16 Comments
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Lorraine Evanoff's avatar

Amen to this Manuel.

"Parties and happy hours at bars may bring happiness, but for me it is service and humility that puts the lid on the trashcan of despair and uncovers joy.

There are 8 billion opportunities to help someone out there if I just look beyond myself and focus on others in need.

The joy of giving awaits…"

Manuel A Garcia's avatar

Thanks again for your support, Lorraine.

Karen S. Bonnell's avatar

In the Jewish mystical tradition, when G-d’s Light, too intense, shattered the vessels sending shards far and wide … we each contain a shard. Our only job is to return our piece, our tiny portion, in order to bring wholeness back to the World (tikkun olam). Our Joy! our Light! #perspective

Manuel A Garcia's avatar

Your reply resonates with me, Karen. Thanks. What is your source for that gem of wisdom?

Karen S. Bonnell's avatar

i left out an impt word!! the shards are shards of Light!!! Maybe that was clear : ) This is from Jewish Kabbalah - myth of the beginning of the Universe.

https://share.google/aimode/zgZ6Q7d1H0kQzXRzd

Manuel A Garcia's avatar

Thank you so much, Karen. I have the Kabbalah and read it years ago. “Read it” but failed to absorb the mystical aspects. I will be meditatively reading from the link that you so kindly sent and from my copy of the Kabbalah as well. Happy Hanukkah, my friend.

Karen S. Bonnell's avatar

“Practical Kabbalah” by Rabbi Wolfe is accessible & excellent : ) Lots of traditions, one truth. 🌲

B Stings's avatar

Leading by example. If everyone thought this way and practiced meditation, we'd have a much, much different world...and what a wonderful world it would be.

Dawn Smith's avatar

8 Billion opportunities to help someone- a shining reminder of what this holiday season is supposed to be about.

I read this after my morning's experience: The surprised smile on the face of the young woman who cuts my hair- for the small holiday bonus I added to her tip- made my day (and, it seems, hers). So easy to do good things for others.

Manuel A Garcia's avatar

We need to work on that idea, Dawn. Thanks for the feedback. 🙏🏻

chris cavanagh's avatar

You remind me of the Buddhist story of the student who, in despair, approaches his teacher. "I have made so little progress in learning. What am I to do? I feel so discouraged." The teacher looks at his student and says, "Then this is what you must do: go and encourage others."

Manuel A Garcia's avatar

Thank you very much, Chris, for expanding my thoughts. 🙏🏻

Dwight Lee Wolter's avatar

The unbroken can never be reassembled.

Manuel A Garcia's avatar

Much wisdom in your reply, Dwight. Thank you.

W. Scott Cameron's avatar

A great read to start my day and reflect on joy and how I can continue to spread the word.

Manuel A Garcia's avatar

Thank you for your kindness, Scott. Have a beautiful and fulfilling day.