Light against dark. Small against large.

Contrast is a tool employed by artists to draw the viewer’s attention to a particular point of interest, to make it stand out from its surroundings.

Our mother Rebecca is described as a “rose amongst thorns”—a stark contrast to her pagan father, Betuel, and her corrupt brother, Laban. Considering her background, it is remarkable that Rebecca was a modest girl with fine qualities, and a suitable wife for Isaac, son of Abraham.

There is another set of contrasts, found in the heart of every human being. There is the G‑dly soul: an altruistic soul with spiritual aspirations. And there is the “animal soul”: the thorns of our personality and the self-centered nature that surrounds the G‑dly soul. And it is remarkable when, notwithstanding the “animal” in us, we can rise above our natural tendencies and follow the hankerings of our G‑dly soul.

Thoughtstream: Today, I will act in contrast to my “animal” impulse and in line with my G‑dly aspirations.

(Adapted from Likutei Sichot, vol. 35, pg. 272; El Nishei, pg. 381.)