Introspective Thoughts

There is a famous quote in Pirkei Avot that I deeply relate to: “If I am not for myself, who is for me? But if I am for my own self [only], what am I? And if not now, when?” (Pirkei Avot 1:14). This quote directs me towards a state of accountability and highlights the essence of my being: to be responsible for myself. Establishing a relationship with oneself is a never-ending challenge, but the constant grind is what brings one to their potential. Grasping the concept of self-development is the formula to a fulfilling life. By struggling through faults and weaknesses, one will be capable of attaining individual perfection. This is precisely why life is beautiful in Olam Hazeh. Although we look forward to the endless delights that will come in Olam Habah, it is only in this world that we can uproot ourselves and progress along our unique ladders. The rungs of our lives are coarse and slippery, we may even slip. In spite of that, Hashem told us that we are capable of reaching the tip-top.

Hashem gave us all of the equipment necessary, we just have to convince ourselves to utilize them. Without self-motivation, we would be powerlessly maneuvering around, with no direction. Motivating ourselves to become driven-machines is required for the next steps along the journey. To be considered alive is to be actively choosing to live. It’s a choice that takes a lifetime. Reflecting on ourselves and introspecting on who we have and aspire to become is a part of the decision-making process. When we identify that Hashem selected us to fulfill a Divine mission, we will be bestowed with clarity and peace in the holy movements we, individually, decide to take.

Life is full of opportunities for those who passionately seek them. Having a relationship with myself allows me to accept rebuke and get my head straight to set my mind on the Derech. Once we embrace our realities, in any respect, we will be capable of attaining the greatest life that Hashem created us for.