A Lesson in Self-Esteem
"Rabbi Akiva said, 'Beloved is man to HaShem, for he was created in G-d's likeness. An additional dimension of HaShem's love for man is expressed through HaShem making known to man that he was created in His likeness, as it says, 'For in the likeness of G-d, He made man.'" (Pirkei Avos 3:18)
While many people struggle to find self-worth, the Torah reveals the secret of authentic personal happiness. Attaining genuine self-worth rests on knowing three truths revealed in the Torah. First, is the revelation that HaShem, created man with the beautiful attributes of Divine goodness, that reflect the goodness of G-d, Himself. Secondly, our very attribute of goodness, that HaShem implanted within our souls, make us eternally beloved to HaShem. Thirdly, the fact that HaShem revealed to man that He created us in His likeness, uncovers an additional dimension of HaShem's love for man.
Lesson: The awareness of HaShem's wondrous love for man is the bedrock of our self-esteem. Nothing gives us true self-worth as much as knowing that HaShem loves us and values us for our inherent essence - the goodness of our souls.
Visualization: Envision receiving a text-message from HaShem expressing that He loves you because of your inherent goodness. Imagine how happy and empowered you feel in knowing that you are so cherished and beloved to HaShem. (Based on Ohr HaZafon) To receive Salant Emails please send "request" to salantorg@gmail.com |
L"N R' Yochanon Mordecai ben Ephraim and Moras Esther Leah bas Yehudah Yoseph
Refuah Shleimah Yochanon Baruch ben Fruma Etta Refuah Shleimah R' Pinchas ben Gittel Rus Refuah Shleimah R' Matisyahu Chaim ben Ettel Refuah Shleimah Avraham ben Faige Refuah Sheimah for Dovid Noach ben Shoshana Raizel Refuah Shleimah Shaya ben Malkah
Refuah Shleimah Chaya Raizel bas Dena |
