This is a great time to reflect on where we lack spiritually and reflect on at least one spiritual resolution that will benefit others.
It seems to be the accepted custom that as a new year arrives, we face the issues and challenges in our lives and set goals for changes. As an example, how many diets begin in the first week of January? How many gym memberships are sold?
Usually, people make changes because they feel they lack something. People who are perfectly OK with who they are and how they behave are not typically great candidates for change. But, then, who is truly OK with himself or herself?
I am reminded of what the great master Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi once said: "In material matters, one who is 'satisfied with his lot' is a quality of a person who, through service, will attain the highest levels. In spiritual matters, however, to be satisfied with one's lot is the worst deficiency, and leads, G-d forbid, to descent and falling."
We live in a world where the present year's hot item becomes next year's throwaway. When it comes to the vast number of toys that technology has made available to us, satisfaction is transient, at best. For example, owning a simple iPad is not the novelty it was just a year ago! Now, I am being asked, when will I upgrade to the iPad 2? Is that a New Year's resolution?
On the other hand, when we consider our "spiritual" reality, feeling the "lack" is a positive character trait. Consider some good questions that relate to "spiritual lack." What kind of person am I? Do I care about others as I care for myself? Am I truly empathetic? How am I doing in my relationships with my family? Am I investing enough time to upgrade the level of my spiritual life?
As we embark on a new year and we look to better our life, it's a great time to reflect on where we lack spiritually and reflect on at least one spiritual resolution that will benefit others. One act of goodness and kindness is worth more than 1,000 sighs (i.e. "I should have! I could have!" When you have an inspiration to do an act of goodness and kindness—just do it!).
Shabbat Shalom! Happy New Year!