When approaching a new year, I often notice two very different attitudes.
One says, “So what? It’s just another year. Nothing will really change. Next year will be more of the same me, the same everything.” And when you look around, it can be tempting to agree. Political discourse has sunk to unprecedented lows, even spilling into horrific violence. Society feels more divided than ever. It is easy to lose hope and expect nothing better ahead, personally or collectively.
The other attitude sees a new year as a fresh opportunity, a chance to grow, to advance, and to tap into potential that has not yet been realized.
But here’s the question: why? Just because the number on our phone calendar changes, or we replace the old calendar on the wall with a new one, does that really mean it is time to be excited?
Here’s the thing: Some view life as a cycle that repeats endlessly. Judaism, however, teaches a very different perspective. Yes, the cycle of the year repeats, but it is not simply duplicating the same energy as before. Think of it like a spiral staircase: even though you circle around, you are not standing in the same place. You may be on the same side, but you are now on a higher level.
The calendar may seem to repeat itself, with Rosh Hashanah coming “again,” but in truth we are standing on a higher step, receiving fresh, unprecedented Divine energy that is released into the world with the arrival of a new year.
In fact, the word Shanah itself carries a dual meaning: to repeat and to change. With the right mindset, the chances are far greater that this year will indeed become HaShanah – “the” year. The Divine boost is already provided, but we cannot remain passive. We must claim it.
Let us prepare now to show up this Rosh Hashanah, ourselves and with our families. Starting the year on the right foot can make all the difference, helping us grow personally while also bringing much-needed light and healing to a deeply fractured world.