As we continue the process started in Ellul, we know that we are engaging in a long process of separating ourselves from this world in order to perfect ourselves, spiritually, as Jews. Some people think this process ends on Yom Kippur when we are “as angels” - no food, no physical needs. However, while this process to Yom Kippur is necessary and essential to our growth as Jews, the process does not end there.
Rav Mordechai Elon Shli”ta once told a story of himself and his Dad when he was younger. I’ll try relating it as I can remember it. On the first Yom Kippur on which he fasted, Rav Elon got very excited towards the end of Neila. He really felt purified; all of his sins were cleansed. However, as soon as the shofar of Yom Kippur was blown, and as soon Yom Kippur ended, he heard the congregating, RIGHT AWAY, start Maariv with the words: “Vehou Racoum Yechaper Avon” - “And he is the merciful who will forgive our sins”. At this point, Rav Elon asked his Dad - Dad, we were just cleansed from our sins, we are pure and clean: Why do we need to ask for forgiveness now? Maybe by the time the Shmona Essrei comes around, we will have problems of Kavanah in our Tefillah or something - but right now? Why do we need this? Yom Kippur just ended!
Rav Elon’s Dad answered - You think Yom Kippur just ended, and ask why we should ask for forgiveness? Well, the reason why we need to ask for forgiveness is for thinking that Yom Kippur is over!
