Community Magazine October 2009

18 Community magazine the housekeeper. However, the Mishna instructs, a husband is not permitted to absolve his wife entirely of responsibility. Regardless of how much help the family can afford, it is imperative that the wife retain some obligations. The reason, the Mishna explains, is that “ batala mevia lideh shiamum – idleness leads to boredom.” When a person has nothing to do, a kind of mental instability sets in. People have an innate desire – and need – to be occupied. When they have nothing to do, they will, by instinct, find something to fill the time vacuum. And not always is that something a constructive activity. As the Mishna concludes, “ Veshiamum mevi’a lideh zima – boredom leads to immorality.” When people feel the instinctive need to fill the time vacuum, they will often resort to mischief and destructive behavior. Noah’s inventions presented the people of his time with vast new opportunities, but also with a great challenge. What would they do with all their free time? How would they fill the time vacuum created by the generation’s technological advancements? The decision was theirs. They could have used the extra time for spirituality, prayer, study, and helping one another and make the world better. Unfortunately, they chose the opposite course. The people of Noah’s generation used their free time for crime and wanton indulgence. Previously, people had no time for petty competition with their peers. After a grueling day of labor, a man was thrilled just to have a roof and a bed so he could rest. But as the schedule eased and grew less intense, people had the time and peace of mind to look around, to notice what their neighbors were doing. Jealousy naturally followed, which in turn gave rise to theft, and ultimately to murder. Free time was also filled by amusement and parties, resulting in intoxication and promiscuity. Gradually, the great blessing of time-saving technology became the world’s greatest curse, and led to the deluge that overran and destroyed the earth. From Noah’s Age to the Modern Age A strikingly similar pattern to the one described has emerged over the last century or so here in the United States. In the early 1900’s, many people worked grueling 14-hour workdays, six – or even seven – days a week, under harsh conditions. Sweatshops employed workers for meager wages and required them to work long hours, and long weeks, without vacations. Given the low salaries, it was common for children to be sent to work to help the family meet its budget. So even from a very young age, people’s days were jam-packed, leaving little time for mischief. Gradually, the situation changed. Labor laws were enacted and automation was introduced. Eventually, the typical workweek was cut down to five days, and the workday to eight hours, which included a lunch break. Workers were allowed sick leave and vacation time became standard at most companies. As a result, people across the socioeconomic spectrum found themselves with plenty of free time in the evenings, on weekends, and during vacations. Dedicated in memory of Mr. Irving Semah     10% Discount * *With Coupon Only. Off your first purchase only. Minimum of $1,000 Purchase. Can’t be combined with any other discount offer. Doesn’t apply to internet sales. */**Restrictions may apply. ATrue Expression of Beauty. TILES | FIXTURES | FAUCETS | DECORATIVE HARDWARE | ACCESSORIES | MOLDINGS AND MORE 728 Kings Highway, Brooklyn, NY 11223 | (718) 513-3700 | info@bhhomeexpressions.com s"xc Designers On Staff We Will Beat Any Price Guaranteed **