Do you have an ometz lev?
The story of Hanukah is always a fascinating tale for 5 and 6-year-olds. It contains archetypal characters: a mean ruler, heroes, a battle (involving elephants no less), and a surprise ending. But at its core, it's about courage. It's about having the strength to stand up for yourself and others, just as the Maccabees stood up to King Antiochus. Sometimes it's hard to be courageous. You might be very scared or feel as if your voice doesn't matter. But deep inside each one of us is an ometz lev . These Hebrew words mean "heart-strength," a brave heart. It was a surprise to our kids to discover that each one of them has an ometz lev . We asked, "Is courage something you're born with, or is it something you learn how to do?" The kids decided it was something you learn. No one's courage is the same. But, you can practice having courage. What is courage ? How can you practice having courage ? One way is to follow these ...
