It's always tough when we hear about innocent children dying. A powerful tornado ripped through Oklahoma this week, claiming the lives of 24 people, including 9 schoolchildren. 200mph winds hit two elementarys schools with just a few seconds warning! Over a drink this week, someone asked me:'Why? Why would G-d allow an innocent child to die?!'
Whilst there really is no good enough answer for such tragedy, perhaps we can learn a moving perspective from one of the brilliant women of the Talmud- Beruriah.
One Shabbat 1900 years ago, the two sons of Beruriah and Rabbi Meir suddenly died. The wise woman carried them up to the attic and lay them in their beds. When Rabbi Meir inquired about the boys, she avoided the question until after Shabbat. After the holy day was concluded, she asked him for his advice:
“A long time ago someone entrusted a precious stone to me for safekeeping. I have kept and cherished that stone carefully. Now the owner has come back. Should I return that precious stone to him?”
"Of course", said Rabbi Meir, "What kind of question is that?!"
"Well, should I be angry that he is asking for his precious stone back?", she asked.
"You should just appreciate the kindness he extended to you. Thank him for the time you had with the loan and don't be ungrateful now that he wants it returned."
When Rabbi Meir answered in the affirmative, she led him to the bedroom. As he saw the two boys, lifeless on the bed, he realized the wisdom and sensitivity of his wife. With her questions, she had prepared for a shock that he surely would be unable to handle.
As we reflect on tragedies involving kids, few words can offer comfort. Growing up the son of a Rabbi in South Africa and having thus been exposed to many families in need, I have seen few events more tragic than the bereavement of a child.
Beruriah helps us absorb the pain. Instead of viewing the child as forever gone and merely a memory, a picture on the wall, She helps us realize that the child is not just 'dead' but 'home'!
The lender was kind enough to loan us the precious child for a few years, but the time has come for the precious soul to come home, back to G-d where it comes from.
If your kids are near you, hug them extra tight today. If they're not, call them, today. Remember that you only have this loan for a certain time. Take full advantage of every single moment!