The High Holy Day experience is a particularly intense one for me. I struggle over sermon preparation. I read through the machzor repeatedly, seeking to discover insights into the deep meanings of prayers, the poetic language, the theology, the underlying liturgical message. I read commentaries ancient, medieval and modern. I also try and find ways to make the holy days awesome in some way for our community. How can Micah help make the season one of transformation, introspection and growth? The entire period from the onset of Elul to the closing note of Neilah is one of religious search.

By Sukkot, I am drained to such an extent that building our family sukkah in our backyard has become what is perhaps my favorite religious activity of the year. It provides many experiences that I enjoy: using tools, feeling and smelling fresh lumber, being outside, combing through sukkah decorations from years past, reclaiming memories of past Sukkot celebrations. It is totally relaxing--no mind drain, just building a sukkah and then sitting in it while enjoying a good book. I once told a friend that the best part was nodding off with the book on my lap while dreaming of the White Sox playing in a World Series. Last year, this particular dream came true as the White Sox won the World Series, which began during Sukkot. Who knows what my Sukkot dreams will be this year? For some of us, world peace would be less of a stretch than the Sox winning a World Series. Kofi Annan, watch out!!!

This is just the point. After the intensity and heavy soul-lifting of the Days of Awe, we need a respite--simple fun. The rabbis considered Sukkot the most joyous of holidays, pointing to its unique description in the Torah which uses the word "celebrate" twice in conjunction with the festival. (All other festivals merit only one "celebrate.")

Hence, we have our Sukkot festival yard sale, magic show and general party. Whereas on the Yamim Noraim we come to the synagogue to do heavy emotional lifting, on Sukkot, it is all physical--either building a sukkah or schlepping to and from the yard sale. The Talmud, in describing the ancient Temple in Jerusalem, says that if you have never seen the Temple, you have never seen real beauty. I say, if you have never been to a Temple Micah Yard Sale, you have never had a real Micah fun time. This is a day that matches "Bowling Together" for sheer fun. And don't miss the magic show--the Great Loudini is simply--GREAT.

So relax--donate your stuff for the sale, come out and buy some stuff that you can donate next year, kick back and have a Chag Sameach!!!