“וירא העם כי בשש משה לרדת מן ההר ויקהל העם על אהרן ויאמרו אליו קום עשה לנו אלהים”

      The miscalculation of the Jewish people was what led to a momentary period of confusion and depression. Explains the Mirrer Rosh Yeshivah, R’ Chaim Shmuelevitz zt”l (Sichos Mussar), since Geulas Mitzrayim, the Nation had been under Moshe Rabbeinu’s constant and continuous leadership; his guidance and direct communication with Hashem gave them stability and certainty. The moment they feared that Moshe wasn’t returning, they panicked, leading them to build the Golden Calf. This teaches us that we must be particularly alert during moments of confusion and depression in our lives, since we can be vulnerable to mistakes and errors in judgment.”