When this issue of the Shpiel is received it will be at a time we find ourselves in the Temple reminding ourselves of the importance of Commitment and Understanding.

We will be commemorating a day that encourages us to reflect on what was, in the hopes that what can be is influenced by the past. It is not easy to think back, not only of the joyous moments, but the not so wonderful experiences that form our journey of life and even reflect on our wishes and desires.

Yom Kippur is not just about a Book Of life that records happenings of each of us and all of humanity as well. Rather it symbolizes the challenges of life itself and its significance in each of our experiences.

Yom Kippur was designed to remind us that our destiny is shaped by words and deeds. It is the utterances that result in actions that represent the blessing or curse for us and those around us.

Our attention is drawn to a fundamental tenet of human endeavors – to transform ourselves from less to more, from less caring to more giving, from less compassion to more love.

However, to me, the most meaningful aspect of caring and sharing is in a simple word: Commitment. Endurance and fulfillment include the understanding of continuity. Our responsibility is the commitment to the continuity of the generations and is enhanced by our efforts to ensure that what the generations before us taught will be carried on by us and those who follow — to guarantee that the chain that has endured for 5,000 years is not broken because of indifference or complacency.

When we conclude the Neilah prayers on Yom Kippur afternoon, and the Shofar is sounded for the last time, and as the sun is setting, we then wake to a new dawn of understanding how glorious life is and how important it is for us to celebrate every moment.

Then, as we finish our supplications, we turn our attention to another holiday, a significant holiday named Sukkot. Its meaning is simple — illustrating the dwellings the Israelites built and lived in during their 40 years of wandering until arriving at the River Jordan. Our people went through indescribable difficulties to finally see the efforts of their journey — the Land promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob — the arrival to witness the next chapter in realizing their destiny.

Sukkot is one of three Pilgrimage holidays (along with Shavuot and Passover) and carries with it its distinct meaning for us as we wander into unchartered waters as we mature. Sukkot also is a reminder of God’s protection. Just as the Sukkah we erect gives us shelter, God attempts to shelter us from the consequences of our choices. Just as the temporary dwelling reminds us of how precarious life’s journey is, God attempts to guide us through the paths we determine for ourselves. However, more significant than that, is that the lodging we build can disappear without warning. God reminds us how fleeting our existence is and attempts to comfort us in our time of need.

Yes, Yom Kippur and Sukkot are connected in so many ways. We beseech God on Yom Kippur, and we offer our gratitude to God for the goodness and mercy he extends to us every day on Sukkot.