Some may find this surprising, but Yom Kippur is the Jewish holiday that leaves me feeling the most hopeful. I think it’s that the process of reflection and atonement always seems to end on a high note. I don’t know anyone who doesn’t close out Yom Kippur vowing to do more to live up to their values. That we conclude this solemn beat in the Jewish calendar eager to be more present, more loving, and more patient is incredibly moving.

This year, I’m getting a jump on things because I’m already in a hopeful mood. I say this even as our community, and our country, continue to grapple with significant challenges. Lately, I have been thinking about how tempting it’s become to give into division. We think differently about Jewish identity, Israel, partisan politics, philanthropic priorities, and so much more. And the siren call to reject the people who disagree with us has been growing louder.

But here’s where that hope comes in: I believe that as a Jewish community we can handle almost any issue that arises. We have repeatedly proven this capacity over millennia. That’s what makes Yom Kippur—and Jewish tradition more broadly—so compelling. We are called not only to take responsibility for our individual actions and inactions but also those of our community and the Jewish people. We are asked to embrace our collective responsibilities as we work to strengthen the Jewish future and serve as a force for good in the world.

No doubt the coming year will continue to challenge us in ways large and small. We may struggle with significant questions that define what it means to be a vibrant Jewish community. We may even debate core ideas of what it means to be Jewish or live a Jewish life. And throughout these struggles, we may find ourselves lingering in discomfort as we engage with differing perspectives and work together towards shared goals. But even as we do this work, I am confident our wisdom and our bonds will hold. The Jewish people are built for these times. Our community is built for these times. I am more hopeful than ever that we will not only navigate what’s ahead but blaze a trail toward something brighter.

And now, I want to ask: What gives YOU hope? If you have a minute ahead of the holiday, drop me a line and let me know where you see glimmers of good.