OUR TREES OF LIFE

    This Shabbat is  referred to as Shabbat Shirah as we read of the inspiring miracle which occurred at the Sea of Reeds as the Jewish People were escaping the onslaught of the Egyptian army.  The Sea was before them and they were awaiting the great miracle of Hashem to split the Sea permitting them to walk through on dry land to safety.

  This Shabbat we also commemorate the holiday of Tu B'Shvat, our Jewish Arbor Day and as the Mishnah states it is ראש השנה לאלנות. It is interesting that our Torah compares Man to a tree. This comparison is to inspire us to be like a tree. For as we look at a tree and it's beautiful foliage we realize that all its beauty is a result of the fact that the tree has deep roots in the ground and that it is nourished and sustained by earth around it and by the rain that pours down by the grace of Hashem. 

    Man equally needs strong roots and the blessing of G-d, to bring forth beautiful and spiritual foliage-children and grandchildren who will continue to be inspired by their parents and grandparents to continue their magnificent heritage and continue to bring Nachas to their respected families and for  Hashem as well. 

  These are times that we need to instill in our children's lives a greater sense of Yiddiskeit and a greater dedication to Torah and Mitzvos. 

   Let us become the trees of Torah for the future, עץ חיים למחזיקים, and to inspire others to a greater love and devotion to Torah and it's way of life. We may not have to cross the ים סוף, but we all,at some time, need to cross many highways  and byways to achieve our goals in life and we could always use the miraculous intervention of Hashem to bring about our hopes and our dreams. 

    May this New Year see that the fruit of our efforts be realize and may the Brachot of Hashem always be upon us. 

      

                        שבת שלום ומבורך

לעלוי נשמת יחיאל בן יעקב משה ז״ל