Hello, Rabbi Motzen, I would like to interview you about the coronavirus (COVID-19) as a message to the kids of this community.
Akiva Schnitzer: What would you say to kids wanting to go to their friends’ house to play?
Rabbi Motzen: I would tell the kids it is against halacha right now to go play at friends’ houses, but I also want you to know that you have an incredible opportunity to save people’s lives like the greatest doctors and medical professionals. By staying home, you are helping save people’s lives, and that is an incredible opportunity that, normally, a 10-, 11-, 12-, and even a 35-or 55-year-old doesn’t have. So I want you to think about this and take into consideration that this is what is going to save people’s lives. It is going to be hard and challenging, but we know you can do it. And it is a huge mitzva.
AS: What if your neighbor is having a ball game? Can you join?
RM: Doctors are saying that going to a friend’s house to play ball, even if it is outdoors, is not okay right now because when you pass the ball to each other you are also passing germs. So this is something we have to avoid, as hard as it is. You could definitely play ball with your own family but not with your friends.
AS: Is bike riding okay if you don’t go to a specific place, like a store or a friend?
RM: Going bike riding is okay right now. If you want to bike or ride your scooter around the neighborhood or go for a walk or rollerblading, these are all wonderful things to do. It’s important to get some fresh air. We shouldn't be cooped up in our homes, so please go biking, etc. It is an excellent idea to keep you busy and healthy at the same time.
AS: What is your message to the kids of this community?
RM: We all know that Purim just passed by, and after Haman’s terrible decree, what did Mordechai do? He called over the kids and learned and davened with them, and that’s what saved the Jewish people. My message is that surely that will save us, too. It may not be easy to learn on the phone right now, but through your learning and your tefilos, we will all be safe.
