In the first perek of Sefer Yehoshua, Hashem tells Yehoshua, “Chazak v’emutz,” be strong and courageous (1:6). Malbim says that there is a double loshon because we need courage to start, and courage to see the thing through. When I read this insight in Shabbat: A Day to Create Yourself, by Rabbi Dr. Warren Goldstein, I thought about my own journey. Years ago, I went through a difficult parsha which ended with heartbreak. I had just turned 25. That is the point from which I feel that my journey in shidduchim truly began – it was when I crossed the threshold. Eight years later, it can feel surreal at times that I am still doing this.
So this is where I need to remember to be courageous. I’ve begun, and I need to be resolute, to have courage, and to see the thing through. And be”H, with the support of my compatriots on the road, with the mentorship and support of the sages in my life, with the tools I have been given and that I discover, I will.
And so will you.
Be strong and courageous!
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