It’s the happ, happiest time…..of the year! No, we’re not talking about Happ Road…..we’re talking about Adar!!! (I often hear the best puns from our very own Rabbi Heaps and thought in the spirit of the holiday I would insert one of my own here).
That’s right Temple Jeremiah, this week marks Rosh Chodesh Adar, the month where we celebrate Purim as well as the month where we are told to increase the happiness in our lives. Many of you may know about the joyous festivities surrounding the holiday of Purim, but that joy is also supposed to expand throughout the entire Hebrew month of Adar!
For those who have met me, many know that I am typically a very happy person. I try my hardest to always look on the bright side of life. During times of crisis, I try to take the outlook of knowing that everything is going to work out the way that it is supposed to. Even I will admit though, that keeping this outlook all of the time is not always healthy and not always sustainable. Things aren’t always going to be sunshine and rainbows, but when possible, it’s great to have a mentality to push through the hard times until you get back to the rainbows.
Life can be challenging. We never know what obstacles will come our way and every person handles life challenges differently. What I love about the month of Adar is that it is not commanding us to be happy, but it is a month of happiness. For those who may be struggling, know that it is okay to not be okay. If possible, however, think of the message of this month and take a second every day to just take a big breath and breathe thoughts of positivity into your day.
Temple Jeremiah is an incredible place. One day I see hundreds of children laughing as they learn what it means to be Jewish. I see families come together to celebrate in a variety of Simchas. I also see families and mourners come together to gather on sad occasions. Through it all, this is a building that is there for everyone in sadness and in happiness. This Adar, no matter the reason for coming into the congregation, I challenge everyone to look around and smile at what goes on in this building. We are here for all of you, and hope that we can bring a little more joy into your lives this Adar.
Chag Sameach,
Matt Rissien