| "You shall choose life" (Devarim 30:19).
Rabenu Yona teaches us that one of the many virtues of the Mitzvot (commandments) is the principle of "You shall choose life." For example, consider a person about to eat a steak, but there is a doubt regarding its kashrut (kosher status). If the person decides not to eat the steak, they fulfill the Mitzvah of "You shall choose life."
Rabenu Nissim compares this situation to everyday matters. Imagine someone is thinking about investing in a business. If a risk arises, they choose not to invest. This decision is simply a matter of common sense. If common sense guides us in worldly affairs, it should be even more prevalent regarding spiritual matters!
Eating a steak that might not be kosher poses a spiritual risk. It would be common sense not to eat it.
Today: Make an inner commitment to refrain from risking a possible sin — and earn the merit of fulfilling the positive commandment "You shall choose life."
(Sefer Charedim 9:20)
Note: This week, we learned that Klal Yisrael suffered under Egyptian bondage as a result of speaking Lashon Hara. In today’s world, we are constantly exposed to social media and news broadcasts, where Lashon Hara is widespread. We would love to hear from our subscribers: What practical steps can we take to address and rectify this issue in our own lives and communities? Thank you for your valuable insights and support! | 
