It could disappear like a puff of smoke. That’s how inspiration feels sometimes. I learn something, hear a good talk, or witness something that inspires me so much and makes me feel so . . . spiritual. How can I ground that inspiration so it won’t disintegrate into thin air?

On Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the year, there is a fascinating prerequisite for the high priest’s entrance into the Holy of Holies. At any other time of year, the high priest can perform his duties as a single man. But in order to fulfill the awesome service of Yom Kippur, he has to be married.

Why is it that on the holiest day of the year, when he attains the greatest of spiritual heights, the high priest must have a wife to go home to?

Because Judaism doesn’t celebrate celibacy, but family. Judaism doesn’t advocate disconnection from the world, but connection—by bringing inspiration into the physical world. On Yom Kippur, the high priest is likely to get caught up in his own spiritual endeavors, which could then dissipate in moments. He therefore must channel his lofty spiritual service into practically fulfilling G‑d’s will, symbolized by the woman he married and the home they are building together.

Thoughtstream: Today, I will translate my inspiration into a specific physical action I can do to fulfill G‑d’s will.

(Adapted from Likkutei Sichot, vol. 3, p. 991.)