by Rabbi David Woznica
Who is rich? Ben Zoma, a 2nd century sage, famously asks in Pirke Avot (Chapter 4). His answer, equally well-known, is One who is happy with his lot. For years I have found his response comforting and, at the same time, unsettling.
The risk in becoming too happy with one’s lot is that of complacency. Yes, we should be happy and appreciative for what we have. And yet, to be fully content can lead to a life without aspiration. We should work to further develop our business or have dreams of a nicer home. We should strive for more knowledge, to improve our marriage and our relationships. We want our children to be grateful for what they have while at the same time we want them to have ambitions.
It is also true for society. The Western ideal is that each generation should live better than the previous one. We are not to be content with disease. We strive to improve modes of transportation, of communication and work to make a freer and better world.
Let us be happy and appreciative for what we have while at the same time having a steadfast desire to move ahead. Striking that balance is one of the keys to a fulfilled and inspired life.
Rabbi Woznica welcomes your response at [email protected]
