I didn’t fast on Yom Kippur
But I nourished my body for my unborn child and contemplated who I want to be for my growing family
I didn’t fast on Yom Kippur
But I attended services online and looked for meaningful ways to connect with community in prayer and solidarity
I didn’t fast on Yom Kippur
But instead of becoming angry with my children for being children, I took them out to play and socialize and burn energy after being cooped up all weekend
I didn’t fast on Yom Kippur
But I shared with my spouse that I would not partake in sweets in a way to refrain from my daily routines and focus on intentionality with food
I didn’t fast on Yom Kippur
But I mended my relationship with my spouse and children by being present in the moment and honest about my feelings in a positive way
I didn’t fast on Yom Kippur
But I began to heal a wound of trust with my spouse and that takes forgiveness and love and willingness to change
I didn’t fast on Yom Kippur
But I was gentler with myself and those around me
I didn’t fast on Yom Kippur
But I refrained from thinking or speaking negative thoughts about myself
I didn’t fast on Yom Kippur
But when my spouse confronted me about something I did that bothered him, I didn’t fight or defend my actions. I listened and I heard
I didn’t fast in Yom Kippur
But I made my time online intentional by reading about the day and how other Jews are coping and choosing and forgiving themselves and one another
I didn’t fast on Yom Kippur
But I didn’t recoil or withhold love and affection from my spouse
I didn’t fast on Yom Kippur
But I taught my son about not judging people based on their looks or differences
I didn’t fast on Yom Kippur
But I made plans on how to carry teshuvah and repentance with me everyday to bring me closer to my best self
I didn’t fast on Yom Kippur
But I chose not to argue or fight when I realized I was misunderstood
I didn’t fast on Yom Kippur
But I gave my children undivided attention by intentionally leaving my phone outside of playtime
I didn’t fast on Yom Kippur
But I helped to arrange a beautiful family visit and outing for the holiday season
I didn’t fast on Yom Kippur
But I prayed for the complete healing of my brother and talked with him while he recovered
I didn’t fast for Yom Kippur
But my heart and mind were in the place of positive change
And I pray that my actions are acceptable to HaShem, my rock and my redeemer
May we all be sealed for goodness, today and always.
