Pesach – Let Your Words Set You Free

As I drifted to sleep after a satisfying peaceful Pesach meal with my family, images danced through my mind. I saw of the names of my Facebook friends connecting together by the letters they shared in common, building a chain of togetherness. I automatically understood the meaning, as my subconscious thoughts filtered to the forefront of my mind.

I was taught that names are divinely inspired and indicative of aspects of the essence of ones being. Each of my friends were being linked by common letters representing their shared personality traits. This connection kept us united despite the the varying different letters that we did not share.

I envisioned a Seder with those friends at my table. The debates would be loud and heated, but glorious nonetheless. The plethora of different opinions would add much richness and color. It would be the four sons united, learning and growing as can only be done in the togetherness of diversity. This vision brought me great joy. It symbolized the freedom that we celebrate on Pesach.

The true act that symbolizes the freedom of an individual is speech. That is why the commemoration of the Jews going from avdut to cherut is done by way of the Hagadah –  speech. As slaves we were not permitted to speak freely. Our speech was held in captivity until we finally cried out. This was the first stage in the redemptive process which led G-d to acknowledge our cries.  What we gain by freedom is the ability express ourselves and reveal our essence. What makes each person unique is his thoughts, which can only be revealed by his words thereby freeing his latent self.

This freedom of expression is why I love blogging and Facebook so much. It has redemptive powers. It takes my thoughts and feelings that are bottled up and frees them,which in turn frees me. It doesn’t stop there. I then have discussions and debates which enable me to grow by sharing and learning with others.

With this freedom comes responsibility as to how we choose to use our words. Will we squander it on idle chit chat, gossip, sarcasm and negativity, which are all destructive, or will we choose to build? Positive words infuse people with hope, joy and potential. Let us use our freedom to build a bright future. One filled with kindness and respect for our fellow. This will lay the foundation that is strong enough to support the third and everlasting home of glory. I hope and pray that my words resonate in the hearts and minds of all and that we come together in a way that will ensure the success of our future.

Chag Sameach.