Arlene Appelrouth’s Rosh Hashanah Message for 2025

These are difficult, chaotic times. I have always been a news junkie – wanting to be aware of what is going on in the world. Not anymore, I have been so disturbed by what is happening I went on a news diet when the present administration began making decisions causing chaos in our democracy. I have found the news disturbing and have been upset knowing what is happening. Even though I dislike avoiding the news, neglecting it has kept me feeling more inner peace.

I believe it is important to maintain a positive attitude and what we focus on molds our point of you, So for Israelis I want to advise them to choose what to focus on.

This past year has been filled with challenges for me. My son, David, was felled by a heart attack. My daughter, Michelle, went through a divorce. I’ve been getting treatment for macular degeneration. It’s been easy to feel like Hashem sees me as a target for trouble. I will not feel like a victim. I am determined to face each challenge and demonstrate resilience.

Rosh Hashanah provides a time for reflection and determination to live my best life.

I am grateful to be alive, I pray this new year will provide opportunities for me to do mitzvahs. It does me good to help others.

As I think of the new year, I pray for the opportunities to be a giver.

What I want to advise to others is to always look for the good and say yes to the opportunity to help others.

Arlene Appelrouth is a former freelance writer for Atlanta Jewish Times.