Finding Hope in Times of Fear
In times of immense fear, uncertainty, and upheaval, when our regular routines are disrupted and we feel like we’re lost at sea, where do we turn? How do we navigate and find the bearings and coordinates to maintain equilibrium? We are living in such times right now. In my lifetime, I don’t recall so much uncertainty in so many areas. The word "uncertainty" itself seems almost inadequate. Think about the Middle East, Israel, the volatility in Europe, Ukraine, Russia, and the United States with its unpredictable presidential elections. The global threats seem endless. So, how do we navigate? Where do we turn?
A Timeless Formula
The good news is that we have a timeless formula, a method that goes back over 3,300 years. It teaches us how to navigate in times of fear and uncertainty when everything seems shaken up. This method is captured in the book "60 Days: A Spiritual Guide to the High Holidays." We’re now entering this period, called 60 days, encompassing the Hebrew months of Elul and Tishrei. These months teach us how to regain balance after disruption, reclaim love after betrayal, and find hope after despair.
The 60-Day Journey
This 60-day journey is about finding hope in times of fear. It is a story of love, beauty, and wholesomeness, which then faces betrayal and violation. The question is, how do we reconcile and repair what was broken? How do we rediscover love and rebuild after destruction?
The months of Elul and Tishrei are the most momentous in the Jewish calendar, beginning with Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and culminating in Sukkot and Simchat Torah. This period teaches us how to find peace and harmony, even in a stormy sea. It reminds us that life is a journey, a continuum, and a narrative.
Embracing Uncertainty
We thrive on predictability and security, but when these are disrupted, it can be disorienting and demoralizing. Trust is fundamental in life, and when it’s broken, it leads to fear and uncertainty. The 60-day journey teaches us to find steadfast, unwavering foundations in our lives.
Key Steps to Finding Hope:
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Identify Eternal Values: Write down a list of items that you can pass on to future generations. These are values like love, kindness, generosity, and gratitude – spiritual values that transcend time and space.
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Counter Fear with Strength: In times of challenge, focus on what is permanent and eternal. Hold on to these values for dear life. They are stronger than any fear.
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Build Trust and Relationships: Trust and relationships are crucial. Focus on building and maintaining these, as they provide a solid foundation during uncertain times.
The Power of Commitment
When faced with fear and uncertainty, we have to dig deeper into our inner strengths. This is the opportunity to rise to the occasion and discover what gives us eternal strength. It’s like a tea bag – you don’t know how strong you are until you’re put into hot water.
Practical Actions:
- Study: Dedicate time to studying something spiritual and transcendent daily. This lifts your mind beyond the daily confusions.
- Prayer and Emotions: Say a prayer, sing a song, or read a poem that emotionally stimulates you and connects you to eternal values.
- Acts of Kindness: Reach out to someone with a kind word, offer help, or provide support. These actions create a ripple effect of positivity and hope.
The Collective Strength
We must also embrace the power of community. The synergy of working together amplifies our strength and hope. By sharing this message and supporting each other, we can transform a world of darkness and hostility into one of love, peace, and divine knowledge.
The Month of Elul
The Hebrew month of Elul is a time of compassion and empathy, known for the revelation of the 13 attributes of divine mercy. It is a period to reconnect with our inner strengths and find hope in times of challenge.
Embrace the Journey
The 60-day journey is a tool, a methodology, and an approach to travel through life with resolve, commitment, and devotion. It counters the fears that come from the unknown and provides us with a foundation to hold on to, no matter what happens around us.
May you find inner strength, resources, and actualize them on this journey. For additional resources, please visit us at the Meaningful Life Center and subscribe to our YouTube channel.
Simon Jacobson here from Meaningful Life Center. Please help us continue our programs by making even a small contribution at meaningfullife.com/donate. Be blessed and well on your journey.
