The Path and the Method

We have read and meditated much on the word teshuva this last month, some say it means repentance, some say it means return, but what does it really mean? How can we make it real in our lives as to effect not only our life but also our sphere of influence? I have read and listened to so many meaningful and well meaning teachings but I have to admit I still was looking for a way to walk it out, how to make it manifest in my life that it would bring about true change. This teaching touched my heart because as always I find my most meaningful inspiration in the Holy Scriptures.

The Maggid of Metzritch explained that the Avoda of Teshuva must attain a level that HaShem descends as it were to create and vivify the world with His life force. Everyone who heard this teaching were profoundly stirred. The Tzadik R. Meshulam Zusya of Anipoli said that he could not possibly attain the heights of such Teshuva, but he could break down Teshuva into its components, each letter of the word teshuva is the initial of a verse:

T--Tamim-"Be sincere with the Eternal your G*D" Devarim 18:13
SH-Shiviti-"I have set G*D before me always" Tehillim 16:8
U--V'ahavta-"Love your fellow as yourself" Vayikra 19:18
V--B"chol-"In all your ways, know Him" Mishlei 3:6
aH-Hatznei's-"Walk discreetly with your G*D" Micha 6:8

As we pray and meditate on these scriptures we can move from a state of potential to a state of actuality. Yes the Holiest of Days is a solemn day to be sure, but it is also one of joy and awe, it is said that on this day, more then at any other time we are closest to the very heart of G*D. I am one for looking back at my fondest memories and am always a little sad that they went by to quickly. Shabbat ends to soon, my time spent with my beloved friends ends to soon and I know this Holiest of Days will be over to soon. I will try as you all will to grasp as much of HaShem as I can, to ask that He stand for me and with me so that I don't have to face this world alone. I can appreciate the request of Moshe when he asked to "see" HaShem, on this day I will request of HaShem to" see" what He requires of me, may my heart be open to His reply.

Know that my heart is with all of you on this day, all my beloved friends who love HaShem as much as I do. If I have caused any one of you any pain please believe in my heart that I never meant to do so. May you have any easy and joyful fast.
Much Ahavah, emunah and shalom, Elizabeth