The first day of school is just around the corner. Children are excited about the fresh start, new school gear, and the thrill of moving up a class. And parents are no doubt also looking forward to having the children back in a structured environment (did I already say - finally?!).
The past few weeks, Devorah and I were tasked with coming up with some creative ways of keeping the children engaged with activities and out of trouble. It didn't always go as planned.
One day we planned and splurged on a great trip with attractions and all. Somehow the kids managed to get at each other's nerves and they returned sour and upset. Another day, we planned nothing. We simply asked the older kids to create a 'camp' for the family. Before we knew it, there was a schedule prepared, crafts and competitions were set into motion and the day turned out to be a great success.
Then I realized. Children don't just want to be kept busy and entertained. More importantly, they want a sense of purpose and meaning to their day.
This idea is echoed in the opening of this week's Torah portion, Re'eh: "See, I set before you today [two paths] blessing and course. The blessing, if you listen to the Mitzvos of Hashem..."
This is not merely a commandment, this is begging us to open our eyes, see, that each and every action and choice we make has tremendous significance. An opportunity that was personally given to us from G-d to serve as a source for blessings in our life.
My blessing to my children and all children is that this new school year be not only busy and productive, but a year in which they see and feel a sense of purpose in their learning and character development.