"Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish New Year, commemorating the creation of Adam and Eve, the first human beings.

On Rosh Hashana, the Books of Life and Death are open on the heavenly desk. On this 'Day of Judgment,' we each stand before God and offer our best case for being 'created anew' -- i.e. granted another year of life." Rabbi Shraga Simmons

This Rosh Hashanah there's nothing more precious to our family than to be granted another year of life.

Beginning tonight, Friday, September 18 at sundown, Jews celebrate a new year in the lives of our people, starting 5,770 years ago.

It hasn't been easy. A lot of events have conspired to kill us. Some of our own making, most a seeming endless series of tests and trials and suffering.

Our longevity in the face of such overwhelming odds is a tribute to the strength of the human spirit. A passionate dedication to life, family, learning, hard work, perseverance, humility, courage. Helping others, especially those less fortunate.

Plus, of course, Faith. In God and in each other. And really, whether or not you practice any organized religion, life requires faith ... in yourself, your family and friends, your own humanity.

In our family, our faith is being sorely tested this year. But through the next 10 days until Yom Kippur we have the opportunity to review, regroup, marshal our inner resources. And pray.

On these highest of High Holy Days we are also being offered a clean slate. A chance to start over. To approach a new year with hope. And faith.

No matter what your belief system, or lack of one, on this Rosh Hashanah I wish you health, happiness, success, laughter, joy and kindness. And renewed hope and faith.

May the coming year bring long life, peace and security to America, to the Middle East, to our planet. To each of us and all our loved ones.

I'm offering three different Rosh Hashanah stories to help explain, inspire and comfort. They are universal and personal. The last is dedicated to Karen. And all who fight to choose life.

Choose Life
Sometimes, the most inspirational messages come from those who appear to have the most difficult burdens.

For more information on the holiest days in Jewish life: High Holidays - Rosh Hashana, Yom Kippur, Shofar and more

If you're Jewish and can't get to a synagogue tonight, you can hear the Shofar here: