We must manage our expectations by trying to keep them as close to reality as possible
When my children were in elementary school, Chol Hamoed trips always presented a challenge to me as a parent. And whenever Yom Tov approached, I dreaded my children’s semi-annual question, “Where are we going on Chol Hamoed?”
Generally, to stall for time and get myself off the hook, I gave my standard default answer. “I’ll have to discuss that with Mommy.”
One year, after seeing an amusement park advertisement that announced, “All proceeds going to tzedakah,” my wife and I came up with the unique and creative Chol Hamoed plan to spend a day at that park. When the day arrived, our children were brimming with excitement and glee.
The amusement park was unexpectedly hot and overcrowded. Apparently, we were not the only ones who had this unique and creative Chol Hamoed plan. Nevertheless, we took the long waiting lines in stride and persevered for about five hours. When our supply of drinks and patience was depleted, my wife and I agreed it was time to head home. And that was when the impassioned protests burst forth.
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