Highway 37 has been underwater for the greater part of the last few weeks. Drivers inconvenienced, homes flooded, kids ready for spring. One group that is thrilled with all the rain is the trees, flowers and produce.
Tomorrow is Tu B'Shvat (the 15th day of the Hebrew Month Shvat) - which in Jewish culture is the birthday of the Trees. We celebrate the life-giving nature of fruits we eat and reflect on the beautiful world that we are blessed to live in.
There's a custom to eat from the 7 fruit that the Land of Israel is blessed with. We'll be doing that tonight in the company of 30 Israeli-Petalumans!
But why so much emphasis on trees? Can we perhaps learn something from these majestic botanical beauties?
Let's dive beneath the surface - literally. Under the ground, a complex network of roots works together to keep the tree upright. The roots, while perhaps not the prettiest part of the tree, are the most important. A tree with luscious fruits, a thick canopy of green leaves, but has weak roots, will unfortunately not last long. A storm will come along and shake its reality, threatening its very existence. Conversely, a solid foundation will ensure longevity, even in the face of gale force winds, and provided with the proper nutrients and care, will ultimately yield bountiful results.
Man is compared to a tree in the Torah. When we set solid foundations for our children and for ourselves, we can be sure of proper growth and protection against any negative elements. While Mitzvahs are like the branches and fruit, faith is what anchors us.
Tonight, let's reflect and strengthen our foundations.
Good Shabbos!
Rabbi Dovid Bush
ב"ה