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From the part of me I try to escape from, comes these thoughts. Acceptance, as being a witness to the passing of folk hero’s. I read that Kris Kristofferson has passed away, he was 88. Kristofferson is just one on the list that seems to know no end. Among the rich and famous through the year comes the anniversaries of family and friends. And, if that’s not enough to bring sadness into your life, comes the High Holy Holidays. The holidays which awaken past traditions that growing up in Brooklyn, with family all around me, friends at every corner, candy stores for comic books and egg creams and Hymies Deli for a hot dog and fries. As I look around, I see that so many of the leaves on the family tree are named with one love one after another, it’s so sad.

I know, OH, how I know, that this is part of the life we are lucky enough to be living through. A life where one grows from child to adult, from Paulie to PAPA, these are so very normal. But, I ask you, does it have to coincide with the mixed blessings of the holidays? Does it have to amplify the sadness I’m feeling during the High Holy Holidays?.

When I light the candle to remember the anniversary of my father’s passing (9/21/88) I also remember my Mom’s, Brother’s and aunt and uncles that were essential in my upbringing and with whom I had not spent enough time with. How very sad. How I wish I could have one more day, hour or just nod between us. I wish I didn’t miss Tham all so much. I am very sad.

Wednesday night (10/02/2024) marks the start of Rosh Hashanah and in my meditation I’ll try to remember the many lessons bestowed upon me by my family. These things were said to me as I was growing up.

Mom: If you don’t get a career job, you’ll have to join the service.

Dad: It is just as easy to date a rich girl as to one that’s not; YOU JUST NEED A LITTLE MORE CAPITOL.

BUBBIE: On how to relieve my boredom: Bored, knock your head on the wall…

Zaddie: My first lesson in family POLITICS; If you were a SALTZMAN You could get into the Union. (its a long story).

I’d be remised if I didn’t add just one friends advice: “what mother is going to sign Enlistment Papers sending her Son into the Navy? Call her bluff.” He was wrong and off I went in April 1961 to begin my service in the US NAVY. And for the record, I am still waiting for the Union to call. And this same friend enlisted into the US Air Force.

So, I consider myself to having a good life. I have a lot to be happy about and the sadness will pass with time, even if only for a short time. So In closing, I want to wish all my friends and family a Happy and Healthy Holiday. May the New Year 5785 keep you safe with hugs and love to fill your heart. And may your sorrows pass quickly. may the light of Rosh Hashanah fill you with happiness.

Hashanah Tovah.