We all strive for peace of mind. We want to feel good, have enough in the bank to cover our bills and not to have to worry about if we can afford that vacation, outfit, etc. and that our children should be happy, healthy and stable.

 

Alas, that is an ever elusive dream.

 

So are we doomed? Are we destined to a life of chaos and discomfort?

 

This Sunday is Rosh Chodesh, the first of the month of Sivan.  On this day 3335 years ago the Jewish People camped in the Sinai Desert, in anticipation of the Revelation that was to take place a few days later.

 

The Torah tells us that the Jews camped as one, “like one person with one heart”.  

 

The unity was such a significant event in our history that in the famous passage in the Haggadah it says that if G-d had brought us to Sinai but had not given us the Torah – Dayeinu – it would have been enough!

 

What brought about such a powerful unity?

 

The answer to both of these questions are connected.

 

As the Jews approached Sinai the Divine revelation that they were about to experience cleared the air, it removed the fog that blocks the ability to see the real purpose in everything and the true identity of others.  At that moment, there were no blockages.  The essence of each Jew was exposed and they were able to connect without distinction.

 

What causes us to feel like the chaos is overwhelming and that prevents us from being present is recognizing the chaos for its outer shell.  When we see the chaos as something crushing, an interference, something outside of the Divine plan then we are troubled by it and it causes disorder and confusion.

 

If we look at the chaos (or discomfort) as G-d showing up in our life, we can begin to imagine what G-d is telling us.  G-d is saying, I am the chaos, I am here to challenge you to look deeper into what is going on around you and to realize that there is nothing devoid of G-dliness.  I am the chaos.

 

If we accept that, then we can begin to ask what are the action items G-d is empowering us to make through the discomfort and the chaos.

 

On a personal note; I struggle with migraines.  I’ve invested myself in various modes of self healing including “mindfulness”.  If you struggle with chronic pain and have explored this mode, you’ll be familiar with the idea of leaning into your pain.  Be present with the pain. 

 

For me that is very difficult.  I get angry at my pain.  I find it very difficult to be present with it. “Go away!” is what my brain and heart screams when I’m in a migraine.

 

I was listening to a podcast from Rabbi Joey Rosenfeld yesterday and he shared the idea above around chaos and discomfort.  I think the messaging is finally clear.  It is actually the embrace of G-d in the pain that allows for us to be at peace.

 

In practice in our lives, when things are challenging and we may be angry, frustrated or want to push back, that is the moment when we have the choice to see G-d in the pain and struggle. To embrace Hashem and realize that He is in charge and is orchestrating it all.  That is the key to a life of peace and tranquility – the real type.

 

Have a good Shabbos!