I’m reading a book called “Raising a Child with Soul” by Slovie Jungreis-Wolff, daughter of the renowned teacher Rebbetzin Esther Jungreis. For years, Rebbetzin Jungreis has taught a weekly parsha class at the Hineni Heritage Center on West End Avenue in New York City, right around the corner from my parents’ apartment. My mother was a devoted student of the Rebbetzin’s and shared a special bond with her; she ended up turning a bunch of people on to the Rebbetzin’s classes and her amazing books, myself included. This book was a gift to me from my mother’s friend Elizabeth in honor of L.B.’s imminent arrival and Yonah’s already rockin’ soul. Like her mother, Slovie Jungreis-Wolff is a passionate, deeply spiritual writer with a very clear and practical message: If you want your kids to grow up to be good people, you must be the example for them to follow. When not scared out of my wits, I’ve been inspired to really take a look at myself and see what kind of person is raising my son and baby-to-be.

One section of the book is all about the C-word: Communication. Most people will agree it’s important, but how much so is almost impossible to quantify. Slovie writes about David HaMelech (King David), who, in his infinite wisdom knew that communication was THE way to build bridges between generations. During his life he composed Tehillim (Psalms), which are a touchstone for people of all faiths even today. Lesser known is the letter he wrote his son, Solomon, before his death. Solomon was only twelve when he lost his father, but he was destined to take on a kingship that was surrounded with conflict and difficulty. To help him shoulder the burden, David left him with these words (from I Kings 2:2; interpreted by the Me’am Loez):

“Don’t mourn for me and my years. It is our nature as human beings to eventually die. Death in itself is not tragic, but it is a part of life. I completed my task in life. Now it is time for my soul to return to Gd. This is how Gd created us. But if it is your own loss you grieve, accept my words of advice and encouragement. You will not remain in the world alone. Gd will always be there for you. Everything I gave you came from Gd and so now just turn to Him directly and He will never forsake you. Take the strength that Gd has given you and use it properly. Understand that before you rule over others you must rule over yourself”.

I truly believe that we are sent the messages we need exactly when we need them. In this case, as I read these words, I felt like my mother was talking to me. It was a balm for my heart. For the first time in months, there was peace, acceptance and real hope.

Thank You, Gd.