RAE’S READS

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This year (2025) finds me with 53 years of teaching “under my belt.” I have taught all levels from pre-K “(library lady” or “book lady”–volunteer) to juniors, seniors, and graduate students enrolled in my Advanced Writing class at the university where I have just completed 34 years. My first paying teaching job was junior high, and I spent 13 years with ages 12-13, the “difficult years.” I had some of the “funnest” experiences with this age group. When I was no longer the “young, fun teacher,” I taught in an elementary school setting before sixth graders went on to junior high, teaching language arts blocs, an assignment that was a “dream-fit” for me. After completing graduate school in my 40s, I went on to community college, then university teaching. This past fall I accepted a part-time teaching job at Apogee Gulf Coast Schools in its first year at the Alvin campus. After my Better Half died n 2022, I achieved a lifelong dream: opening a bookstore of my own, Rae’s Reads. A year later, I sold the house we had lived in for 47 years and moved into the bookstore. My goal is to circulate and repurpose books. Just as teaching is “in my blood,” so is a passion for reading, writing, libraries, and everything bookish. This blog will be open to anyone who loves books, promotes literacy and wants to “come out and play.”
Yom Kippur greeting card or background. vector illustration.

In my devotional today I found the following:

“Jews observe the High Holiday of Yom Kippur, the day of public and private atonement, a sacred withdrawal from the world for 24 hours in order to become right with God and others, so that real life might be renewed with passion and purpose.” Today (9/15/21) at sundown, Yom Kippur begins. This past Sunday (9/12/21) The Houston Chronicle ran the article, “High Holy Days offer a chance to look inward.” Below, I have highlighted the best of the article.

Rosh Hashana (New Year’s) and Yom Kippur occur during the ten day span known as “The Days of Awe.” “During these days, Jews are tasked with re-evaluating their relationships–with friends, family, and God. They are also charged with reexamining their actions and priorities.” One is encouraged to acknowledge/confess all their sins, both those of commission and those of omission, and ask for forgiveness, both of God and those to whom those sins were committed. Questions to ask oneself at this time include, “Was I kind, compassionate, and loving? Was I sometimes nicer to strangers than to my own loved ones and friends? “

During Yom Kippur and throughout the ten days, one is to devote time to prayer and spiritual growth. Forgiving others and forgiving ourselves is also important. Like New Year’s resolutions, one is expected to set goals for the year ahead. This can be done through journaling (I have begun a gratitude journal), meditating, or going on contemplative, quiet walks alone. This provides one a chance to look ahead at where we’re going and to change course if needed. Take time this Yom Kippur for soul-accounting, something required of the season.

A day to sort out our souls and to atone for our sins

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  1. Davida Chazan Avatar
    Davida Chazan

    Thank you. May you be written and sealed in the book of life.

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