Divine Image - Respect for Life - #3

How many times do we mention Moshiach a year in our prayers? Why does the Rambam end his code of Jewish law with Moshiach?

It might seem axiomatic that human life is valuable, but a hard look at history reveals that the concept was once considered utterly radical. To discover how respect for life became a universal value, we'll explore the underlined questions: What makes us human? And what are we here to do?

Ancient societies focused on self survival and self-promotion, with the unfortunate left by the wayside. This was not seen as cruel or uncaring until the Torah introduced the radical concept of social responsibilities, such as assisting the needy and providing jobs, as a moral obligation of civilization and its individual members. It took centuries for the idea to infiltrate the rest of humanity, in a process that is far from complete. The Torah remains a powerful source of inspiration for social change.

Relationships are the most rewarding and challenging features of human life. Healthy relationships are critical to positive emotions, but they are highly elusive. This lesson introduces a significant shift in the way we view the foundation upon which all of our relationships are based. This New perspective empowers us to enjoy better, lasting, and more genuine relationships, even with individuals with whom we share little in common.

Despite considering ourselves successful in terms of health, finances, and relationships, we sometimes fall into a funk, feeling unexplainably lackadaisical or unhappy. this lesson explores the inner workings of happiness and examines our instinctive methods of securing satisfaction. It then delivers a shift in perspective that sets a workable goal of inner contentment and fulfillment.

Harsh reality can bring genuine suffering and sadness, swiftly deflating the most optimistic attitudes. Well-meaning reminders that time heals, or that G-d knows what is best, do little to heal the searing pain of open wounds. This lesson explores methods of shifting our internal perspectives to allow the sun to shine in our lives despite the stark reality of our suffering.

We all slip up at times, sometimes drastically, and it is natural and healthy to experience regret or guilt. However, if such emotions become paralyzing and distressful, these seriously impede our efforts to maintain positive and successful living. This lesson explores the inner workings of guilt and regret and delivers a transformative method of tackling guilt and spinning it into a catalyst for positive change.

Self disappointment can be debilitating: we long to view ourselves as ethical individuals but are frustrated at perpetually wrestling with character flaws such as pettiness, greed, thoughtlessness, anger, lack of integrity, or spiritual insensitivity. Reflecting on our flaws produces a destructive sense of shame and inadequacy. This lesson explains the intended role of character flaws in the human condition and explores methods of maintaining genuine optimism and positivity despite their lingering presence.

All the questions about Moshiach, with the right glasses, become opportunities.

Positive emotions are paramount for successful living, but genuine happiness and contentment are highly elusive. A common challenge is discomfort with our own accomplishments simple because we feel hypocritical. This lesson explores why positivity is critical, charts a path to tackling impediments to happier living, and unveils the means of embracing and effectively expressing our innate authenticity.