Good Self-Esteem Is the Essential Character Trait
Rabbi Akiva said: Beloved is man, for he was created in G-d's likeness. An additional dimension of HaShem's love for man is revealed 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 Avot 3:18)
The quality of life that one enjoys is dependent upon one's sense of self-esteem.
Healthy self-esteem yields the recognition of one's inherent worth and the love of life! It also inspires a person to dedicate all of his energy to elevate himself and those around him.
Good self-esteem is equivalent to "life," and is the essential character trait.
The primary spiritual task of man is to recognize man's significance according to the Creator's evaluation. And what does the Torah say about humankind? "Beloved is man, for he was created in G-d's likeness."
The additional dimension of love that HaShem holds for man is the Creator's divulgence of the worth of man -- "he is a likeness of G-d!" This pertains both to his nobility regarding himself as well as his preciousness to HaShem.
When we reflect on the goodness of man -- the "likeness of HaShem" -- we will uncover the profound significance of this concept. We will come to realize that the value of man surpasses all other entities of good that exist!
(Based on Ohr HaZafon of Rabbi Nosson Zvi Finkel)
