For every Jew, there is one annual “salary review.” That is Rosh Hashanah, when one’s wealth for the coming year is determined. Income is not the only item under review, however; expenses for the year are also determined at that time. The Chofetz Chaim cites a verse in the Talmud (Bava Basra 10a) that states the concept: “Just as a man’s sustenance is determined on Rosh Hashanah, so man’s losses are determined on Rosh Hashanah.” On the very first day of the year, Hashem decides what that year will cost each person. Hashem decides upon the amount of the expenditure, but man has a hand in deciding how the money will be spent. If he spends it on chesed and tzedakah, he will receive the vast dividends derived from those mitzvos. Otherwise, he may well find himself spending it on his automobile transmission or his termite problem. ~ Sefer Ahavas Chesed

May we all have a Kesiva Vichasima Tovah!