Toras Imecha Parsha Parenting

What can we learn from the fact that Bnai Yisrael's struggles in the desert were only in the first two years and last year of that period? Transitions are challenging for our children and even for the greatest generation.

How could Bilaam not have heeded the supernatural message from his donkey? How are we all blinded by our person desires and motives, especially when it comes to our children? How can we move from blindness to open-mindedness?

Miriam's death didn't affect the Jewish people until Hashem took away the water we had enjoyed in her merit. Too often, women's contributions aren't appreciated - here are two lessons we can learn from this story.

Moshe told Hashem that he couldn't carry the burden of an entire nation alone because he wasn't their parent. What did he mean, and what does it tell us about parenthood?

Unity stems from something much deeper than conformity of behavior, it relates to shared spiritual aspirations. The menorah reminds us that we, our children, and other Jews can have different spiritual paths, we are unified because of our shared commitment to Hashem and Torah regardless of superficial differences.

A vessel overflowing with bracha is an ideal conduit to bring brachos to others. This Parsha reminds mothers to fill ourselves up so we can overflow goodness to our families.

It seems to many mothers that we lived more spiritual lives before having children. After children, there is less time for solo study and prayer, but the Parshah teaches us that holiness is developed precisely amongst others, not in solitude.

Pesach Packet is available at www.torasimecha.com. Click on the "Writings" tab, and then on "Pesach Packet".

My birthday is on the same date as Rebbetzin Zahava Braunstein's yahrtzeit. She inspired many women to build Jewish homes and I want to share some of that with you today.

Moshe Rabeinu teaches parents an important lesson in this Parshah - leaders need to understand why people do things wrong. We have to understand the motivations behind mistakes so we can help guide our children back.

We create the simcha in Adar by choosing to be joyous. Purim is a celebration of finding simcha in imperfect situations. This is a powerful lesson for our children.

The Mishkan attempted to replicate Jewish homes, and our homes attempt to replicate the Mishkan.

Moshe Rabeinu was directed to explain the reasons behind the Mishpatim, and at the same time the Jewish people is expected to obey them simply because Hashem commanded us. Is this a contradiction or a beautiful balance we all strive for, both in our spiritual observance and our families?

Judges must be careful not to influence other judge's opinions, or be influenced by them. Each one must vote according to his own view. How can parents help children learn to develop their voice, and make decisions that are true and right for them?

The Jewish people reached the pinnacle of Emunah in this Parshah, and the women, together with Miriam, are singled out for their exceptional faith. What is Emunah and why is it special for women?

The makkos were specific and targeted to explicit goals, not random punishments spewing forth. Parenting also is most effective when decisions are made with an eye to the goal rather than haphazardly.

Hashem sent Moshe on a mission with the reminder that he isn't alone. That same message helps us as parents and is one we can give our children. The knowledge that one has unwavering love and support gives a person the strength to achieve independently.

Why does the situation in Egypt deteriorate before it improves? A lesson for all time in the process of redemption.

At the heart of the Jewish nation is the Jewish family, and at the core of the family is the Jewish woman.

Sefer Braishis ends with the special relationship between Yaakov Avinu and his grandsons. What can parents do to strengthen the bond between children and their grandparents? Join the conversation at www.torasimecha.com!

What is the tragedy of the Torah being translated?

People need to be in a place of rest and safety to fully feel and process their emotions. This explains Yosef's copious tears when reuniting with Yaakov, and it also helps us understand why our kids sometimes fall apart only after the challenge ends!

It is true that our actions are important and have consequences, and it is also true that Hashem alone determines outcomes and reality. As mothers, we have to know both of those truths and stay vividly aware of them.

What does it mean when the Torah says that Yosef collected grain beyond a number? Could they really not count it? Here is a lesson on both the limits and transcendence of the human imagination.

The eight days of Chanukah attune us to the miracles in our lives everyday.