Day of Atonement

There are a lot of striking images in the liturgy that we're using. Here are some bits and pieces:

Imagine iron in the hand of a blacksmith,
who at will may shape it or melt it down.
So we are in Your hand, source of support.
Please focus on our covenant, not on our flaws.

Our good deeds clothe us like rags ... please listen!
Our sins have turned them scarlet ... please forgive!
When we call to You ...please listen to our voices.

One of the sins for which we beg forgiveness is "succumbing to despair."