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Dear Shaar Young Families,
Lag Ba'omer, which falls this Tuesday, is one of those Jewish holidays that's not quite a holiday, and it’s also not always understood. During the time of the Omer, we are in a period of semi-mourning, related to the plague that struck the students of Rabbi Akiva. (Somehow, this year, a plague is something we can relate to.) The most important lesson that the Jewish sages learned from this plague was the importance of loving and caring for one another, something that Rabbi Akiva’s students failed to implement in their own lives. This is a time for reminding ourselves of our interconnectedness, and our responsibilities toward one another. Lag Ba’Omer is a day of joy and celebration. You can read more here.
What's most compelling about Lag Ba’Omer is the way it has been expressed most fully in Israel, as an "outdoorsy" sort of day, filled with bonfires, picnics, and BBQs. Maybe this year, we can use it as a reminder of the lure of the great outdoors. Even on the days are not quite warm enough for long hours outside, we can create the outdoors right in our own homes - bring out a pile of blankets and have the kids help you drape them across the furniture. There's nothing like a homemade fort to inspire all kinds of family fun. Maybe you can roast marshmallows (on a fire or the stove, who cares!?) or tell late-night stories by flashlight. During these days of social distancing, home-made fun is what we've got. And for kids, honestly, that's plenty. Look around the house and see what kind of magic you can create. You'll enjoy it too!
Wishing you a peaceful and delightful week,
Rabba Rachel
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