March 13, 2020
Remember when we all stood at Mt. Sinai and wondered what was taking so long? For forty days and forty nights, we grew restless and wanted answers. We didn’t cope well with uncertainty, and eventually built a golden calf because they could wait no longer for a god to lead them.
This week’s Torah portion recalls that tale.
I can’t help but feel like we are in the desert once again. The things that define normalcy in our lives are no longer things we can count on. Our schedules and plans may change at a moment’s notice, and we feel out of control.
Like the Israelites, we are waiting for direction, for research, for vaccines, for any tidbit of information that will help us promote public health. In the absence of that information, we make up stories in our heads and live with anxiety. It’s as though we are suspended in time.
Unlike Moses, who didn’t have email or texting, we are fortunate to be able to keep in touch with you as the uncertain future takes shape. I hope that our frequent emails home about the plans for keeping our community healthy are helping ease your anxiety.
Children are also hearing about the potential of a future school closure and are sensing the nervousness of adults around them. How we communicate with them impacts their feeling of safety amidst change. The National Association of School Psychologists share these recommendations.
This weekend, please take the time to read through the article and talk to your child about the things they can count on in uncertain times: loving teachers and parents who are here to protect them, a community that is grounded in values, and their ability to make a difference in the world.
Shabbat Shalom,
Cheryl Maayan
Please check this page of our website for updates about our school’s response to Coronovirus.