It is a frequent reminder of how difficult it is to let go of bygones, even something so pedestrian as an exit number.
Change is hard. Our human inclination is to cling to the comfortable.
Every year, the arrival of the Hebrew month of Elul is stark a reminder of the passage of time, bringing transformation, desired or not.
The word “shanah” means “year,” in Hebrew. It is also based on the Hebrew root for “change.” The very name of the holiday Rosh Hashanah reminds us that each year brings change.
Since rosh means “head” and shanah means “change” Rosh Hashanah literally means “Head Changing Day.”
Our tradition reminds us to enter the new year with a new head and open hearts, whatever may lie ahead.
