"Forgiveness means that after I make my apology, I'm off the hook. Atonement means that I am engaged in hard work to restore the relationship to its original state. [...] Our amends to G-d are not an apology, but rather a sincere attempt to restore the relationship on His terms -- the way He likes it." -- Rabbi Ben A., 2008-10-04
[I wish an easy fast to my Jewish friends celebrating Yom Kippur, a joyous celebration to Muslim friends celebrating Eid al Adha, and a happy day with well-behaved pets to Catholic and Episcopalian or Anglican friends celebrating the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi (especially if you're taking the beasties to a Blessing of the Animals service)!]