Good morning Bitachon of the day 💗
The Chofetz Haim teaches that speaking negatively of a sibling, of a step parent or G-d forbid of a father and a mother, is not only Lashon Hara, it is a violation of the commandment. Honor your father and Mother. There is also a curse applied to children who show parents disrespect. “Cursed is he who degrades his father or mother”
One of the primary reasons Hashem created the family unit was so that it could be a workshop. A place for the Neshamah to develop. The home is where we learn to be less self centered, where we develop a love of Chesed towards others. When the laws of Shmiras Halashon guide the family’s interactions, each Nechama which this “workshop” produces can develop to its full, rich potential.
The true barometer of a person’s behavior is the way he behaves in the privacy of his home.
During my time living in Brooklyn with my father's best friend from Egypt, I spent 9 months witnessing a household where voices were never raised. They communicated calmly, and the siblings supported each other. The immense respect they showed their parents left a lasting impression on me. Growing up in a broken home, I aspired to create a similar loving environment for myself.
The parents instilled in their children a profound Emunah and Bitachon in Hashem, which was evident in the love they shared. Though not flawless, they interacted with kindness, love, and respect, a complete opposite of what I was accustomed to.
Since then, I've prayed to Hashem for guidance in nurturing a similar atmosphere within my own family. If Siblings learn to love and respect each other; when united, they can overcome anything, and Hashem will bless their home.
I have learned that is very challenging, to emulate this behavior within siblings. Reflecting on the teachings of the Chofetz Haim, it's evident that neglecting these commandments is a significant transgression. Despite the numerous familial issues, having trust and faith in Hashem can help navigate through them.
When siblings fight it only brings anger, grudges and further sours the soul, aggravating existing problems.
Sibling efforts to resolve conflicts are essential for fostering a family that respects and flourishes together.
Kindness, respect, and love make life easier. Even if one sibling isn't cooperative, endeavor to be the better person and mend the situation. Conflict only leads to pain and suffering, whereas an open heart fosters mutual respect, leading to a more fulfilling life.
To achieve this, parents need to demonstrate equal and unconditional love towards all their children while also earning both respect and affection. They should convey the love of Hashem, emphasizing that our reliance should solely be upon Him.
May we all learn from the Chofetz Haim it’s never too late. Amen 🙏
Wish you all a wonderful day ❤️