Friday, February 5, 2016

Finding Joy in Small Things

This week's parsha, Mishpatim, follows the greatest event in Jewish history, the revelation at Sinai, the giving of the Ten Commandments. Mishpatim then ends with more about the Ten Commandments event. Sandwiched between the two there are many basic laws.

Why does Hashem have it written this way? Why is it, that smack in middle of the most sublime, spiritual experience, we have the most rudimentary, seemingly unspiritual laws?

We all yearn for a moving, spiritual experience. To be touched, moved and inspired. To rise above the mundane and soar, to experience a high and touch the divine.

This sounds nice, but is this what we are all about?

Of course, we are meant to develop a relationship with Hashem, but there is something more that Hashem wants of us.

By putting these laws in middle of the most sublime event, Hashem is telling us that there is something special about basic laws that is sublime as well.

Could being good, kind, honest and just, be spiritual? When you think of these laws as rudimentary,  they are not so spiritual. However if you see them as Hashem's will, they take on a whole new meaning.

All of a sudden, the simplest things become meaningful. You are filled with a sense of fulfillment, knowing that you are doing what Hashem wants. Inspiration can be found in kindness, honesty, and in acceptance of the simplest Torah laws. Suddenly spirituality starts to be found in the most unexpected places. The simplest act can be sublime, and holy.

I have found that the simplest things in life make the greatest impact. For example, smiling at someone, can lift their spirits. An honest compliment, can change the way a person sees him / herself. When you learn to find joy in small things, there are always things to be joyous about.

Dina and I just celebrated our twentieth anniversary. Unable to do much, we wondered, how we would celebrate this milestone. So we went outside, sat under a tree and just enjoyed nature. The sun, leaves, birds, etc. It was wonderful.

Think of all the small things you can do to make a difference. Find joy in small things. If you do, you will always have something to be happy about.

8 comments:

  1. Hi yitzi keep it coming you always know exactly how to put it
    Gut vich

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  2. Hi yitzi keep it coming you always know exactly how to put it
    Gut vich

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  3. Beautiful and inspiring. Thank you.

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  4. Beautiful and inspiring. Thank you.

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  5. By the way your article on advice for husbands in Neshei Magazine was very inspiring. I already put some of your advice into action with positive results! Please post more advice columns in Neshei for men!

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  6. Thank you for writing this. It is just what I needed to hear today.

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  7. Happy Anniversary- late.
    Late is better than never they say.
    Especially since I have just come upon your blog.
    Can you tell my husband works nights?
    I am on your ninth blog now- reading from 3-31 to here. LOL
    Finding joy in the small things, shows appreciation for all in life.
    I appreciate G-d's blessings in my life- such as coming upon your blog. Thank you.
    Martha

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