The Problem with Progress




Self-care is important. Success is all too often measured in terms of the measurable; possessions, popularity and performance. Spending time alone, nurturing one’s mind and heart, doesn’t attract attention in the marketplace of achievement.

Some people chase opportunities, others are chased by them. Avraham was the former, his life was perpetual motion, from city to city and town to town, raising awareness and inspiring change. Yitzchak was the latter, never moving from the Holy Land, a settled existence, a waterhole of sorts eagerly sought by thirsty souls.

Consolidation and progress are the yin and yang of real life. Neither can exist without the other. Yet consolidation is often sacrificed on the altar of progress. (Avraham nearly did slaughter Yitzchak, come to think of it). Whilst spreading the word might be the goal, the words spread need to have meaning. For it is only the consolidated word that lasts forever. Yitzchak’s story is a brief one, but tellingly, his parsha is Toldot, meaning ‘offspring’. It is his message, of self-care and composure, that guides his descendants towards a truly fruitful existence.

Having an impact isn’t about having the loudest voice, its about having a consistent one. We create change by improving ourselves, slowly but surely.


Based on Lekkutei Sichot vol. 25 pp 123-130

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