Hardcore Torah-true Jews will never forsake the millions and millions of Jews who came before. From the time of receiving the Torah at Mount Sinai through such time that we will have proven ourselves worthy of the honor of being the chosen nation, we remain steadfastly Am Israel.

We were caught unprepared due to the overconfidence of the IDF, and cycles of broken leadership – egocentric, ineffective communication, divisiveness, and out of touch with the average Israeli. How can we remedy the situation and restore our merits in the eyes of HaShem?

This week’s parasha begins with the gift and challenge of free-will that distinguishes us from all other species in HaShem’s creation – giving us the freedom to make choices that can lead to blessings or curses.

The Writing on the Wall – Kohelet (Ecclesiastes) 3:16: In the place of judgment (courts) wickedness (corrupt judges); in the place of justice, wickedness (personal interest).

If and when it becomes apparent that the “time has come” it could be too late to attend to your personal interests. You will want to sell your home, but so too will many other Jews and the price you get will not cover the cost of 2 rooms in Yerushalayim.

Remembrance of the Shoah, its atrocities and implication are never far from the Jewish national psyche. The Shoah was level 9.5 on the Jewish Richter scale. And like major earthquakes which are followed by unpleasant aftershocks, so too are all the anti-Jewish actions of the last 80 years aftershocks caused by the Shoah.

Why will this coming Seder night be different than most other seder nights?

When the time for retribution for the evils perpetrated on His nation Yisrael arrives, HaShem will wait for no man. This is the century of God’s measure for measure. Seek refuge in the correct place.

In the manner that is accepted by Kings, take into consideration that no one enters the holy land, nor leaves even temporarily on a voluntary basis. One is invited to ascend to it or to be expelled from it by name, which is called out in the Shamayim.

Tensions in various areas of the world – each alone and exponentially greater together – are increasing. A major concern for the US is insufficient military manpower to meet its challenges. A draft and limits on the dollar flow out of the country could make aliyah impossible for American Jews. When a mitzvah presents itself, do not postpone its fulfillment.

Tikun Olam: to repair, correct the defects, deficiencies, and deviations that the first human beings brought upon us. To achieve Tikun Olam we must right the evils that exist in society, restore mankind to the holy principles of right and wrong, and cling to the ways of HaShem. Let’s begin with the American Indians.

I want to share with you episodes in the lives of two judges – Devorah and Shimshon – and good advice that appears in many Jewish sources: “Let your ears hear what your mouth is saying”. Consider the implications of your words.