Guest Author - Paula E. Kirman

"Tikkun olam" literally means healing or repairing the world. Many are familiar with the magazine Tikkun, which addresses social issues from a liberal Jewish perspective. However, tikkun olam is not just a pastime of the left wing. It is a Jewish obligation.

At the centre of Judaism is the G-d who we believe in, who created the world and us in His image. It only follows that we are to care for that which He created: the environment, wildlife, and each other.

If this sounds like New Age mumbo-jumbo, it isn't. Caring for the world is the most Jewish activity one can take part in, apart from formalized Jewish traditions and rituals. In light of the history of our people -- the hatred and destruction we have faced -- it is our responsibility to fight injustice, racism, environmental destruction, and a multitude of other evils.

Taking part in charitable work, being active in political causes, and volunteering one's time to do anything from tutoring an underprivileged child to planting trees in reforestation projects. They do not have to be specifically Jewish causes, although Jewish people tend to donate their time and money to Jewish charities. And there's nothing wrong with that -- however, if we are to be a light unto the nations, we need not restrict ourselves.

I honestly believe that during the High Holidays, which is a time of reflection, not only should one focus on the sins he or she may have committed, but should ask the question: "Over the past year, what have I done to make the world a better place?"