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Today was our last day of school for 2020. I am completely exhausted and drained emotionally, mentally and physically but as I watched my dear students leave school I was overcome with a sense of accomplishment, pride and gratitude. Our children have done it tough this school year, going in and out of remote learning, the uncertainty and fear of what will be, and yet, what strikes me is their incredible resilience and ability to bounce back. I am choosing to celebrate their achievements rather than mope over what could have been and in that way feel blessed to be a מחנך (educator).
The next time you spin the dreidel think about how while the dreidel is spinning we cannot see the letters that form the sentence נס גדול היה שם. It’s only once the dreidel stops that the letters symbolizing the miracles come into focus.
Miracles surround us each and every day. Hashem lovingly watches over us, protecting and guiding us in a camouflaged way. However, we are often so distracted that we rarely appreciate the many miracles that are sent our way. It is only when we pause and intentionally pay attention, that we recognize the miracles in our life and feel grateful for them. Last night as we sat by the Chanuka lights each member of our family shared something that they were grateful to Hashem for that happened this year. We then davened together for Hashem to continue to shower us with His blessings. It was a very special experience and one that I would encourage each of you to do with your families during Chanuka.
When we practice being grateful to Hashem in a meaningful way, we train ourselves and teach our children to connect with Hashem in a deep way as we search for Him in every domain of our lives. As you light the first candle of Chanuka tonight focus on how one single candle can light up the darkness. Contemplate how one small spiritual action can ripple on into eternity and illuminate the lives of future generations. The small group of Chashmonayim could have thought that the darkness was too intense for them to affect, however these courageous individuals realized that their actions now will change the course of history and therefore chose to do the seemingly impossible with deep faith in Hashem Echad.
As you look at that one candle tonight ponder what YOU can do to illuminate the darkness and bring us closer to Geulah. Experiment today with processing each experience through a positive lens. To do this effectively, before you begin your day, take 5 minutes to meditate on the concept of Hashgacha Pratis and how Hashem is choreographing your environment and every interaction to lead you closer to your true self. Daven for the sensitivity and wisdom to perceive the good in the people who enter your circle of influence today and the strength to transform any negativity into positivity. With this mindset you transition through your day with intention and purpose as you confront each challenge, celebrate every achievement and sanctify each moment.
I just spent 24 hours in the great outdoors with a group of my students. There is something special about leaving the confinements of the city behind and escaping to nature. We sang around the fire, worked as a team to complete initiatives, hiked through majestic terrain and discussed important topics. I was impressed by my students' willingness to bond with Hashem, their Rebbeyim and each other while pushing themselves beyond their comfort zones. It is always uplifting to watch children who are usually withdrawn and unmotivated find expression and thrive in a camp setting. Creating these opportunities for our children is paramount and must be prioritized.
ויאמר אלקים יהי אור ויהי אור
As we walk through life in search of Hashem, we ask, אלקים - יהי אור, Hashem I am in the dark, let there be light...please illuminate my world. When Hashem sees our genuine and sincere desire for His light, He responds, יהי אור – Let there be light. With this concept, the Holy Baal Shem Tov is teaching us that the first step towards ruchniyus illumination is an honest awareness of your present situation. Only then can we daven that Hashem lights up our path so that we experience His presence in every aspect of our life. The need to teach
Burns deep inside The student’s soul To nurture and guide. The need to teach To inspire and share To guide and counsel You know I care. The need to teach Illuminating the dark That is there beneath To reveal your spark. The need to teach To give the key That opens locks And helps you see. The need to teach To comfort and heal With love That is genuine, pure and real. The need to teach So that one day You will be sure Of why you’re here. Each nisayon (challenge) you face is a wrestling match to strengthen your spiritual muscles. The holy dust that rises heavenward brings much nachas to Hashem as He witnesses your mesiras nefesh to convert darkness into light. As you confront each nisayon you tread the path of Yaakov Avinu who struggled all night with his malach and did not concede until he transformed the malach to the point where it wanted to rise to shamayim and sing shira before Hashem. Feel blessed to be the descendant of Yaakov Avinu who embedded within your spiritual DNA incredible chochos hanefesh to reach your personal greatness.
To develop a meaningful relationship with a spouse, a child, a student or friend, you need to dedicate distracted and focused time for communication. If the relationship is important to you then active listening and thoughtful discussion is the key to strengthening your mutual bond. This concept is also relevant to developing a meaningful relationship with Hashem. Devoting a set time for open communication with Hashem where you can be your genuine raw and real self without fear of judgement or feelings of inadequacy.
If you listen closely you will hear Hashem calling out and waiting for you with loving anticipation. |
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