It is the season for change. As I was thinking about growth and improvement, I realized something shouldn’t diminish in the process: sense of self. Of all facets of life, being true to my values and morals and honest with who I am…that I want to stay exactly the same. Change allows life to continue, a forward movement. But if we lose ourselves in the process, the tikkun (repair) is for naught.
Eleanor Roosevelt said, “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.” We all wish it was that easy. To not allow someone else to chip away from one’s confidence and self-assurance is a life-long struggle. And yet, to maintain poise and strength through this unpredictable journey is the uphill battle worth fighting. Our dignity is the anchor that will allow us to save others from drowning and bring reparation where it is desperately needed.
According to Maimonides, the truly penitent face a sin they have committed in the past, and do not repeat it again. What a year it would be if we could all look in the mirror and never again, doubt our self-worth or question our sense of self.
We should look to change in order to grow. And we should be proud and confident in the soul that wishes to change.
Shabbat Shalom
