Elul 17, 5779
September 17, 2019
For some, feeling content or fulfilled is a lifelong pursuit. We don’t know when to stop striving. But as the new year approaches, instead of only looking at the places where we were lacking, it is also helpful to look at what was fulfilling in our lives, what brought us feelings of contentedness and peace.
From our Sources
Ben Zoma would say: “Who is rich? The one who is content with her lot.”
-Pirkei Avot 4:1
Who seeks more than he needs, hinders himself from enjoying what he has. Seek what you need and give up what you need not. For in giving up what you don’t need, you’ll learn what you really do need.
-Solomon ibn Gabirol (11
th
century)
Reflections
Do you find it easy or challenging to be content with what you have?
If it is a challenge, what emotions or circumstances do you think affect your general level of contentedness?
What would you need to “give up” in order to feel satisfied?
