There are some things that bring great joy to the Jewish soul. Perhaps the greatest joy is the ability to skip Tachanun. Other things bring levels of angst to the Jewish soul. A three day Yom Tov HAS to be right up there on the list. Luckily, we have both this week.
In the first sense, we are elated that we are sort of "Getting away" with something. Davening has a set mode and we are allowed to skip designated portions. In the second sense, Yom Tov is always challenging. The meals, the preparation, all the Shul time etc. Three consecutive days only compounds the feeling.
So what can we do to reverse the feelings in both cases? Is it possible to feel bad about missing Tachanun? Is it possible to look forward to a three day Chag? My answer is yes. It is absolutely possible. All you have to do is concentrate and focus a little and you will get there.
Take an English translation of Tachanun and read it. I mean actually read it. When you see the beautiful liturgical words, you will be uplifted. Who wouldn't want to say this? If you think of three days without work, phones, tv, together with three days of spending time with your family and loved ones, learning Torah and Davening - who wouldn't want this?
So as we head in to this Chag, I will miss Tachanun and I will eagerly anticipate Chag Hashavuot. I hope you do as well.
Shabbat Shalom and Chag Sameach
