I thought 'I've probably done worse'.

Rabbi Patti Haskell

Good morning, God, happy Elul.

This day, one thing do I ask of you, God,

One thing do I seek:

To dwell in your house

All the days of my life.

… and while I dwell with you

Perhaps a few more things I might request:

Good health is at the top of my list—

For me, my family, my loved ones,

While we’re at it how about everyone, everywhere. And perhaps food:

A healthy nosh for all who are hungry.

Quench all hunger and thirst with your love.

We do hunger for more than food and drink, so

Please quench other needs as well. Okay, how ‘bout safety.

Safety from earthquakes, hurricanes,

Safety from one another.

Safety from all that frightens us

Safety to rest in your care. And laughter.

Please give us much fun, silliness

to giggle at, many many smiles.

Smiles as we watch children investigate their worlds,

Smiles as we explore the lives of our elders. God, let me behold your graciousness

Today… each day of Elul… each day

Of this year, and next, and then the next,

While I visit your temple

When I recited the Ashamnu on Slichot, my own personal failings didn't feel as overwhelming and damning as they did when I was Mormon, because I am reminded of how the community is there to help me do better. I also felt as if I was not just praying for myself, or even my local community, but all of humanity, as I said the same words that people around the world were saying and have been saying for thousands of years.