The Hardest Word

Did you know tomorrow night marks the start of the holiest day in the Jewish year? This Shiksa is still trying to learn what it takes to be a good mommy and wife to my Jewish family which means a lot of Google-ing, asking Kyle and, lately, reading Cooper's lesson plans from school. Of course, being married to Kyle, I've known about Yom Kippur as he casually observes it but it is a new world seeing it through my two year old's eyes. Maybe you've read about our wacky Christmukkah celebrations but Yom Kippur is a lot more than pretty lights and presents.

Here is the Cliff's Notes version...as I understand it! I'm sure Cooper can and will correct me if I'm wrong.

High Holy Days start with Rosh Hashanah, or the beginning of the new year, and end ten days later with Yom Kippur. During these ten days, God opens the book of life passes his judgement. Basically, you have this time to get yourself together and atone for your sins. Kind of like Santa's naughty and nice list, but way more intense! You know, the book of life versus the book of death kind of stuff.

Here's the catch, you can only ask God for forgiveness for your sins against God. For your sins against your fellow man? You're on your own, pal. Oh yeah, and you've got ten days to make amends. 

I love everything about this lesson. I love that my two year old's classroom is learning to say sorry and take responsibility for actions this week. I love the ritual that is put into reflecting on these things by all of those who observe this holiday.  And, I REALLY love that this is a time to seek forgiveness from family and friends and that you are the only one responsible for making that happen. What a way to start the new year with a clean slate, right?! I can definitely get on board.

This week, Cooper's class is reading about Jonah and the Whale and learning how to say the "hardest word" which is SORRY! I wonder if Cooper will tell Carrington sorry for saying things like "Dad, get her out of my room!" and "I don't wike her!" Mommy can dream. I did snap one instant of brotherly love this week. (Don't worry grandparents, the car was parked in a parking lot for this pic!)