It is the beginning of the month of Elul. The Talmud tells us that the Hebrew letters in the name of the month אלול stand for the phrase: Ani L’dodi, v’dodi li, which means: I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine – a quote from Song of Songs. We liken our relationship with G-d to that between two lovers. Rosh Hashanah is like our anniversary or perhaps a moment of reconciliation, depending on how good your relationship with G-d has been over the past year!
Another verse associated with this idea, also from Song of Songs:
Ani Yeshena V’Libi Er Kol Dodi Dofek Pitchi Li
I am asleep, but my heart awakes. It is the voice of my beloved, knocking on my door: “Open to me.”
Tonight I asked my adult education class to write love letters to G-d. I did not have them read them aloud to the group, nor did I share mine. However, I will share it here. Perhaps some of you reading this will decide to write your own.
Dear G-d,
This hasn’t been the easiest year for us, but I want you to know that I still love you. I have felt your compassionate, guiding presence even at the most difficult junctures. You are always there for me, and I want you to know how much I appreciate that. I do not express my gratitude nearly often enough for all that you do and for all that you are to me. It is truly amazing to me. While you are the be-all and end-all of the universe, above and beyond anything imaginable to a human mind – you are at the same time an intimate confidant, a constant comfort to me. Your world amazes me – your creativity and ingenious design, and most importantly the beauty of it all. I am not always good at expressing my love, but especially at this time of year, I want you to know how much I love you. Please don’t feel like you need to knock. My door is always open to you.
Love,
Tamar
