Once I developed a Mussar practice, however, it felt like every month was Elul and every day was Selichot. Every day – might I say every moment – became an occasion to engage in Cheshbon haNefesh, an accounting of my soul. Every interaction became a chance to look into the face of an other and ask: “How can I best be present to you – see your joy and your pain, hear your cry, touch your heart?” “How are my words and behavior impacting you?” “Is my busyness an excuse to not attend to your – or my own – emotional needs?”
And so, as I — on behalf of the entire Board of Directors of CCM — wish you much sweetness in the New Year, I also hope that your Mussar practice provides you with continual opportunities all year to engage in the contemplative work of Cheshbon haNefesh so that together we may bring transformation to our relationships and our communities.