יום ב Date: 29 Adar II, 5774 (3/31/14) – Sukkah#56 {Tani}

ACCOUNTABILITY – 

Braisa [56b bottom]: A woman married a Greek officer and when they conquered the Beis Hamikdash (Holy Temple), she stood atop and kicked the Mizbaiyach (Altar). She yelled at G-d for stealing all the Jews’ money and not standing up for them in their time of need. After hearing of what transpired, the Rabbanan closed the ring (that was used for preparing sacrifices) of that group that her family belonged to. She learned disrespect from her parents, and her entire group/watch was even penalized because “woe to the wicked one and woe to his neighbor.”

T’s Lesson#1: We are accountable for every single person in our religion. If even someone else rebels or goes ‘off the Derech’ (path) WE are held accountable. “Kol Yisrael areivim zeh lazeh” (we are all responsible for one another). Every person is important, whether they are a famous doctor or a simple garbageman; no one should be left to fall through the cracks.

T’s Lesson#2: Children learn traits from their parents. It is imperative to restrict what one says aloud when children are being raised in a home. The effects of words are far-reaching that remain with children down the line. One hateful remark, or angry comment that is said against our way of life (even if it sounds innocuous like “I hate how much effort Shabbos is!” or “It is so expensive to make Pesach…”) can have far-reaching effects to young impressionable children. We should be careful to watch what we say in front of our children, even if they sound harmless. The way in which we say them can be harmful enough.

T’s Lesson#3: Surround yourself with a good neighborhood. If one lives among bad people, even if he himself may start out good, he will ultimately end up being swayed by the evil around him. Situate yourself in a surrounding that is conducive to learning and growing. Your family will have a positive impact on children, and they will blossom without having to worry about neighborly wayward influences.