Everyday Gratitude

There is a deep connection between Yom Kippur and Thanksgiving that we often overlook. Both holidays center on intentional practice. Yom Kippur gives us one sacred day to repent, to seek forgiveness, and to account for our actions. We fast, we pray, we examine our deeds. But nothing requires that we wait for Yom Kippur to turn to ask for forgiveness. We can, and should, repent, repair, and ask forgiveness throughout the year, every day.

Similarly, Thanksgiving is a communal moment to name and share our gratitude. Families gather and voice thanks for food, home, and relationships. Yet gratitude need not be confined to a single Thursday in November. Judaism teaches us to begin each morning by acknowledging what sustains us. We say, “modeh ani l’fanecha, Melech chai v’kayam…”, “I am grateful to You, living and enduring Sovereign, for restoring my soul with compassion.” With these words, we set the tone for the day. It gives us an awareness and appreciation for life’s gifts, even the small ones. We hope that it will inspire us to express gratitude throughout the rest of the day.

Perhaps this Thanksgiving, we can all resolve to start each day with the Modeh Ani and use it as a catalyst for cultivating an attitude of gratitude each day.

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Bradley Tecktiel