Moses gets top billing, but Aaron played an important role in the Exodus. Aaron and Moses worked together. They made a good team and exemplified the kind of sibling relationship we all hope our children will have. So, what can we do to encourage this bond? How can we avoid falling into the trap of favoritism?
Honoring traditions is a vital part of Judaism. But sometimes, we need to think outside the box when it comes to children with special needs. After all, God didn’t exclude Moses because of a speech impediment.
What would I have done without Nana Evelyn’s wisdom? She was a tough lady who scoffed at self-pity and criticized people intent upon proving their problems were the worst. At the same time, Nana Evelyn emphasized compassion and empathy for others. Few exemplified this behavior more than Moses.
Two amazing people, Jared and Laurie Berezin, came up with an idea to help promote mental health outreach at MIT. The sculpture, “Helping You, Helping Others,” uses art and wooden marbles to encourage people to ask for help and give help to others. It is an incredibly imaginative idea.
Reaching out to others is an integral part of Judaism. But sometimes we need to reach out for ourselves, especially when we have an issue with a child.
Parenting is the toughest job. I don’t know a single parent who doesn’t doubt herself and think others would have done a better job, at least when it comes to certain things. During these low moments, it is important to remember “This, too, shall pass.” Sukkot reminds us life is fleeting, and we must focus on the positive.
Deflecting blame never leads to anything positive. Aside from avoiding responsibility, we turn ourselves into permanent victims. So how can we teach our kids to avoid the “blame game”?
Shavuot celebrates God’s gift of Torah. The gift. Not the receipt. And as parents, how do we give to our children? How should we expect them to receive?
College students can no longer be kids with summer jobs. They must be summer professionals with internships. How do we teach our children an opportunity can be a privilege, not a right?