How Torah Builds Stronger Relationships

Standing in the Milwaukee airport after a round of goodbyes, Rabbi Meister shares a moment of quiet reflection. His parents just boarded a flight, and earlier that morning, his children and son-in-law headed back to New York after celebrating Chanukah and a personal family milestone together.

Instead of feeling only the sadness of parting, he feels something deeper: gratitude.

Gratitude for the people in his life. Gratitude for the strong bonds that tie them together. And perhaps most importantly, gratitude for what made those bonds possible—the Torah.

In his words, “I really have the Torah to blame for that—and to thank.” Because the Torah doesn’t just teach laws or rituals—it teaches relationships. It offers guidance on how to show up for others, how to communicate, how to forgive, how to honor, and how to love.

These teachings don’t work overnight. But when applied consistently—week after week, year after year—they shape the way we live and connect. They build trust, empathy, patience, and strength. For Rabbi Meister, it’s not just theory. It’s something he’s lived: with his family, his students, and his broader community.

It’s easy to forget in today’s fast-moving world that meaningful relationships take work. But Torah offers a blueprint—not just for getting along, but for building something lasting.

And in that small moment at the airport, Rabbi Meister reminds us that the gift of Torah isn’t only what it teaches us—it’s who it helps us become for the people we love.