We are such powerful beings, and yet we struggle? Why do we doubt ourselves and undervalue our truth? Why do we allow others to weaken our confidence and diminish our potential?
The answer lies in this week's Torah portion, Balak, which introduces us to one of the most unusual and powerful stories in the Torah: a talking donkey, a wicked prophet, and a reluctant blessing. At the center of it all is Bilam, a man known for his spiritual sensitivity, yet equally known for his moral corruption. Despite his desire to curse the Jewish people, Bilam is forced to admit a simple but profound truth: "Whatever word G-d puts in my mouth, that shall I speak."
Even Bilam, as self-serving and flawed as he was, knew that there are moments when we are not in control of our words—when the truth comes through us, and not from us. In these moments, we are vessels, and the words we speak belong to G-d. If Bilam, an enemy of the Jewish people, could recognize that truth, how much more so should we, people striving to live with meaning and values, learn to trust the voice of our soul and speak loudly and confidently from that place of inner G-dliness.
It's one thing to listen to the G-dly voice inside of you, but what about when it comes from someone else? The Torah portion continues, telling us that when Bilam refuses to listen, it's his donkey who ends up giving him the message. The donkey sees the angel standing in the way before Bilam does, and when he is beaten for trying to avoid danger, G-d opens his mouth and he speaks. Yes, G-d's voice can come to us even through a donkey.
The message here is unmistakable: we must not only learn to speak the truth that lives within our soul, but we must also train ourselves to listen for truth even when it comes from unexpected places. Sometimes G-d speaks to us through our children, our critics, or people we don't fully respect. Sometimes the messenger may seem foolish, irritating, or downright stubborn, but the truth they carry is still divine.
Our challenge is twofold. First, to speak boldly and honestly when we feel the fire of truth in our soul. Second, to listen humbly and openly, even when the voice we're hearing seems unworthy or strange. After all, if G-d can speak through Bilam and a donkey, G-d can speak through anyone, including us.
Let's honor the G-dly voice within ourselves, and the one hidden within others, so we can fully fulfill our mission and bring the healing and harmony of Moshiach to our world.
ב"ה