"When the Month of Adar begins simcha should be increased."

This is what our Talmudic Sages tell us in regard to the month we begin this week. In his commentary Rashi explains that the counsel is based on the fact that in the months of Adar and Nissan we enjoyed great miracles. The miracles to which he refers are the rescue from Haman's plan for genocide and the Exodus from Egyptian bondage.

In our daily prayers we offer thanks to G-d "for Your daily miracles for us." If one reflects on the ever-present threats to our health, our security and our sustenance, he can truly appreciate that we safely make it to the end of the day thanks to the miracles of which we are not even aware.

For this reason we should feel a sense of simcha every day and every month of the year. Since, however, this joy is dulled by the pressure of our daily routine, we need a portion of the year to awaken us to the simcha of knowing that G-d is always with us. It is hoped that this "increase in simcha" will overflow into every day of our lives.

Purim and Pesach are forever the joyous reminders that Israelis forever.

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