“Contented with little but wishing for more.” -Charles Lamb
The wisdom of Jewish tradition is woven into the fabric of the world around us, revealing itself in unexpected and fascinating places. Recently, a friend who was raised Mormon shared with me the concept of tithing, and I was surprised to learn that she didn’t realize this practice—giving a portion of one’s income to support the community—originates in the Old Testament. Moments like these remind me of how often we encounter echoes of our ancient tradition; whether in conversation with a non-Jewish friend, while watching a film, or reading a great literary work. Our thousands-of-years-old heritage continues to shape and inspire, proving that its wisdom is not merely a relic of the past but very much alive in the present, waiting to be recognized wherever we turn.
Recently, I was reading Charles Lamb’s timeless poetry and tales—beautifully adapted for children—to our oldest daughter. These stories introduce young minds to elevated language, profound ideas, and the richness of the literary world. The above concept from Lamb struck me as deeply Jewish: the notion that we can be content with what we have while still striving for more. From a young age, we are taught the Jewish value of hakarat hatov—recognizing and appreciating the good in our lives, no matter how small. At the same time, Judaism encourages hishtadlut, genuine effort, urging us to constantly seek growth—spiritually, intellectually, and even materially.
The balance that Lamb describes—embracing gratitude while pursuing personal growth—is at the heart of Jewish wisdom. Today, take a moment to notice something in your life with a deep sense of appreciation. And then ask yourself: where can I take one step forward in personal growth, learning, or worldly contribution?
—Cantor Emma Lutz