High Holy Day

Today marks the High Holy Day on the Jewish calendar known as Yom Kippur, which began last night at sundown and lasts until sundown tonight. This day is also called 'the day of atonement,' reminding us that we all have someone or something in our lives that needs to be forgiven -- including ourselves. 

Today, take a clean sheet of paper and a red pen and write down something you need to forgive in your life. Giving forgiveness is never easy, but we can hardly expect to be forgiven our own transgressions if we don't make room to do the same to or for everyone else.

 You have been given the strength, fortitude and compassion to rise above any hurts as you begin to recognize the blessing included in any wrong done. Ask yourself: 'Whom have I hurt and who has hurt me?' Now, make a list of three people you must forgive and three who you would like to receive forgiveness from. 

The entire time you are writing this list, tell each name you forgive them -- aloud. In three days, burn the paper anywhere outside -- allowing the smoke to clear the air. Then, trust that it has.