Shmini Atzeret-Simchat Torah

Tonight is Shmini Atzeret-Simchat Torah. Even though it's connected with Succot, it is considered a holiday in itself. Hashem has said to the Jewish people, קשה עלי פרידתכם, that it's difficult to separate, so we were asked to stay another day before leaving for the winter.! For this reason, we say שהחיינו tonight both with candle lighting and Kiddush.We also celebrate our completing the Torah, the greatest gift given to the Jewish people and the world. We must remember the words of the Tanya where it is written that the Torah and Hashem are one and the same. They are inseparable. The Tanya also mentions the importance of observing Halacha. The explanation is that when we observe Jewish Law we are actually fulfilling Hashem's will in this world.It's a good idea to resolve to study פרשת שבוע with a little more seriousness this year. Next Shabbat we begin Breishit again. Perhaps we should learn a new commentary this year. In any case, we must constantly appreciate the Torah we were given at Sinai.