09/22/2023
Today is Yom Kippur in the Jewish tradition.
"Yom Kippur, the Jewish Day of Atonement, a day of recognizing our mistakes and working to make things better." -Napa Valley UU Congregation
When the fires hit Maui I reflected on the treasures of Hawaiian culture, like ho’oponopono. So this has been a naturally arising theme for me this Fall.
"The word ho’oponopono roughly translates to “cause things to move back in balance” or to “make things right.” It’s a very zen-like concept. (In native Hawaiian language, “pono” means balance, in the sense of “life.” -GraceandLightness.com
I think the ritual of forgiveness, for ourselves and in our community is a fundamental aspect of healthy functioning. To feel at home in our body, peace in our mind, and close to our community we must acknowledge the falling nature of our human nature.
Grateful for an expansion of the language and practice, I honor Yom Kippur today.
May all beings be free of suffering.
I will practice saying to myself and my loved ones:
“I’M SORRY,
PLEASE FORGIVE ME,
THANK YOU,
I LOVE YOU”
The case for ritualized apologizing