#elul2018

Rabbinic tradition teaches that we all have two opposing forces compelling us: yetzer hara and yetzer tov. Some rabbis teach that we need a balance of “yetzer hara” (selfishness) and “yetzer tov” (selflessness). Without selflessness, the world would obviously be a cruel place, and we would forget mitzvot that involve looking out for others. But without selfishness, the world would also be desolate. No one would have children, build themselves a house, or express themselves with art. In this framework, how well have you balanced your “yetzer hara” and “yetzer tov” this past year. Which do you need to listen to more this coming year?

Sometimes there’s someone who won’t forgive you. Maybe you can’t apologize because they passed away or you have no way of getting in touch with them. Or maybe no matter what you do or how much you apologize and change they just aren’t ready to forgive you. Which of the steps of teshuva (from day 17’s prompt) can you complete? How will you do this?

I’ll be tagging prompts and other content as #Elul2018 and #Elul5778 (when I remember to...). I invite anyone to join in with these tags.

While Judaism generally discourages us from dwelling on loved ones who have passed away, Elul is traditionally a time to visit cemetaries and honor loved ones who are no longer with us. Is there someone you’ve missed this year? What can you do to honor them? If you aren’t missing someone this year, watch BimBam’s video “A Jewish Guide to Helping Your Friend in Mourning” then read “Helping Someone Who’s Grieving.” Think of a friend or family member who may be reliving a loss this Elul. What can you do to support them?

In what ways has teshuva been closer than you expected this month? In what ways has it been farther? What do you still need to work on as you enter the Ten Days of Awe (time between Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur) and the new year beyond?

Read “Is Forgiveness Necessary?” by Rabbi David J. Blumenthal. Sometimes someone who’s wronged us won’t repent. They might have passed away before getting a chance, or refused to apologize or to change their ways. Do you think we should forgive such a person anyways? If not, how can you let go and move on without their repentance?

(From @better-latke-than-never‘s post “Expressive Elul Writing Prompts.”)

From @better-latke-than-never’s post “Expressive Elul Writing Prompts.”