| Once there lived two neighbors—one immensely wealthy, the other a humble craftsman. The rich man owned vast herds of cattle and sheep, sprawling vineyards, and fertile fields. His dining table resembled a royal banquet, and his home was nothing short of a palace. Yet, despite his opulent lifestyle, he was pale, frail, and constantly unwell.
Next door lived a simple artisan. Though he could not afford daily feasts, he managed to provide modest meals for his family. His small home contained little beyond the bare necessities. Yet his body was strong, and his face radiated joy and contentment.
One day, the wealthy man turned to his neighbor and asked, “How is it that I, with all my wealth, am so weak and unwell, while you, with so little, are full of vitality and happiness?”
The craftsman replied, “My friend, your troubles come not from your lack of possessions, but from the burden of your inner world. You often lose your temper—shouting at your servants and scolding your children many times a day. Anger weakens the body and exhausts the soul. Moreover, your heart is filled with insatiable desires, envy, and worry. These feelings drain your energy and disturb your peace. How can health thrive in such turmoil?"
“I, on the other hand, have learned to be content with the portion HaShem has granted me. I rarely lose my temper, and I harbor no jealousy. I focus on gratitude, not comparison. This inner calm grants me peace of mind—and peace of mind is the root of both physical and spiritual health.”
Today: True happiness and health come not from wealth or possessions, but from refining one’s character and cultivating inner peace.
(Based on the Parables of the Ben Ish Chai)
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