Generation to Generation: Teaching Our Children the Joy of Giving to Others

We live in the so-called “selfie generation,” where our focus is often on ourselves — how we look, how many “likes” we get on social media, what we have, and what we do. The irony is that focusing on ourselves does not make us happier; rather it robs us of our joy. As the Bible teaches, what truly brings joy is giving to others. In the Jewish faith, charity is not seen as simply a good deed, but rather as a sacred obligation. It is practiced throughout the year as part of the Sabbath and Jewish holidays observances. Most Jewish homes, synagogues, schools, and even businesses have at least one special receptacle for giving charity. The ultimate goal, says Yael, is for her children to learn to give consistently and generously. Listen today to learn how these principles can help your children experience the joy of giving.