This month is Chesvan, often called the bitter month; the usual explanation is because there are no holidays. I think the bitterness is revealed in this week's Torah portion with stories of lies, deceit, the struggle of a mother's misery, and a son who gives up his birthright for a bowl of red lentils. And if that's not enough, there is the famous line: "Mother always liked you better!"  Yes - all that from this week's Torah portion Toldot. You are invited to bring your problems to this special Shabbat and some red lentils to share at the Oneg following the service