Each day we are faced with challenges in our interactions and personal choices.It is so very hard to always behave and speak in ways that are considered ‘good’, even when we have ample strength and resources to resist the temptation to misstep
It is hard to eat right, exercise, make appropriate ethical choices, stop at every light that is changing to red, avoid spreading information that is not ours to share, and only speak well of and kindly to others.
There is a verse in Parshat Noach that is often overlooked in the context of the larger story. “And the Lord smelled the pleasant aroma, and the Lord said to Himself, ‘I will no longer curse the earth because of man, for the imagination of man’s heart is evil from his youth…’” (Genesis 8:21)
G-d , to use common speak, has had an “A-ha moment,” realizing that because we have been gifted with free will, humans are subject to temptation. Yet, it might also be seen as a “Pygmalion Effect” type of statement – are we now fulfilling G-d’s expectations?
Just think of the grocery store – if only healthy items were stocked it would be so much easier to eat right! Free will means we face decisions at every moment. It is, frankly, exhausting to act with constant intention. It means always thinking about the right words to say (or not say), the best action to take to move forward with grace, and the healthiest snack to grab.
Rather than face constant energy drain, most people put their growth efforts into a few areas and then move forward in routine ways in others. Sometimes we don’t notice our missteps; when they are mentioned we become defensive and argumentative, justifying our actions. At other moments we are grateful for quiet asides, so we can focus on growth.
Yet, we can, if we try, work to surprise G-d by proving this prediction incorrect. We can choose to build a life of intention. Start by committing to one day each week. Decide you will do your best to act with the intention to act with grace and wisdom at every turn. At the end of the day, take time to reflect upon what went well and where you can do better next week. When one day each week feels easy, take on another and then another, continuing to reflect upon your growth, your changing interactions, and the difference it makes for you and others.
You and I can change the world with every step and action; may we have the strength and the grace to do so.
Prior to her position with the Grinspoon Foundation, Iris served as a synagogue educator in Syracuse NY, the Central New York PJ Library Program Coordinator and as a national consultant for PJ Library.
Iris holds a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood, Elementary, and Special Education, a master’s degree in Special Education and Reading, and Advanced Certification in School Leadership and Administration. Her experience as a secular educator and educational leader in congregational and community settings spans over 20 years. She is also a lay leader in Jewish organizations on the local and national levels. Iris served as the President of CAJE – the Coalition for the Advancement of Jewish Education, which was the largest member organization for Jewish educators in the country.
- May My (and Your) Yom Kippur Be Filled Meaning - October 3, 2014
- We All Are Standing Here.. Now What Will You Do? - September 19, 2014
- ‘Tis the Season of Transitions - September 12, 2014