Rosh Hashanah Reflections: 6 Lessons from a High School Senior’s Journey

As I reflect on the past year, I am reminded of six lessons that I have learned from the last Rosh Hashanah until this Rosh Hashanah. The number six holds significant meaning in Jewish tradition. When something “is surrounded on all six sides—north, south, east, west, above, and below—it is complete” (chabad.org). These six lessons listed below make me feel complete. The seventh day represents rest and reflection, signifying everything I have yet to learn and my continued journey.

Lesson 1: Live Fearlessly
Contrary to the title, this is not about rock climbing without a harness. Instead, it is about my podcast, Fearless Interventions, which has given me great joy and purpose. Starting the podcast with my friend Jacob has helped me connect with others and share important stories. Our goal with the podcast is to share a guest’s story through a Jewish lens with a teen perspective. Our podcast fosters intergenerational dialogue, connecting with the broader community while fearlessly discussing growing up and living Jewishly in today’s challenging climate. I would love for you to join us at @fearlessinterventions.
Lesson 2: When Life Hands You Lemons…
As my Doda (aunt) often said during the pandemic, “If life hands you lemons, hopefully, they are lulus.” This past year, I learned that even during challenging times, it is important to find the good in a situation, even if it is difficult. Looking back over the year, I may not have found the good as quickly as I could or should have. But as the year wore on, with the help of my mom and many others, I started to find the good a lot sooner.
Lesson 3: Support is Not Just for Construction Projects
Just as support structures surround a building to keep it safe and sturdy, I have learned the importance of surrounding myself with supportive people. These people cheer me on and offer guidance, support, and love. Support comes from my family, friends, and the podcast community, to name a few. Having their support reminds me that I have people I can turn to when I need help or have a question.
Lesson 4: Sometimes the Little Things Are Indeed the Big Things
As I mentioned in a previous article, one “little” thing—my 11-month-old dog, Dora—provides me with endless joy and life lessons. Remembering to embrace others with an open heart and not to judge people are two lessons Dora has reinforced for me this year. Before the pandemic, I used to travel with my grandparents and mom during school vacations. Due to COVID and other circumstances, this past summer was the first time we traveled together on a cruise in five years. Spending a few days with my grandparents was extraordinary; moments I will never forget, like playing cards with my grandma or chatting with my grandpa in the library.
Lesson 5: Change is More Than Coins in Your Pocket
While change can be challenging, I learned this past year that it is better to adapt to a new situation, accepting unexpected twists rather than fighting it. This year brought a lot of change for me. Looking back, I cannot say I always welcomed or appreciated the change at the time, but today I am grateful for it
Lesson 6: 10K Steps a Day
Amidst all of the chaos this year has brought, both personally and within the Jewish community since October 7, 2023, I have learned the importance of maintaining (and starting) healthy habits. This includes walking and exercising, spending time with family and friends, and taking a digital break occasionally. I especially appreciate the “tech-free” conversations with my mom while we walk Dora daily. The world seems to slow down during these moments, and I get a moment to appreciate and reflect on the day’s events.
Lesson 7: Focusing on the road ahead
The seventh lesson is to look to the future while reflecting on the past year. I am excited and ready to embrace whatever comes next—college, new friendships, and things I cannot yet imagine. I am confident that if I bring the first six lessons along with me, I will be ready for whatever comes next.