This week, we have studied some of the halachot of hachanah, the prohibition against preparing on Shabbat for after Shabbat. As we have seen, many activities that might ordinarily be permitted on Shabbat become problematic when they are done solely to prepare for after Shabbat. The Peninei Halacha (Shabbat 22:15) explains that this is because Shabbat is a time dedicated to holiness, rest, and enjoyment of the day itself. When we spend our time and energy preparing for the weekday, we are taking our attention away from the special day that Hashem has given us.

This idea goes beyond the specific halachot of hachanah. One of the keys to making the most of any experience is learning to be fully present. When we are involved in a mitzvah, spending time with our family, or simply enjoying a special experience, we should try to focus on what we are doing rather than constantly thinking about what comes next. This can be difficult in our modern world. We may be sitting at a beautiful family event while thinking about everything we need to accomplish tomorrow, or trying to video the experience on our phones rather than simply enjoying it ourselves. When our minds are always somewhere else, we can miss what is right in front of us. The halachot of hachanah teach us to put aside our concerns for the coming week and appreciate the holiness of the day Hashem has given us. More broadly, they remind us of the importance of being fully present and to live in the moment rather than looking at what comes next or being distracted with other issues.

As we begin the post-chagim winter months, this attitude can enrich every area of our lives. Learning to be present is not merely a way to enjoy life more; it allows us to give our full attention to the mitzvah, experience, or person before us, and thereby make each moment far more meaningful.

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Dedicated by Fran Broder as a zechus for everlasting peace in Eretz Yisrael in the merit of learning Hilchos Shabbos.