“Rebbe, when does one decide if one has enough?”
This question was posed to the Rebbe by a successful businessman. “We’ve sold out our business, we have an offer now that they want to sell it back to us, if we want,” the individual explained. And then he continued, “And I’m trying to understand: When should one feel he has enough for himself and his family.”
The Rebbe’s answer surprised him, “If you have experience in business, you must use it. If it is better to use it in the same business, or only in a new business, it depends on the conditions of the market, and it depends on the character of the person.”
The conversation continued a little longer and the man left, his perception of the world changed forever.
While it might seem like a brief conversation, almost in passing, the profundity of the message cannot be overemphasized.
As we wrap up Chanukah, with its emphasis on kindling the Menorah and its representation of adding light. Most people consider the message to be one of adding in matters of holiness and spirituality - which it certainly is.
However, that’s not the entire story.
Each and every one of us has something to contribute. If our life has provided us with certain skills or experiences, we have a responsibility to use those in a positive manner.
While it may be tempting to retire and pursue our personal favorite pastimes; as long as we are alive we have the responsibility - to ourselves and to the world - to continue sharing what we have with others and the world at large.
In other words, our life matters - no matter who you are or what you do. You have a purpose and mission.
During these last few hours of Chanukah, let’s consider how we can bring what we have to better the world.