By Rabbi Patrick Beaulier
Yom Kippur, a day often associated with fasting and the solemn sounds of Kol Nidre (the minor chords of the guitar or the organ, or even just a voice), is not merely a day of seeking forgiveness.
In fact, forgiveness is likely not the best thing to focus on — surprising, I know. Isn't that the whole point? We ask each other for forgiveness; we pray to God for forgiveness. I mean, isn't that what we have been telling each other for thousands of years?
Yes, but really, no. And here's why.
Forgiveness is important. It's an act of absolution, a release from guilt. We need to seek it, and when appropriate, to give it. It's the first step of Yom Kippur. It's why we hear Kol Nidre, all vows. So we get through forgiveness...and then what?
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