During the Days of Awe this year, I have been thinking a lot about a conversation I had last Sunday with my 8-year-old son, Ezra, after he angered me with his defiant back-talk. I have been asking myself – do I continue to forgive him for the same infractions over and over again?

Ezra is very good at apologizing for talking back and not listening. He is sincere, contrite and adorable. Until I ask him to do something he is morally against, such as teeth brushing or bed making. Then there is no justice, no peace.