pesach message 5769

Dear Friends

As the Holiday of Pesach approaches we look to the Torah to see its eternal message and inspiration for our times as well as its lesson for all eternity. One of the key aspects of Pesach is the "Haggada" read at the Seder Night. The word "Haggada" means "to tell" it is referring to the obligation to tell over the story of leaving Egypt during the Seder in general and in particular to children.One might ask; how do you get a child that has no interest in listening to hear the story you are obligated to tell? The answer to this question is hinted in the process of the Haggada itself. First we begin with ”Ma Nishtana" a question and answer technique. Then we address each of the "Four Sons" in a different way, each according to the level and intellectual ability they have. We learn what the Torah tells us "Chanoch L'nar Al Pe Darko" - "Educate the Child according to his Way", is real and must be practiced. More so, not only when educating a child but in other areas of Jewish practice as well. A "cookie cutter" approach does not work. Though "Halacha-Jewish Law" is binding and applies equally to all the proper way to pique the interest of a child or to get an adult to practice the law with warmth involves a more individual approach. In practice we find this as well with regard to the "Mitzvah of Rejoicing in the Holiday ". There the Rambam writes that each person must rejoice by acquiring that which makes them happy; for the adult male-meat and wine, for the female of the home-nice clothing, for the children-sweets. Each must be given that which appeals to them to rejoice them and make them happy. Specifically in our times of confusion where people mistake light for darkness good for evil. When forces of all sorts are working hard on influencing children, their identity, future and values. Children must be given clear guidance of right and wrong however a gentle hand approach which recognizes their individuality will work better to inspire them then a heavy hand and generalities which can cause them to g-d forbid loss all interest. Most important of all, is the need to let our children know we love them with an infinite love above and beyond all things on earth. With this point in mind I conclude with a poem and blessing for much Yiddisher Nachas from our selves our children and a Happy and Kosher Pesach to all. May we be redeemed from exile this month of Nissan. Amen

Y. W.

A Child’s Joy…A child’s joy …Is not from of a toy…His heart does not skip a beat … in anticipation of good times to come.A child’s laugh….Is not only from a joke well told or a tickle under the chin.A child’s smile ….Is not only from a kind word said or tears washed away by a kiss upon the head.What makes him trust you to share a whispered secret with you or his childish woe’s without fear of rebuke?What will inspire him to follow you as an example of goodness that teaches him right from wrong?Show him unconditional love…Then his smile will stand eternal…It will illuminate his face with happiness…His feet will dance with joy…He will hold his head high with confidence…and follow your every word.The child knowing that you acknowledge him to be a most special cherished gift from G-d that he indeed truly is will live with an inner peace knowing that he is loved and special in G-d’s eyes and the world and that you as an adult- and his parent love him and know it too…and treat him so.