Dear Reader

Hardships and adversity are simply part of life. At some point, in some way, each of us will encounter challenges that test us—emotionally, spiritually, or practically.

Even our children face adversity, though in smaller, everyday moments. They want ice cream, but it’s time for dinner. They want to stay with Mommy, but she has to go to work. They want a toy, but we say no. These may seem like small things to us, but to a child, they’re big. And each one is a lesson in resilience. Every time they navigate disappointment or delay, they grow a little stronger, a little wiser, and a little more mature.

One of the most powerful ways to move through adversity is by stepping back and seeing the bigger picture—believing that there is purpose in the challenge, even if we can’t understand it right now. As parents, we often can see that bigger picture for our kids: that healthy meals build strong bodies, that independence builds confidence, and that learning patience lays the foundation for emotional maturity.

They may not see it yet—but we do. We are their leaders. And until they are ready to stand on their own in the world, we are the ones who help shape their perspective, offering them the structure, guidance, and love they need to grow into who they’re meant to be.

And the same perspective applies to us, too. Whatever challenge we may be facing—whether personal, relational, or spiritual—there is always a bigger picture at play. There is always a deeper reason, even if it’s not immediately visible. That kind of trust, that kind of faith, can be profoundly grounding.

In this week’s podcast episode, I had the honor of speaking with Fraida Shusterman, a mother of 11 whose story embodies this message with remarkable grace. After raising 10 children and thinking she was done, Fraida was blessed with one more child—her youngest, who was later diagnosed with Rett syndrome. This rare and severe neurological condition leaves her nonverbal, physically limited, and in need of full-time care for life.

Fraida’s story is a moving example of how faith, perspective, and daily spiritual practice can help a person carry even the heaviest of loads. Through her deep connection to God, her grounding in Jewish tradition, and her commitment to showing up with gratitude, she’s found meaning and peace in circumstances that would overwhelm many.

Knowing Fraida—and learning more about my own Jewish faith and tradition—has shown me the power of passing on a strong spiritual foundation to our children. It’s a gift. A compass they can always turn to. A structure they can lean on when life gets hard.

How does faith look in your home?​
​What traditions do you keep—and why?​
​What role do you want spirituality to play in your family’s life?

I’d love to hear your thoughts.

With warmth and gratitude,
Efrat

🎧 Listen to the episode: “Parenting from a Jewish Perspective — with Fraida Shusterman”