Who has not felt frustrated over the past few months in quarantine? Who did not feel enraged seeing the horrific video of George Floyd's tragic passing? But, does experiencing darkness mean we have to be overwhelmed by it?
Today, 3rd of Tamuz, we commemorate the 26th year since the passing of the Lubavitcher Rebbe of blessed memory. As a teacher and a guide in life, the Rebbe's impact on myself, my family, and our community in Rockville, has been positively tangible and still continues unfolding to this very day.
The Rebbe taught that our magnificent world is an artistic masterpiece. It is exquisitely intricate, sophisticated and complicated. Its shadows and darkness can seem to us as only negative, a inky blot on a beautiful scene in a beautiful world. Surely the artist though, G-d himself, doesn't see it that way. An artist sees every shadow as an opportunity to contrast light and vitality.
If we are to observe G-d's art and truly appreciate every nuance, every shade of meaning, then we must strive to find the light even in the darkest of times.
The Talmud teaches, says the Rebbe, that when one uncovers the G-dly light in the world, when one identifies the true beauty of G-d creation, he becomes a partner in that creation itself. The greatness of the Artist and His work is revealed through us.
Recent events have shown each and every one of us how we can be more thoughtful and caring. At a time when people are consumed with their own safety and security, preoccupied with the well being of their own families and loved ones, concerned for the economic future of our country - consumed with darkness; at a time when our nation is deeply divided politically - the opposite of light; we still come together and are there for each other. We've seen ourselves be more kind and more giving, even to people we don't even know.
Let's allow ourselves to step back and take note of this beauty. Let's think positively. Let's use this time to focus the light, to add goodness and kindness and make this world a better place.
