With Belief and Trust

“…What is this that Hashem has done to us?” (Bereishis 42:28).

T

he above words have great meaning given the matzav today.  We must contemplate and accept that we don’t know, nor can we begin to understand Hashem’s ways. What we do know is that everything Hashem does is for the good. How is it good? That we cannot comprehend.

What’s certain is that the time has come to awaken ourselves from our slumber and repent. Each of us must work on ourselves. Regarding positive traits, we must reflect on our community as a whole, but when it comes to imperfections, we must look at ourselves — what can I improve upon, not, how does my neighbor need improvement? (Rav Avigdor Nebenzahl).

This morning, I missed a terrorist attack by 90 seconds. I had just made a left turn onto a four-lane highway when I abruptly noticed the traffic ahead of me wasn’t moving.

Oh no, I thought, frustrated. Now I’m going to be late for work.

Suddenly I froze. The next few seconds seemed suspended in a black vacuum. I don’t know if I heard screaming. Did I hear the gunshots?

But I knew I was in danger. And when the bus in front of me made a sudden U-turn, I shifted into reflex mode and followed him.