How do we bring equality to our fractured world? In a society that seeks to apply its various metrics to the populace, how do we ensure everyone counts equally in our community?
The answer lies in this week's Torah portion Naso. The portion continues examining the census of the Levites, but it uses a peculiar word to say "count" Naso. Naso literally means to lift, so what connection does it have to the counting theme? The answer tells us all we need to know about civilization. Each person sees themselves in a certain way; better or worse, we're all an extension of our own self-image. Often, life has a way of pulling us down. As much as we try, the everyday travails of life can drain us of our energy and leave us demoralized about the future. How do we break this downward spiral? We need a friend to reach out and raise us up by adjusting our perspective and our point of view. A good friend can elevate us by reminding us of our inherent worth and G-d-given talents. When we reframe our lives, we begin to recognize our amazing limitless potential, and then we can start actualizing it.
If you want to bring equality to the world, start by recognizing your amazing potential and then helping others find it within themselves. Sometimes, it's hard to see it in yourself; if that's the case, focus on raising up your fellow human, and the feeling of helping others will restore your faith in yourself. Either way, take action and rise up. It's time we started viewing life from a higher plane.
Mission: This week, take a minute to help others see their full potential, and begin to see your own potential dramatically increase.