There is a story about the Baal Shem Tov that is still told throughout the world today. The Jews living in a community in Russian or Poland were afraid of a progrom, a campaign of "ethnic cleansing." They went to the Baal Shem Tov for help. They said, "Pray for us, we are in great danger. They want to kill us all."
The Baal Shem Tov went into the forest, kindled a light, and said a special prayer. A miracle took place, and the community was saved. Even as this was happening, however, the Baal Shem Tov reminded the community that a time would come when he would no longer be there. They would have to learn to help themselves.
They helped themselves with the simplest tool they knew - singing. Sung in private or together with others, a simple melody has enormous power to bring peace of mind. When you are praising God in melody, you are joyous and at peace. Negative thoughts cannot enter your mind.
So learn to sing, or at least dance!
Our quest in this life is to search for a reunion with ourpotential for good health and healing. This quest includes steering clear of despair, and transforming thoughts that distract us from the love of the Creator into a joy of life. This is how inner wholeness and health is best attained.
Always remember that life resembles a tree. A tree has both straight and crooked branches. The symmetry of the tree, however, is perfect. Life is balanced like a tree.
It is beautiful and perfect despite the struggles, difficulties, and sorrows that are part of it. So taste the Tree of Life, my friends. dare to taste the Tree and affirm it. It is good to be alive. I am happy and joyous to be alive.
May the light usher in a better world for all humankind.
