Another action packed week of Yachad MBNJ. We really have been able to settle into our jobs now that we are used to them after the first week. One of our most important jobs is preparing and serving lunch, alongside the wonderful Five-Star Caterers. We really enjoying preparing the food for the campers as well as serving them.

One of the highlights of the week was our trip as a group to EJ’s Place in Teaneck, where we were able to bond as a group outside of camp while also eating some great food. It was great fun running into some old friends and family that also happened to be there. We finished our week by making chocolate covered popcorn and Shabbos cards that we delivered to our friends in camp who have helped us out this week.

There are several morals that can be learned from this week’s parsha. It starts off with the commandment of purifying people who are contaminated by using the ashes from the sacrificed red cow. This is a chok- to do a mitzvah without knowing the reason, just do it because you are told. A thought as to why this rule may be is to atone for the sin of the golden calf.

Second, at Miriam’s death the well that supported the nation vanished. This is a special merit of Miriam, Israel took the well for granted, this was to show them to be more appreciative.

Third, Moshe got punished for hitting a rock providing water out of anger when God instructed him differently to bring water. This teaches us to not disobey God/our boss/ our parents when we get angry.

Lastly, when the Jews had the war with Sichon and won it teaches the Jews that they are mighty when they do good and listen to God. They can defeat mighty people when they believe in themselves (not like during the sin of the spies).

Written by: Michael Silverman