Elul: A Month of Preparation

Week One: Elul Overview and High Holiday Prep
Elul 1-7 /August 21-27

Key Questions
• What aspects of our “best selves” have slowly diminished or been lost altogether over the course of the past year? How can we begin to recover the personal qualities that help us to be and live at our best during the days of Elul? 
• Throughout the year, but especially during the past five months, how successful were we at maintaining a sense of balance in our lives? What personal changes can we pursue throughout Elul to recalibrate?
• What would it look and feel like if we were able to begin the New Year with a genuine sense of balance and equilibrium in our lives?

Key Actions
• Jewish tradition teaches that our homes should be a mikdash m’at – a smaller version of the sanctuary. In preparation for Holy Day services, go on a tour of your home (with your family if appropriate) with the intention of deciding where you would ideally like your “Home Sanctuary” to be, where you would like to attend High Holy Day services this year. What can you do, or what do you need, to help enhance the space? Comfy chairs? A nice candle to represent your Eternal Light? Special artwork created by family members? “Reserved” seats on the couch for each person (😊)? Would relocating your computer for the Holy Days give you more options? If so, and if you need assistance, be sure to plan accordingly and click here for our Temple Sinai Tech Tune Up. Make a list of things you can do during the coming weeks to get your space ready, or complete the attached acrostic. 
• Consider ways to adjust your personal schedule if necessary to ensure adequate time and balance for all of the important components in your life – family, work, self-care, fun. And be sure to include ways to help others in the year ahead, whether in your neighborhood, the world, or your family. If identifying new ideas and actions, perhaps create a list as a reminder. 

Week Two: Learning and Growth
Elul 8-15 /August 28-September 4