Coping with the Burden of Life

Coping with the Burden of Life

Human life is divided into three main periods.

The Taking Period- The time of childhood and adolescence, where the child grows up beside their parents receiving everything from them: food, clothing, enjoyment of childish pleasures, trips, and more. Even as they grow and become adolescents, they are still dependent on their parents' support.

The Giving Period- Once they declare under the chuppah "You are consecrated to me," this marks the beginning of the major giving phase in life, initially to the spouse, fulfilling needs, offering, sharing, and caring as obligated by the ketubah. As life progresses, responsibilities increase; the family expands, requiring focus on education for the children and support for their development. However, the burden now rests on the individual's shoulders more independently.

The Reciprocity Period- After the children's weddings, when parents become young grandparents, the period of reciprocity begins. They no longer wake up to their children's cries or rush to prepare sandwiches in the morning. Though they assist their married children as much as possible, they partake in guidance, advice, and take pride in the expanding family. This article, with the help of Hashem, aims to address coping with the burden of life.

The Core of the Matter.

The burden of life constantly follows us. The pressure builds us; without setting goals, efforts cannot be directed effectively, leading to little achievement. It is important, therefore, to recognize life pressures as natural, whether academic or other, encouraging us to reach designated goals. Even countries like Switzerland, known for peace and tranquility, highlight that comfort zones often lack creative accomplishments.The Midrash states, "It is good for a man to bear the yoke in his youth - the yoke of Torah, wife, and work."This highlights the paradox wherein pressure and life challenges actually inspire creativity and spiritual growth. Ultimately, pressures help channel time effectively, encouraging spiritual and personal growth when balanced properly.Allowing these ideals to embed deep within us shifts perspectives, easing life's challenges. "In the path that a person desires to walk, there they are led."

In Conclusion.

Without a burden, there is no success; it gives life meaning and fulfillment. Visualizing burdens as beneficial creates a positive cycle of success through responsibility. With Hashem's help, we embrace the blessing to nurture our sons and daughters towards a life committed to Hashem, linking happiness with responsibility.

"And may we succeed in raising sons and grandsons, wise and understanding, who love Hashem, who fear Hashem, men of truth, holy seed clinging to Hashem, illuminating the world with Torah and good deeds, and all forms of serving the Creator."