I said I was grateful for the blessing of beautiful hair that G-d gave me. And yes, logically, it made no sense. But I went on to tell her that “many things don’t make sense” but we nevertheless do them. As Jews, our legacy comes from Sinai and in the depths of our souls we can hear G-d’s voice, provided we have the courage and desire to hear it.
What I learned from our ensuing conversation was that my preconceptions of my mother’s feelings and thoughts had been unfair. We just had to speak to one another with kindness and patience. More significantly, my fear that my mother wouldn’t approve of my covered hair was based on my own fears and biases.
When I visited my mother on a Shabbos not long after that, I proudly told her, “I did it, Mom – I’m covering my hair all day and every day.” She smiled. I admitted it was hard, and that at times it still felt awkward and I knew I looked so much better when I took my tichel off. She reassured me and said, “You look lovely, and if this is what you want to do, don’t allow others to shake your confidence.”
Today I understand that covering my hair can be like placing a beautiful royal crown around my head. It’s just a matter of seeing the Torah as G-d’s Word.
My husband and I thank you for spreading Torah in such a refined, dignified and strong way. We find your Torah classes enriching and rewarding. We listen to your live webcast every Thursday night and thank you for the continuous inspiration you provide.
May Hashem bless you always.
