Reply To: Confusing halacha, minhag, chumra and shtus*

Years prior, a rebbetzin told me that after candle lighting I can say a personal prayer for myself and family and thanks to Hashem.

She said that this moment when my eyes were closed after saying the bracha were very dear to Hashem, so I could bear my heart out in whispers afterward for myself and others. So that’s what I did.

A lot happened in my life since those Shabbats with that rebbetzin and her family, may Hashem always bless thme generously.

I moved a few times and now I was living in a new place. An ocean and more away. Removed from the world that I once knew and family. So this was my way to connect and give back despite being a world away. Despite having very little material to give. At least I could offer “brachot” or I guess the word here is “bakashot.”

Thank you