שבת Date: 1 Cheshvan, 5774 (10/25/14) – Yevamos#21 {Eliezer}

GUARDS and BLOCKADES

[21a middle] R’ Ashi: Rabbinic laws are like Guarding an orchard. It is much easier to guard it from before the entrance, but if one is watching from within the field it is almost impossible to protect it.
R’ Ribiat: It is like traveling on a congested highway with police blocking off two lanes of traffic, and we become frustrated with all the blockades. But when we come closer and recognize that they were saving us from destructive massive potholes, we can appreciate the guards that were set up.
R’ Rosner: Rabbinic laws should be recognized not as barriers but as protections to save our lives.

D-E-ep Thoughts: Our lives can be filled with annoyances and disgust or gratefulness and appreciation. We chose our emotional states. Even when we do not understand the rhyme or reasons, we must put our trust in the Rabbis and Hashem that they know truly how to help us and only do what is for our ultimate best.