High Expectations

The Mishna states that every Jew is righteous. Yet how can it be expected of every Jew, regardless of circumstances or the education he received, that he conduct himself “righteously” in every aspect of his life?

The Midrash relates a parable: A king had an only daughter who married in a far-off place, and the king requested that a room be built for him there so he may stay with his daughter.

Jewish souls are called “the daughter of a Kohen” and God is called “a Kohen.” Wherever a Jew may find himself he finds G-d, for his divine soul is “a part of God above.” He need only allow it to shine openly within him. When G-d is so near, one has the ability not only to overcome any challenges, but to elevate the world, along with himself, through Torah.