Subject: In Memory of Baruch Yitzchak ben Yirmiyahu (Barry Pessin)
From: Heath Berkin <heath.berkin@gmail.com>
Date: 12/22/2017, 4:19 AM
To: Heath Berkin <heath.berkin@gmail.com>
BCC: menachem@alonsystems.com

The last Mishna in Avos says "HaKodesh Baruch Hu Wanted to merit (the Jewish People) Yisrael, so therefore He gave them much Torah and Mitzvos" .

This Mishna gives us the proper perspective on how we view the spiritual obligations that are placed upon us. At times they may seem difficult to fulfill and burdensome, but this is because we lack the proper understanding in their value. That doesn't mean that they will all become easy to fulfill, but it will be make it easier with the proper appreciation. As the Mishna says, Hashem gave us many mitzvoth in order to increase our reward. When we understand that all of our spiritual obligations are for our benefit and are a means through which Hashem "Can" shower us with good and kindness, our perspective should change. This doesn't only mean our routine daily obligations, but all mitzvoth such as the obligation to have faith and belief in G-D which is constantly required of us as we are faced with challenges in life. The difficulties of life at times may require from us to show and act with tremendous amounts of belief and trust in G-d but this too, is only in order to increase our ultimate reward for remaining steadfast. 

I wanted to thank everyone for reading each week.

Thank G-d, we have "completed" Pirkei Avos and with G-d's Help we'll begin something new next week!

Shabbat Shalom,

Heath