Heading Into a New Year with Gratitude and Light

This past year has been one of the most challenging seasons of my life. It was filled with ups and downs, moments of doubt, and lessons that forced me to pause and reevaluate what I truly value.

At the beginning of the Jewish New Year last year, I was exhausted, emotionally and physically drained. I felt pressure to make decisions that may have looked good on paper but did not align with what I knew deep down was right for me. Personally and professionally, I wrestled with struggle, peace, and self-worth.

Those challenges stretched me in ways I did not expect. I learned a lot about people, about community, and about myself. Most importantly, I learned how to hold onto my self-worth and set boundaries when others tried to push past them.

Over the past few months, things have shifted. I find myself in a new place, grateful, supported, and deeply hopeful. I am doing work that brings me joy. I feel valued in the relationships and community around me. I am grounded in love.

As we enter this New Year, my family and I are charting our own path. We are not currently part of a synagogue, but we are choosing to create a sense of tradition within our home. Through family time, volunteering, and a commitment to making our house and community places of learning, growth, and connection, we are shaping what this year will look like.

The world often feels heavy, but one of the greatest lessons I have learned this year is that when we share light with others, it returns to us tenfold.

So I head into this New Year with an open heart, ready for growth, connection, and joy.

Wishing you a year filled with health, love, sweetness, and light. May it be a year where we each find new ways to thrive and bring light to others.

Shanah Tovah ❤️