The Holiday of Sukkot is referred to as the time or holiday of joy or happiness. During this time we have a mitzvah to show extra joy, more than on all the other Holidays. When the temple stood this was manifested by a great celebration which took place in the Holy Temple every night of Chol Hamoed. In our times though, we still must take the steps which will bring us to joy and happiness. I heard in the name of a number of different sources that the amount of Joy and Happiness we show during this time will establish the amount of happiness we will have in the upcoming year.  

Shmini Atzeret is the end of Sukkot and it is the time when the Sages teach us that the final judgement for the upcoming year is sealed. Throughout sukkot and we still have an opportunity to change the judgement which was decreed upon us but after that point it becomes exceedingly difficult to change any decree.There are still a few more days left for us to all show our happiness and joy during the holiday and  by doing so may we all merit a very happy new year.

Shabbat Shalom and Chag Sameach!

Heath