“RABBI’S MUSINGS (& AMUSINGS)”
Erev Shabbos Kodesh parshas Acharei Emor
14 Iyar 5780/May 8, 2020
Pesach Sheni
Avos Perek 4 – 29th day of the
Omer
ZOOMTASTIC
Like
many educational institutions, since the Pandemic began, our Yeshiva, Heichal
HaTorah, has been having shiurim and classes on Zoom. While it unquestionably
has its challenges and deficiencies, there are two things I love about teaching
on Zoom: the mute and the commute. The commute from the kitchen to my
downstairs office is economically friendly and saves a lot on gas. In addition,
in the classroom, I periodically have to contend with a student who interrupts
the shiur, or a brief conversation may ensue between a couple of students
despite my protestations. These days
such challenges no longer exist. As the host of my class conferences, with one
click of a button I can mute all, and peacefully continue giving my shiur.
Sometimes after muting everyone I can see a student who is still talking
animatedly. But now it no longer disturbs the class, and I can gleefully
proceed.
Yet the
undeniable truth is that there is a great deal missing. While I see my students
every day, am able to interact with them on some level, and continue to learn
together despite the erratic situation that has gripped the world, it is just
not the same.
Like
most homes, our home has been transformed into a makeshift school with
classrooms all over the house, and at different times.
Remember
how we complained about Purim day when each of our children’s teachers gives a
different time to come visit and each teacher lives in a different part of
town? Well, now we have a taste of that every day within our own home!
Most of
my children’s classes are held on conference calls that they call in and listen
to. That’s an even greater challenge than being on Zoom because teachers and
students cannot see each other. It’s a stress to remember all the times and
call in numbers for each child. Although it’s unquestionably draining on all
parties, it’s also a testament to the devotion of our yeshivos, rabbeim and
teachers in making the best out of a highly challenging situation.
In fact,
our overall general response to the pandemic has demonstrated collective
resilience and adaptability.
No one
was excited about the restrictions imposed upon us, of the massive loss of
income so many have suffered, or about the terrible anxiety of the unknown
future, and surely no one is happy about the many victims of the virus. But we
had no choice but to accept the reality. It doesn’t matter how big one’s bank
account is or what connections he has, like it or not we were, and are, in this
together. It’s been noted that for many millennials this is the first time they
have been in a challenging situation that their parents could not protect them
from or bail them out of.
However,
it is clear to everyone, that despite our incredible resilience and dedication
to education, there is no substitution for real human interaction. Five hours
of zoom meetings don’t equal one hug. Just ask any grandparent who hasn’t
embraced their grandchildren in over two months.
There is
no replacement for a gentle hand on the shoulder or pat on the back. If that’s
true with adults, how much more so with children and adolescents who
desperately need constant warmth, positivity and encouragement.
Hashem
created us as social beings to be there for each other, and that is our most
natural interconnection.
We have
been blessed with incredible technology that allows us to vividly stay in touch
with people even on the other side of the world. But make no mistake about it -
the brilliance of technology is no match for human touch, a handshake, or a
face to face smile. The fact that so many people had to sit shiva for a loved
one physically alone, just compounded the grief and anguish.
Sometimes
our ability to connect with the other side of the world causes us to forget how
to connect with the people closest to us.
So,
despite my gratitude for the the ability to see and interact with my students
each day via Zoom, I would actually rather have a commute and an unmuted class
that I can personally interact with, despite the inconveniences.
I hope
I’ll have that opportunity soon.
Shabbat
Shalom & Good Shabbos,
R’ Dani and Chani Staum