Rumor has it that the most simultaneous, universal water consumption occurs during halftime of the Super Bowl. Consider it a collective usurping of resources.
Could you imagine the other way around? Imagine if hundreds of millions of people simultaneously did an act of sharing, a selfless deed. Or recited a prayer. Or shed a tear for a friend. Or gave a loved one a hug.
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Our Rabbis teach us that on Yom Kippur the essence of the Jewish soul emerges from a potential year-round slumber. On this day all Jews are equal. No one is holier than another. No one is closer to G-d than another.
Can you imagine the power of one soul? It’s infinite.
Now imagine the collective gift of all the millions of souls sharing and giving, introspecting and praying – all at once.
You have just imagined the power of Yom Kippur. A time of Global Jewish Holiness.
Let’s make the most of it.
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This Shabbat is called Shabbat Shuva, meaning the Shabbat of return. It’s the time taken off from the world around us – so we can reflect and prepare for the holiest of days.
G-d does not expect us to become someone we never were meant to be – or are incapable of becoming. Rather, we are simply asked to come home. Return to our core. Return to our roots. Return to our Source.
On Yom Kippur, all we need to do is raise our hands. Show up. Put in the effort.
If we show up at G-d’s front door, Hashem will sweep us inside.