Gmar Chatimah Tova! Wishing you an easy fast and a holiday season filled with meaning and purpose. In this video, I share some reflections on how we can strengthen ourselves, our communities, and the world we share. I speak about raising our level of chesed (kindness), embracing a mitzvah that can become part of our lives, and finding new ways of giving that we may not have considered before. The goal is simple yet profound: to ensure that goodness outweighs evil, that light overcomes the darkness around us. If I hurt you in the past year (5785 / 2024–25), I sincerely apologize and ask for mechilah (forgiveness). I also encourage you to reach out to those you may have wronged — as our sages teach, the very world was created for the sake of forgiveness. What a powerful idea. Am Yisrael Chai. My deepest gratitude to our brothers and sisters in Israel who have fought tirelessly to protect the Jewish people and make our world a better, safer place for everyone. To all Jews, and peoples everywhere who have stood strong against antisemitism and hatred, well done. Be strong. Remember, this too shall pass. Sending hugs, with love. Please share this message. Thank you. Avrum