FINDING YOUR FREEDOM
RABBI EZRA MAX
DO YOU EVER FEEL LIKE YOU’RE LIVING IN BONDAGE — GOING THROUGH THE MOTIONS OF LIFE, BUT FEELING UNFULFILLED AND PURPOSELESS? IT’S TIME TO BREAK FREE AND FIND TRUE FREEDOM IN CONNECTION AND SPIRITUALITY.
Many people spend their days working tirelessly, chasing after material possessions or simply passing the time without a sense of direction. Perhaps, there is a better way to live. Please ask yourself this question honestly and without judgment. Why are you working so hard? Is it to distract, stay busy, get more stuff, or is there a deeper purpose that inspires you?
Purposeless work can feel like slavery, but work with a clear purpose and mission can be empowering and fulfilling. As I learned while running an ambulance company, the volunteers donated their time because they believed in the mission and valued the culture within the organization. They found a sense of purpose, respect and belonging that they didn’t experience at their paid jobs. Hence, they were willing to do the same work for free.
Human beings have the freedom of choice. Yet, too many choices can be overwhelming. This is true in business and at home. Design constraints or boundaries, help speed up the creative process and lead to productivity. Embracing constraints helps us be our best selves and enhance our lives. Your family, community and mitzvot provide such constraints, allowing you to expand your individuality while grounding you in connection and belonging.
Despite our hyper-connected world, people are more miserable than ever, and suffering in a profound sense of loneliness. Social media and technology can’t replace genuine human connection with family, friends, and community. We must free ourselves from the slavery of social media, algorithms, and artificial intelligence by connecting authentically within ourselves and with other real people.
As Jews, we understand the power of constraints and boundaries. Hashem freed us from slavery in Mitzrayim, chose us as His nation, and we accepted the “yolk of Heaven.” We are eternally grateful and indebted to the Almighty. Leaning into this connection and living our lives within the confines of Torah true freedom, leads to a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment. Without this connection, we are lost, figuratively and literally. This might very likely be why good people behave like addicts, without control or direction. Don’t let this be you.
This Passover, release the habits, actions, and beliefs that hold you back from realizing your potential. Declare your freedom to live your best lives, using your gifts, talents, and abilities to focus on your G-d given mission. Let us be unified as one nation, with one heart, dedicated to living our lives in service to and fulfillment of Torah ideals. This is true freedom from bondage into bonding — shifting yourself, from slavery of the spirit to the freedom of spirituality.
As you celebrate Passover, please remember the power of freedom in connection, and the importance of purpose and connection with yourself, your family, community and Hashem. Have a kosher and happy Passover.
Rabbi Ezra Max, PCC, MHMP, Xchange Guide & Creator of “The Max Method” assists businesses and professionals deal with stress and achieve success. Rabbi Max has witnessed 20 years of results helping executives, parents and teens overcome struggles, improve communication and thrive. He lives in New York with his wife and five children.
