Look how far you’ve come. Look at these children!

All year I strive to notice what I’m lacking and where I should be headed. Every night I tell myself — in my most encouraging voice — Tomorrow! Tomorrow I’ll be calmer, more in control, more diligent.

But Purim hands me a different set of binoculars. Instead of seeing tomorrow and next week, I see yesterday and the last week and last year. Look, says Purim with admiration in its voice.

Look how far you’ve come. Look at these children! Who comforted them when they were sick or miserable? Who taught them to wash negel vasser in the morning and say Krias Shema at bedtime? Who helped them believe in themselves and become successful, confident human beings?

Finding the Joy in Purim

(Originally featured in Family First, Issue 783)