Tonight begins Rosh Chodesh Elul - the final month before the Yomim Noraim (the period from Rosh Hashana to Yom Kippur). But you knew that already - didn't you?

Elul - A Time to Reflect
The Month of Elul and Selichot
Rosh Chodesh Elul by Tony Bayfield
ABC's of Elul

If you had an important court date scheduled -- one that would determine your financial future, or even your very life -- you'd be sure to prepare for weeks beforehand.

On Rosh Hashana, each individual is judged on the merit of his deeds. Whether he will live out the year or not. Whether he will have financial success or ruin. Whether he will be healthy or ill. All of these are determined on Rosh Hashana.

Elul -- the month preceding Rosh Hashana -- begins a period of intensive introspection, of clarifying life's goals, and of coming closer to God. It is a time for realizing purpose in life -- rather than perfunctorily going through the motions of living by amassing money and seeking gratification. It is a time when we step back and look at ourselves critically and honestly, as Jews have from time immemorial, with the intention of improving.