Jewish

Shavuot: The Inclusion Holiday

Are you Jewish? Have you ever thought about bringing your child with special needs to services at a synagogue? For a family that has a child with special needs attending a synagogue is no easy task. Before you even reach the synagogue (or shul as it is commonly known) you are already praying....

• Praying that your child sits still.
• Praying that you don't get too many curious stares.
• Praying that there are no meltdowns.
• Praying that the only seats left are not in the front.
• Praying that your child will understand why you are going to pray.

In many situations it may not be practical to bring your child with you or you may need to stay for a very short time.

The Inclusion Holiday

While it is always important to attend services at a shul there is one holiday where it is important that everyone attends: Men, women and children regardless of physical or cognitive ability. That holiday is called Shavuot. Shavuot is the day on which we celebrate the the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai, 3,324 years ago. When G-d said the 10 Commandments on Mt. Sini everyone was there: Men, women and children, even the tiniest of babies were present. If one member of the Jewish Nation would not have been present at Sinai the Torah would not have been given.

We All Heard the Ten Commandments

Even though the future generations of the Jewish nations were not yet alive, their souls were also present at the giving of the Torah. That means us, our parents, grandparents and great-grandparents before them. The souls of all Jews, from all times, came together to hear the Ten Commandments from G‑d Himself.

Why Your Child is Needed

Every year on the holiday of Shavuot we hear the Ten Commandments and reaffirm the covenant with G‑d and His Torah. Since we all stood at Mount Sinai, we must all reaffirm our commitment. Babies, young children, the elderly, all that are able should attend. So, regardless of your observance level, ability level, age and understanding, you are not only wanted but you are needed; just like every Jewish person was needed 3,324 years ago. Now let me ask you.... Why should your child with special needs be left out? Even if you and/or your child with special needs do not attend a synagogue during the year it is important that everyone be included and come to shul on the holiday of Shavuot when the 10 commandments are read. This year, on Wednesday, June 4, 2014, go to your local synagogue to hear the Ten Commandments and reaffirm the covenant with G‑d and His Torah.