Reply To: Going off the Derech

aries2756-he meant that he can’t be religious by just following in my footsteps. Maybe I was naive thinking that bc we have a loving relationship with the kids, and shalom bayis, that all would be okay. You are right about the RY picking and choosing which mitsvos to follow, and giving the kids the subtle message that they can do the same. I am remembering a few incidents where my husband and I didn’t like what the RY did, and we felt it was a terrible message for the kids. But who knew it could have such serious repercussions? What could I possibly do to repair that type of damage? Do you think it would help if we spoke to the RY about it, and then ask him to speak to my son (about how wrong he was!!)?

My son came home now, and he is as happy as can be! The truth is, I couldn’t even look at him, he hurt me so much. None of my previous coping skills are working. I tried reading Tehillim, which I do every day, but I just couldn’t concentrate. Maybe one day my son will find himself, and heal. But he ripped out a piece of my heart, and it can never be replaced