04/10/2023
The Jewish calendar is filled with holidays.
Holidays are joyful occasions. But there is only one holiday that expressly stipulates that we be joyful: the holiday of Succot.
It is said, 'There is no joy like the nullification of doubts.' This adage derives from a commentary on the book of Proverbs (Mishlei) compiled by King Solomon, the wisest of men.
Why is Succot so joyful?
The holidays that precede Succot, Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur, each with their respective traditions, are joyful but somewhat somber. During those holidays, we are in an inconclusive status, our future yet to be determined. And then, upon the final words of the Yom Kippur prayers, we let go of doubts and rejoice with relief in the belief that the Almighty accepted our prayers.
So, letting go of worries and doubts is the key to being joyful.
In that case, it stands to reason that joyful parenting is - being free of doubts.
That's the gist - not second-guessing ourselves and constantly wondering if 'we're doing things right.' It means being confident in our role as parents sans guilt.
Being confident leads to not doubting ourselves, which leads to being confident... and so on. It's a cycle you want to be part of – that's what joyful parenting is!❤
Wishing you a joyful holiday!
