Yesterday we professed the value of patience, which serves as the filter between thought and action. We have talked a lot about action, because that is a visible demonstration of our character. But today we turn inward to the source and generator of every behavior that ultimately manifests. Today we turn to the heart.
Pirkei Avot earnestly promotes the prime value of a good heart:
He [Rabban Yohanan] said unto them: go forth and observe which is the right way to which a person should cleave? Rabbi Eliezer said, a good eye; Rabbi Joshua said, a good companion; Rabbi Yose said, a good neighbor; Rabbi Shimon said, foresight. Rabbi Elazar said, a good heart. He [Rabban Yohanan] said to them: I prefer the words of Elazar ben Arach, for in his words your words are included. (Pirkei Avot 2:9)
The heart is the most essential part of our identity, because it is the foundation upon which the rest of our Self rests. The quality of our heart determines the quality of how we show up in this world. It is the primordial source of our very being. But the heart is not actually about us; a good heart shows kindness and compassion to others. The deeper we pine into ourselves, the more we find the urge to connect with others.
Reflection:
Is a good heart something we are born with, or something we achieve? Can all people have a good heart?
Can people live decent lives without having the foundation of a good heart?
Lived practice
Judaism teaches that our hearts contain a battle between the יצר הטוב and יצר הרע. Today, try to notice the times that you follow the good inclination, even if it seems small or subtle. Think about the impact that can come of that decision.
