By Esther Gross

Hashem will help you ride the meandering waves of life.

Bear in mind, today is the first day of the rest of your life!

Implement small acts of

goodness conscientiously!

Plant seeds of Torah

values passionately!

Hence, how futile it is

to kick up a fuss!

We can’t prevent the bus from breaking down.

The plane is late which can turn our whole schedule around.

You cannot avert a red light.

However, you can decide, whether you’ll halt or flight.

You can’t stop the crystal raindrops falling from the sky;

Then again, an umbrella certainly can keep you cozy and dry!

Let’s imagine, you’re having breakfast, When a child accidently knocks over

the coffee hard and fast!

Woe, your jacket got all splattered up!

You’re just about ready to snap, crackle and pop!

Obviously, you had no control over what just has occurred;

Or your first reaction which seemed so blurred!

However, the ball was in your court; If you chose an unruffled

or impulsive retort!

Let’s say you snap at your child for knocking the cup over… With your fury you just succeeded in washing her over!

Miss her bus, and be totally distressed!

She might break out in a cold sweat;

You manage to get her to school; you’re winding down….

Whilst your child may possibly be displaying a frown…

Domino effect: to make matters worse! You can’t seem to be finding your purse!

Now, you’re really upset!

Why did you have such a tough day?

A) Did the coffee cause it? B) Did a child cause it?

C) Did the school bus cause it? D) Did your dentist cause it?

Between you & me, You did not invite

this catastrophe, However, how you

“chose” to react to this event;

Triggered such a mind boggling descent!

Suppose, you’re having breakfast,

When a child accidently knocks over the coffee hard and fast!

You pause for a cause, and calmly say: “Oops, let’s grab a towel to wipe the mess away,

This is not going to ruin our entire day!”

Your child lends a hand without a sigh… She gets on the bus and waves her goodbye!

Triumphantly you breathe a sigh of reprieve,

For staying the course, you did achieve.

Two different scenarios:

Life is like a Ferris wheel ride, We must take our adversities in stride, Considering our conscience to be our guide; Behaving tactfully while enjoying the ride!

The cleaning lady didn’t show up?

No use pouting; keep your chin up!

Utilize your worrying energy to mop up!

Millions of people suffer from stress, Countless problems and headaches. If you etch into your mind & heart true belief, It will unquestionably ease your

agony and grief.

In conclusion, as we wrap it all up… Realize that a setback is a Jumpstart for rising higher up!

Try not to obsess about the progress; Just be passionate with the process!

May Hashem crown your hard work with success, May you reap abundant joy

and happiness!