past year has been full of change. For many of us at The Ark, it meant celebrating big milestones together and also being there for one another through loss and hard times. Our organization itself has gone through many changes, with new energy, ideas, and opportunities shaping our work together. And if we look at the world around us, the pace of change has been just as real. Some of it exciting, some of it frightening, and much of it impossible to imagine just a year ago.

That’s the power of the High Holy Days, beginning with Rosh Hashana and reaching their peak on Yom Kippur. These are the days when everything for the year ahead is set in motion. The Sifsei Chaim, a modern commentator, explains it in simple terms: G-d takes “inventory.” Just like in any well-run business, there’s a review. Were the resources given last year, such as our time, our talents, our opportunities, and our blessings, used well? If they were, they’re renewed, and sometimes even increased. If not, those resources may be given to someone else who can make better use of them. It isn’t personal. The purpose is to keep the world moving forward in the right direction. That’s why the day is called Rosh Hashana, the “head of the year.” Just as every fiscal year begins with a budget and a plan, so too the coming year is determined at its head, with all the allocations decided now and final approval given on Yom Kippur, when the books of life are sealed.

That can feel heavy, but it can also be uplifting. The Sfas Emes, a Chasidic master from the 19th century, taught that renewal during this period doesn’t come from trying to become someone we’re not. It comes from looking inward and noticing the greatness that’s already there. Every one of us has qualities that make us special, and we’re naturally drawn to them. For some, it’s the joy of saying hello and lifting someone’s spirits. For others, it’s curiosity and the desire to learn. Some find it in social connection, others in art, music, or creativity. It might be the satisfaction of building something with our hands or the pleasure of giving thoughtful gifts. These aren’t accidents. They’re reminders of what makes each of us exceptional, and they show us how uniquely qualified we are to change the world around us for the better. That’s what makes change so achievable. We already have the disposition, the ability, and even the desire. All that’s left is to nurture those qualities in small, sustainable ways. When we do, we put ourselves in the best position when G-d is “taking inventory,” showing that we’re ready to receive and ready to use what we’ve been gifted by life to keep growing and giving.

And in many ways, the work we do at The Ark already reflects that greatness. We’re blessed that our daily efforts to support people, lift others up, and build community are a real source of merit. Every act of kindness doesn’t just change lives in the moment, it also strengthens our place in the year ahead. We all hope that this period of Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur ushers in a time of health, blessings, and opportunity. May we find the strength to continue becoming the best versions of ourselves, and may G-d’s love pour down on us in ways we’re ready to receive, with open hands and open hearts. 

May we all merit the sweetness and joy of a true G'mar Tov!