To Kvetch Or Not To Kvetch

BARUCH HASHEM!!! That says it all. If we only look at the majesty of creation, I mean really look, how can we help but be awed. From the tiny microscopic to the universe itself, everything fits, has its place, works together. What a beautiful system.

As human beings, and especially as Jews, we have a responsibility of Tikun Olam (making the world a better place). When we fit into our place as we were meant to we cannot help but say, "Baruch HaShem!" Why then, as human beings, are we so good at moaning, groaning, complaining ... in short, kvetching.

In the last years my mother was living she learned to see HaShem in all things, even the lowliest of human beings. I am proud to say that one year she received the Volunteer of the Year Award for all British Columbia. However, there was a time she was an accomplished kvetcher. She was so accomplished that, when going to visit her, I would start feeling guilty about the time the pilot announced, "Ladies and gentlemen, we have just begun our descent and will be landing in approximately 20 minutes." By the time I arrived at her house I was willing to confess to anything and even sign a statement that the world was indeed falling apart. She would then say something like, "You really didn't have to come to visit and I don't want to trouble you to fix my lamp. I am very happy being alone and sitting in the dark." May HaShem bless her.

Taking example of the new joy my mother had in her last few years, I try to see the hand of HaSham in everything while endeavoring to surround myself in a "No Kvetching Zone." I'm not entirely sucessful yet but I am happy and full of joy most of the time when I'm in the "zone."

You know those catalogues that aren't wanted but stuff your mail box anyway? While looking through one the other day I found a coffee cup that I simply must send for. It has the greatest thing written on it, "No Kvetching."

This afternoon, as I came from Shul, I saw a woman standing by the side of the street with a sign that said, "Peace." She had a big smile and was waving to all who went past her. That brought a big smile to me and the exclamation of, "Baruch HaShem." She was doing her bit for Tikun Olam. Alaska gets so cold sometimes that I almost freeze my.... well I almost freeze my toes off. It's dark, snowy, cold, and winter last for eight months. Baruch HaShem ... I opened my eyes this morning and my soul was in my body. Even though my body hurts I must say, Baruch HaShem ... my heart is beating, muscles working, and brain functioning (although depending on who you ask that might be debatable). As we each say, "Baruch HaShem," we each begin to participate in Tikum Olam.

So ... let's end where we began ... BARUCH HASHEM!!!