I am eight years old, and it’s Rosh Hashanah. I’m sitting in a synagogue, and I don’t really know why. I know that I like the singing, and I like seeing my grandma. I like all of the standing up and the sitting down and standing up again. What I like even more is fluffy challah, steamy Matzo Ball Soup, and knowing the evening will bring quality time with my family. I like that I’m a part of this happy thing, but I don’t exactly know what this thing is. 

I learned through my time spent in synagogue that Judaism is not a universal practice, but for each individual to define for themself. I began to approach Rosh Hashanah and my Jewish identity through the lens of culture, family, and gratitude. Judaism is a vast, diverse, and evolving religion that can be observed and celebrated in any which way—with community, with your family, or even by yourself. Here are The Tribune’s tips for a fulfilling and joyous Rosh Hashanah. 

Gather with your community

Organize a time to come together with friends, whether they are Jewish or not, to mark the significance of this time. This is an opportunity to share memories of past celebrations and teach your non-Jewish friends something new about the sacred holiday.

Enjoy the simple and accessible treat that is apples and honey—a traditional Rosh Hashanah snack, signifying the goal of a sweet and fruitful year. An easily prepared and delicious treat, apples and honey are a Rosh Hashanah staple.

Connecting with family is also a great way to mark the new year and connect with Jewish culture. Call your parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, or cousins, and wish them “Shanah Tova Umetukah”: A good and sweet year. 

Get ambitious in the kitchen

Is there any better time to tackle the family challah recipe than the High Holidays? Spending holidays away from home can be a bittersweet thing, for which a potential antidote could be tasting traditional food. If the family recipe is lost in translation, or simply didn’t make it to Montreal, check out this recipe for a classic braided challah.

Ditch the kitchen, and hit the classics

Some don’t have the willpower, time, or space to make bread from home—and that’s okay. Instead of waiting for your dough to proof, taste the foods from home at classic Montreal restaurants. Check out Schwartz’s Deli for smoked meat, Beauty’s Restaurant for a classic Jewish breakfast (lox, latkes, and blintzes), or Snowdon Deli for a hot brisket sandwich and killer french fries.

Look out for on-campus events

Independent Jewish Voices McGill (IJV), a chapter of IJV Canada, is a group focused on organizing and uniting Jewish students who support Palestinian liberation and strive to fight the harmful blurring of anti-Zionism and antisemitism. They frequently host student-led events, such as their recent potluck dinner, creating a space for students to come together and celebrate from the comfort of their campus.

Take a moment to reflect

Find a space where you feel at peace, maybe under a tree in Jeanne-Mance Park or in bed with your journal, and look back on the past year. Perhaps make intentions for the year ahead, or think about your favourite moments of the past year. Consider both the highs and lows, and what can be learned from these experiences. If being this intentional with your reflection feels unlike yourself, keep these ideas of gratitude and new beginnings in mind as you go through each day.

Remember to be kind and generous with the people in your life. The world is a confusing and scary place, and it can be easy to lose yourself in the slurry of anxiety and pessimism. Channel your appreciation for the good in the world into producing more of it. Create a feedback loop of positivity, nourishing both yourself and the world around you.