In this week's parsha we read about the famous story of Noach and the Ark he was commanded to build in order to save himself and his family from the flood that Hashem brought upon the world. The Parsha begins by telling us that "Noach was a righteous man in his generation". Our Sages dispute whether this verse is coming to praise his righteousness or if it is coming to downplay his righteousness, but either way Noach was outstanding in his righteousness compared to the people in his generation. It is hard to fathom how Noach had the strength to stand-up and reject the behaviour that everyone was engaged in at that time.

In many instances we find ourselves faced with similar challenges. It may be within our family, our circle of friends, colleagues at work or our community, that are engaged in behaviour which is simply not appropriate or ethical. We live in a time where people's moral compass has been misguided and what was wrong is now right and what was right is now wrong. It is hard to navigate our society with the proper perspective on what is true and right. It is even harder when we are faced with people around us who are convinced that wrong is right. We have an obligation though to at least continue acting appropriately even though others are not. Whether we need to be outspoken about our views and beliefs obviously depends on each situation but we can't let compromise our true beliefs and the morals of the Torah for the ever-changing sentiment that exists in our society.

We can draw on the strength of Noach who stood up to the entire world and continue in the ways of truth.

Shabbat Shalom,

May all of our sick brothers and sisters have a speedy recovery!

Heath