My Rosh Hashanah "Vinch" (New Year's Wish) for You

I have had a blessed year of book talks and podcasts.

I love all aspects of all the experiences, including the most mundane of things. When I do these, I'm doing what I love, and they're increasing with frequency.

A highlight is signing my books for participants.

Ever since I was a child, I have always affixed my version of "BSD" (בס"ד, an acronym for the Aramaic expression which means, "with the help of Heaven") at the top of anything I write. This is a general cultural way of acknowledging the presence and guidance of The Creator in all matters, from the gargantuan to the minuscule.

For me, it's about a little bit more, because when I speak in public, and when I sign a book, affixing this at the top of the page is my expression of gratitude that I GET TO DO THIS.

I explain this to inquiring book signees who have never seen such a thing. They seem to be charmed by the idea.

As I travel more, write more, and experience more, my feeling of gratitude only increases. I continue to affix this reminder; it's good to stay humble and thankful.

And as my gratitude increases, when I look out at audiences to whom I'm thankful for participating, I inwardly hope that every person present is able to experience gratitude and thankfulness and fulfillment as well. Sharing one's light does not diminish what you have, says Rav Shmuel in the Talmud, but it increases the total.

This is what I wish for you, dear reader, and for everyone you love, in this new year and beyond: that you have a sweet, positive year filled with accomplishment and satisfaction, in all your endeavors, be they personal or professional. I am experiencing this in real time, thanks to you, and I project this back to you. Full circle.

Shana tovah umetukah!

I'll see you out there.