Thursday, May 2, 2013

Sefiras Haomer- Day 30

Day 30

Gevurah Shebehod – Discipline in consistency

Joke: An older Jewish couple was starting on a vacation, but it soon became obvious that their habit of arguing over everything was not taking a break. ‘It’s “Hawaii”, I’m telling you!’ she shouted. ‘Oy! I never KNEW someone so stubborn! It’s pronounced “Havaii”!’ he replied. And so it went all the way to the airport and for the long flight. As they got off the airplane, the husband abruptly stopped his wife and turned to a man standing at the airport gate. ‘Now that we’re on the island, you can settle an argument between my wife and I. Is this Hawaii or Havaii?’ The man smiled and said, ‘This is Havaii.’ ‘Ha!’ the husband said, turning to his wife. ‘See, didn't I tell you never to argue with me? I’m always right!’ As they began to walk away, he turned and gave the man a hearty ‘Thank you!’ The man responded: ‘You’re velcome!’

When Steve Jobs was asked what his ultimate success was, he responded: It was the many projects I declined.

To be consistent, to maintain your balance, you must be disciplined and strong-minded within yourself. You have to be able to tell yourself “no”; you need to challenge yourself, your habits, instincts and cravings, if you want to persevere.

Some of us have the power to persevere, but we lack the discipline and strength needed to say “no” to our destructive patterns. As a result, we pull the rug out from under our own feet. Rigidity is an important ingredient in a successful and meaningful life.




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