Tomorrow night we will be entering the Holiest day of the year “Yom Kippur.” For almost 26 hours we will separate ourselves from the material world by not eating, drinking, we don’t wear leather shoes (symbol of comfort and wealth), we don’t bathe, wash our teeth, anoint ourselves with oil or cream, we don’t have marital relationships, some wear white, and we don’t use gold jewelry (to not remind H”S of the sin of the golden calf). We do all these to find mercy in H”S eyes and to be able to feel our essence, which is that part of us that is one with G-d called the “Yechida,” making us on that day so holy that we resemble angels.
Yom Kippur is the day in which H”S forgives us for all the transgressions we have done against Him. It is a day of hope and renewal in which our relationship with Him is restored. But the harm we have done to others He cannot forgive. That we have to do ourselves.
Before Friday night think of who you have offended or hurt this year. If you are not in a good standing with someone this is the time to make a call. If it is necessary you should ask forgiveness three times with a witness if the other person doesn’t forgive you in the eyes of H”S you are forgiven and the act of not forgiving someone else is considered cruel.
Remember, your relationship with H”S is as good as your relationship with your fellow men. It is a reflection. So put your ego in the closet and humble yourself, even if you feel you are right and the other person is wrong, be the first to take the step. This courageous act will bring many blessings in your life.
It’s better to be happy and at peace than to be right.
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