Why is this night different from all other nights? Because we eat matzah and bitter herbs, dip twice, and lean comfortably. We already know the answers because we have read the same seder our whole lives. Still, every year we ask the same questions just to answer them the same way. So, why do we keep asking? 

In Judaism, we are encouraged from a young age to question every rule and value we follow. It’s how we learn, grow, and connect with each other. We are taught that it is okay to not have everything figured out, and in fact, that’s where the most meaningful conversations start.

However, in our day-to-day lives, it doesn’t always feel that way. In school, questions are treated as steps to understanding certain concepts, and 

In Judaism, asking questions isn’t just allowed, it’s expected. It’s how we learn, how we grow, and how we connect, not just to the story of Passover, but to each other. We’re taught that it’s ok to not have everything figured out. Actually, that's where the most meaningful conversations start.

But in our everyday lives, it doesn’t always feel that way. In school, questions can feel like something you’re supposed to outgrow, like once you know the answer, you’re done. And even in BBYO, it can sometimes feel like being a leader means having everything together, knowing what to say, and never second-guessing yourself. Like confidence means certainty.

But the truth is, the best leaders, the ones who actually make an impact, are the ones who ask questions. They listen, they stay curious, and they’re not afraid to admit when they don’t know something. BBYO is built on connection and growth, and you can’t grow if you think you already have all the answers.

Every time we read the Haggadah, something changes. Maybe it’s us. We’ve grown, we’ve had new experiences, we see things differently than we did last year. Or maybe it’s the people around our table, bringing new perspectives and new questions. The words stay the same, but what they mean to us doesn’t.

So maybe this night is different, not just because of the traditions we follow, but because it reminds us of the kind of people, and the kind of leaders, we want to be. The kind who keep asking, keep learning, and keep showing up for each other. Because in Judaism, and in BBYO, it’s not about having all the answers. It’s about being brave enough to keep asking the questions.

Chag Sameach, 

Dana Manor

Central Region West