07 Apr Pesach and Oppression; Egypt In Our Lives Today

Pesach and Oppression; Egypt In Our Lives

Oppression comes in many, often unnoticed forms. We have unfortunately become desensitized about what we say or do to others. We may cause them to feel judged, diminished, discounted or in plain terms…‘less than’. This has become the plague of derogatory treatment of others times.  These issues often fall into the category of ‘Loshen Hora- derogatory speech’. I more recent years we can add social media (Facebook) to the list of forums for loshen hora.

• It’s not appropriate to stand by when someone is being oppressed (or bullied).
  All Jewish souls are connected. When you stand up for others, you in fact stand for yourself, others and the entire Jewish Nation.Perkei Avot (Ethics of our Fathers)1-14. If I am not for myself, who is for me? And if I am only for myself, what am I? And if not now, when?

•    It’s not appropriate to make someone feel bad, such as by comparing them to others such as in matters of success, or observance
•      It’s not appropriate to try to direct someone who has already committed to program of change. That is to say, where a person is on a path of return (teshuvah) to wellness, it is forbidden to interfere.  Interfering with the path of wellness can cause a person to veer from their path. The criticism may cause them to become overwhelmed or discouraged and give up.  In some cases the damage done could lead to tragic consequences. People in recovery from substance abuse and other emotionally sensitive issues, are most vulnerable to negative consequences as a result of being dealt with in an inappropriate way.

By becoming sensitive and positive to others, you can avoid ‘tearing them down’ and making them feel badly about themselves. It is important to look at relationships as an opportunity to nurture them through kindness of words and actions. Otherwise, we are no better than the Egyptians were in causing oppression amongst ourselves.

The Sages of Past and Recent all agree that these issues of ‘oppression’ keep us from completely acquiring the Land of Israel. These issues are referred to as ‘Baseless Hatred’. They only exist as a result of self will and ego. In this regard, we are our worst enemy.

The remedy is simple;

• Be nice. Be kind. Be considerate.
• Don’t speak badly of others…speak well of others.
• Stand up for others who are being treated unkindly.
• Don’t be judgmental.  Be humble, selfless. To make good relations focus on the needs of others.
• Learn to how to ask meaningful, non-confrontational questions.

Please, use these suggestions to help bring about harmony.

Chag Somayach

Leib Getzel (Lawrence) Lax
Addicitons and Counselling (Hnrs)
www.LawrenceLax.com