"I find it offensive and untrue to suggest that the self-sacrifice and growth of baalei teshuvah is an escape from suffering"
I would like to bring forth another side to the Know This article by a woman who wrote that she had two siblings who were off the derech. The writer’s circumstances are so like my own, it’s uncanny — and yet my experience is worlds apart.
My baal teshuvah parents are awesome. My three siblings who were and are struggling spiritually fully agree on this. I find it offensive and untrue to suggest that the self-sacrifice and growth of baalei teshuvah is an escape from suffering, and to blame children’s decisions on their parents’ journey is unfair. And never would I label my siblings or any of their friends “off the derech.” They are extremely troubled teens trying to find themselves and their way in life.
My parents’ home is a fully functional, loving place where every one of us is welcome no matter what. There is no “toxic atmosphere,” and we all love spending time together. If I choose not to bring my children over when my siblings’ friends are hanging out there, that is my choice, and my family respects that.
Finally, I would like to say that while these teens have acted out of pain, there is no need for blame. It is a pure combination of Hashem’s Master Plan and their bechirah.
Create a free account to keep reading.
