It is a season of hope, of honey and sweetness, even when the world beyond our doors feels bitter. America stands as a stalwart ally to the Jewish state as it continues to prosecute a just war for safety and peace. I imagine that the Jewish state not only surviving the next year, but the next century, and thriving. As the blasts of the shofar ring out, may we hear not only the call to repentance but also the promise of renewal. May this year, 5786, bring sweetness, safety and strength to the Jewish people, to the State of Israel and to all who seek peace.