The day after Tisha B'Av, the day of the destruction of the Temple. It's fascinating to see how some of our sages make a parallel between the Temple - and our home.
Since the destruction of the Temple, the Divine Presence is found in synagogues (called "mikdash me'at," a small sanctuary), in yeshivas and Torah centers, and also - in the homes of the people of Israel. Yes, in our homes, between the kitchen and living room.
And here, the day after the destruction of the Temple - begins the most challenging month for the private temple: the month of August, the peak of summer vacation.
Our sages explain that of all places, the home is the place where we are truly built: in the relationships between children and parents, and between the parents themselves.
In Judaism there is a name for this: "avodat hamidot" - character development. Building personality. Not in outward instagram stories, with likes from people you don't know, but in connection with the people closest to you.
In every action done at home, even in small tasks, one can remember that this is the place where God put us, that this is currently our greatest mission.
May we merit with God's help to see blessing in the upcoming month, in building our private temple.
