Do you ever feel hopeless? Perhaps you made a huge mistake and can’t find a way to fix it? Or you keep failing in a certain area and wonder if there’s any way to get up out of the rut you find yourself in?

Guilt is a healthy emotion that can encourage us to reflect and repair. However, if it is felt too strongly, then we lose the resolve to find the way back up.

In this week’s parashah, Hashem instructs the Jewish people to create “cities of refuge” for those who accidentally killed a person. These cities were inhabited by the Levites, the teachers of the people. Even before we have settled the land, Hashem tells us that even though we will fail and make mistakes, there is always a way back in.

In these cities, a person was given a chance to reflect and grow. The Levites would model lives of kindness and respect for human life, and this would help them to learn better ways and build a new path for themselves.

Nowadays, we don’t have cities of refuge, but our communities and our homes can act as a refuge to those who are looking to repair their mistakes.

People who are wracked with guilt, may feel judged and spurned. We can open our hearts and show them love and acceptance. Of course, restitution needs to take place, and their repentance must be sincere, but without a warm and embracing home to return to, their chances of reform are slim.

“There is no one in this world who does not sin” (Ecclesiastes 7:20). We all fall at some point, and I, personally, am so grateful when my friends and family help me back up.

When we look out for those who have fallen or are falling, we create a positive and nurturing space for everyone. Hashem sustains all human life, and waits patiently, providing so many opportunities for us to return.

So if you are struggling and want to find a way, why not try your local shul? And if you are a member of said shul, can you open up your heart to welcome them?