How would you best describe parenting?
If you said: Serene, peaceful or relaxing, you are probably describing the mood after the kids fall asleep. :)
But what about before those little angels doze off? Why is raising a child so often tiring and taxing?
I believe the secret is found in this week's Torah portion, Nitzavim-Vayelech. When Moses gathers the nation on the day of his passing, he brings them into a covenant with their creator, and leaves the young generation with some of the educational messages that were crucial for the continuity of our people.
"Not only with you am I making this covenant and this oath, but with those standing here with us today before the Lord, our G-d, and [also] with those who are not here with us, this day." (Deuteronomy 29, 13).
Who is he including that is not present for this event? The commentaries explain: "Also with future generations" (Rashi).
Moses realizes the enormity and the magnitude of the moment. True, at the time, the nation was already some three million strong, but it was actually much much greater than that. In addressing them, Moses sees the future generations who would be born from them, and by extension is addressing them too.
This past Wednesday, when 32 children walked through the door to begin a new year of Chabad's Hebrew School of the Arts, we realize the weight each one of these children carry. They are the key to countless individuals who will come as a result of them, and will be influenced, directly or indirectly, by them.
So, the next time you feel run down with educating a young child, realize that you are not just educating one child but thousands of children. No wonder it is so tiring, and at the same time... all the more important!