A Good Cry

by Devora Gila Berkowitz

Parshat Vayechi

Pass the Kleenex -- Yosef's crying again.

He's got the distinction of having the most tearful outbursts in the Torah. He cries when he reveals himself to his brother, when reunited with Binyamin, upon seeing his father, at the death of his father, and when the brothers ask for forgiveness.

And despite being treated so badly, he also openly discusses G-d's providence: Fear not...although you intended me harm, G-d intended it for good..." (Bereshit 50:19-20).

Perhaps tears are a connection between experiencing life's trials and seeing

G-d's hand in it all.

Pass the Kleenex...

Ripple Effect

by Devora Gila Berkowitz

Parshat Vayigash

Don't you love a good cry?

When Yosef cannot restrain himself from this emotional family reunion, he lets it all out.

It's such a great, tearful release that not only does Pharoah's palace hear it, but it also reaches the entire land of Egypt. (Bereshit 45:2)

Emotions are energy. What we feel ripples out beyond ourselves. This is the power of the cry of Yosef, who is the epitome of connection (as represented by yesod of the sefirot).

And if a cry can reach out so powerfully, then so can a laugh...

What emotion will you choose to ripple out today into your home and beyond?

Tears of Victory

by Devora Gila Berkowitz

Parshat Vayeira

Hagar's son, Ishmael is dying of thirst. 

She leaves him at a distance and cries for her loss. (Bereshit 21:15-16) The commentators criticize her for this -- she should have stayed with Ishmael to comfort him.

But G-d hears the cry of the youth and takes care of Ishmael. He promises makes a great nation of him and produces a well of water. (Bereshit 21:17-19)

Are there parts of yourself that you need to cry over? Hold them close. Comfort them. But know that G-d needs you to move on and become great -- He wants to help you be the best that you can possibly be.

Your relationship with G-d is first and foremost based on G-d's belief in you. Based on this belief, He will sustain you and give you what you need in order to grow. Remember -- He first promised to make Ishmael great and only then quenched his thirst so that he could become that great nation.  

So go ahead and cry, and know that these will become your tears of victory.