Wife: “You talk in your sleep and it keeps me up at night.”
Husband: “If you’d let me speak by day I wouldn’t have to at night.”
In the office of the principal’s secretary’s at the Yeshiva College High School in Melbourne, Australia was a sign which read, “It’s only human to make a mistake but it takes a computer to completely foul things up.” (I remember this due to the many times I visited the principal’s office, not due to my above average memory…)
In our age of ubiquitous computer technology, email, Facebook, Twitter and whatever comes out tomorrow, we can sometimes forget the need for real human interaction. Even though truthfully electronic communication can be humanized, we tend to hide behind our devices and manage to deflect real connection.
This has lead to many people craving deeper relationships that they’re not getting. When people are not receiving the attention they need and deserve, it can have many adverse affects. Our children are getting involved in unhealthy relationships, families are getting pulled apart and friends are being alienated.
The good news is that this is not a technology problem and it is not beyond our capability to correct. It is a human problem. And as such, it is a mistake that can be rectified. However, as with everything of real value and importance, it takes real time and commitment.
The Talmud refers to the mitzvah to rest on Shabbat as a “gift”; G-d said to Moses, “I have a precious gift in my treasure house called Shabbat.” Now more than ever, we can truly appreciate the value of this gift. It affords us an opportunity to reconnect with the truly important dimensions of our life, first and foremost our family and relationship with G-d.
Like I mentioned, incorporating such a change into your life requires a real commitment. But before you rule it out, challenge yourself: begin by dedicating one Friday night a month to observe Shabbat. Welcome the Shabbat by lighting the Shabbat candles, continue with an in-home family meal and see what happens. You’ll see the difference immediately.