BS’D
As a result of inner anger and the disappointment we feel in Hashem we tend to fall into a state of sadness; we begin to study Torah and perform mitzvot with a lack of joy. The AriZal makes a strong statement regarding this broken state and teaches that happiness is the central point of Torah living.
Living with discontent causes us to perform mitzvot with a heavy heart; as though it is a great burden and sacrifice. The Torah teaches that Hashem wants our heart; our emotional bond and intent. We cannot bury our true feelings of resentment since Hashem knows our innards; all is known before Him. In addition there is a deep Kabbalistic teaching that brings down that distance causes Hashem’s blessings to come down in the form of din since we are not properly aligned with Hashem’s will and cannot receive His bountiful goodness in its correct form.
Children are naturally happy as they feel secure and taken care over by their parents. If we could adapt this ‘childish’ viewpoint and constantly remind ourselves that Hashem has never and will never abandon us, we will find genuine lasting happiness. Nonetheless, we are emotional beings and do experience various ‘highs’ and ‘lows’ in life which causes fluctuations of the spirit. Therefore it is vital not to ‘ignore’ Hashem. Marital peace is not achieved by overlooking one another and refusing to talk about our painful feelings. Hashem endlessly takes care of us. The path to internal healing and spiritual perfection is internalizing the message of Hashem’s love and care day in and day out.
As negative feelings mount the distance to Hashem widens. Hashem is our shadow. As we respond to Him He in turn reacts back. Hence, it is essential to be true with ourselves, talk with honesty to Hashem and use the mode of communication called Tefillah as an opportunity to ‘clear the air’ and make peace with our Creator. This is a fundamental stepping stone to emuna and Tefillah.
