Some time has passed since we had our Jewish High Holidays – an excellent time for self-improvement in September and October. Through the fourteen or more festive meals over the Jewish Holidays in September and October, I found myself running Hotel Hendeles with my children and grandchildren around me. I’ve been enjoying my music therapy practice where I provide therapeutic activities for elderly in hospice.

And, I’ve been enjoying my empty nest with my husband. Babysitting our grandchildren, hosting barbecues and other events for the family and friends, have been some of the things that keep us busy.

Two steps forward, one step backward. Whether it’s the month of Rosh Hashanah or three months later, it’s always a good time to reflect on the past, regroup, and then move gracefully (or not) into a better future.

But, this is serious, right? Today is Election Day, and we are looking back and forward. Back at what has taken place in our country and world the past months and days (for better or for worse). And forward at the various possibilities of political, community growth. Moving forward on every level.

Today, people in every state vote on the local level.  And Election Day,  ironically is coming right before the beginning of our Jewish month of Kislev, which is the month which has the Jewish holiday of  Chanukah  which is a special month of miracles for the Jewish people…but that’s for another post!

On Election Day, we all cast our votes for who we want to be our Governors of our states, our Congress members – both Senate and House, and for the various propositions on the Ballot. There’s been lots of buzz on the news – both radio, social media and print, mailings and other forms of ads,  about who to vote for, what propositions to cast yes or not to, and so forth.

But in that voting both, it’s just you and yourself.  It’s who you vote for. What or who you choose to elect. And you count. I count.  We all count. With the help of the One Above, may the right ones win.

So, let’s get out there, moving forward in our lives in the best ways that we as human beings can do. It’s our right as Americans. Go vote!

Addendum:

Several of my good friends often post reflectively about their lives. Here’s Faigie Horowitz’s insightful post on female friendships.  In the online Jewess magazine, Faigie explores the various ways that women interact, share, and vent with their friends. Go check her out.

Now go spring forward (even though it’s fall and time for falling back…) and go vote!