A man orders dinner in a restaurant, and soon after his food arrives, he calls the waiter over: “I’d like to speak with the chef,” he says. “May I ask what’s wrong?” asks the waiter. “Please call the chef immediately,” insists the man.
Moments later, the chef arrives. “Chef, taste this food,” says the man.
The chef reaches for a fork but can’t find any cutlery to eat with – “how do you expect me to taste the food?” he asks.
“Aha,” says the customer…
We live in a fast-paced world. Going through a busy workday, with little time left for our families and the things we enjoy and cherish. And so, our stress levels build with each passing day, leaving us anxious, tired, and in need of some serious relaxation therapy.
The Torah has an amazing solution.
Stop. Take it easy. Reserve one day of the week for yourself. Turn off your cellphone, computer, TV, and all of that background noise. Create a quiet space in your week for just you and your family. Prepare a homemade dinner, spend time together, relax, and revel in peacefulness.
Taking a day off allows us to enjoy the rest of the week! It’s like the fork that allows us to enjoy the meal. The Torah calls it Shabbat!
Shabbat allows us to own ourselves. We aren’t slaves to our technology. We turn them on, and off. We tell them where they belong. Many will tell you that they don’t even think of answering the phone. That is real freedom!
Shabbat is a huge blessing.
Wishing you and your family a Shabbat Shalom
Rabbi Mendy
