How to avoid uncomfortable situations:

I met sometime today who asked me, “By the way, how is your mother doing? I haven’t heard from her for a while. How is she feeling?”

I hesitated and then said, “She’s actually doing quite well, she is resting comfortably.”

“I’m so glad to hear that. Is she at home?”

“No, actually in Israel.”

“ That’s so nice, where is she staying?”

“She’s staying put for now. She’s actually resting on Har Menuchos. My mother died over five years ago.”

Without missing a beat the person said, “Well that would explain why I haven’t heard from her in a while.”

I just looked at the person and said, “Yes, you are right that explains why she hasn’t been in contact with you.”

The women smiled, satisfied with the solution to her quandary and we continued the conversation without the hint of discomfort.

That’s how life (and death) are!

You don’t miss a beat and go one with life!

“If not now, then when?”- Hillel

Ron Yitzchok Eisenman

Rabbi, Congregation Ahavas Israel

Passaic, NJ