“Reign it In”! (Vayechi)

Reuben, you are my first-born, my might and the first fruit of my vigor, exceeding in rank and exceeding in honor…unstable as water….you brought disgrace… (Genesis 49:3-4).

Rueben made a mistake. He was emotional, acted impulsively and it cost him. Mistakes are forgivable, but their consequences remain. In an online world mistakes can be especially costly. A poorly considered Instagram/Facebook post does not disappear and it may be discovered years later by a potential employer or spouse. An inappropriate text to a “trusted friend” can be shared with thousands at the click of a button.

Now, more than ever, we must teach our children discretion, the potential repercussions demand it.