09/18/2026
BLOG- The Courage to Forgive Ourselves
Written by: Kim Fluxgold
Yom Kippur is a time for forgiveness, atonement, and reflection. We reflect not only on the wrongdoings we may have caused others, but also on the ways we may have wronged ourselves.
Yom Kippur asks us to look inward, to examine not only our actions, but our mental and emotional state as well. To be honest with ourselves about what we carry, what we regret, and what we may need to let go of.
Too often, the person we find we need to atone to or ask forgiveness from the most is staring right back at us in the mirror.
Forgiving others can be incredibly difficult. But learning to forgive ourselves may be even harder, and perhaps one of the most courageous things we can do.
I struggle with self-forgiveness every day. There are things I wish I had done differently, words I wish I could take back, and moments I continue to carry with me. But I am learning that self-forgiveness does not mean forgetting, excusing, or ignoring our mistakes. It means acknowledging them, learning from them, and allowing ourselves the grace to heal.
Maybe true strength is not in continuing to punish ourselves for the mistakes we have made, but in having the courage to put down the weight we have been carrying.
This Yom Kippur, may we look honestly into the mirror, not with judgment, but with compassion. May we forgive those we have hurt, those who have hurt us, and perhaps most importantly, ourselves.
May we find the strength to heal, the courage to let go, and the faith to begin again.
Shabbat Shuvah and G'mar Chatima Tova
*Beth Torah wishes everyone an easy and meaningful fast, and may we all be sealed for a year of health, peace, and blessing. May this sacred day be a time of reflection, prayer, renewal, and connection.
