Last week, I bought a new brand of detergent.

It promises to remove all stains, even those stubborn, impossible-to-remove ones – or your money back. Guaranteed.

Amazing, huh?

I couldn't wait to get a stain just to try it out. And with a family of a bunch of kids, I didn't have to wait very long.

You know what? It really does work wonders. Chocolate, grass, even lipstick — it takes them all out. Effortlessly.

But after a few washes, I noticed something else about my wonder-detergent. As good as a job as it does, it also dulls color. The shirts are no longer as bright. They look kind of worn out. Used.

I guess I shouldn't have expected more.

But imagine if you could find a detergent that removes stains, and simultaneously makes colors look brighter, more prominent. And better yet, even makes the fabric look newer, not worn, but stronger, improving the texture of the material. Not only as good as new — but even better!

Impossible? Probably.

But there is a wonder-gift that G‑d gave our world.

It's got a brand name called Teshuvah, repentance. Not only does Teshuvah remove the stain of sin from the fabric of our souls, it actually makes our souls sparkle even brighter. By making us aware of how stained we've become, it propels us to invest more energy and effort into strengthening our bond and connection with G‑d. And that makes us look even better than ever.

Imagine going through the wash cycle, and coming out looking even newer and brighter. Sounds too good to be true?

Now that's something to package.