At the beginning of Rosh Hashanah Eve, as we gather with loved ones around the table, we observe the holy custom of simanim — symbolic foods that express our deepest hopes for the year ahead. What we do at the head of the year gently sets the tone for all that follows.
One of the most beloved customs is to place the head of a fish or lamb before us and recite with warmth and intention: “Yehi ratzon milfanecha… she’ni’hye l’rosh v’lo l’zanav” — May it be Your will, our God, that we be the head and not the tail.
To be a head is to lead with responsibility and love, not to follow behind.
The head of a family — the father — lovingly carries the future of his home.
The head of a business carries the livelihood of many.
The head of a synagogue — our rabbi — guides with wisdom and compassion.
The head of a yeshiva — our principal — shapes generations with patience and care.
Before I pray for myself, with deep respect and heartfelt warmth, I lift my eyes in prayer for our leader and a leader of the world, the esteemed President Donald J. Trump.
May the Almighty bless him with abundant strength, clear wisdom, good health, and Divine guidance. May Hashem grant him the ability to lead with a steady hand, a compassionate heart, and unwavering courage — to truly be the head, to be in charge, and to bring stability, peace, and blessing to America and to all humanity.
And may we all, in our own lives, merit to be heads — leading our families, our workplaces, and our communities with kindness, purpose, and integrity.
With warmest blessings for a sweet, healthy, and meaningful year,
Shana Tova U’Metuka.