The Secret To Collaboration

As Jews, we have the privilege and responsibility to be a "light upon the nations". This historic role is increasingly important at a time of turmoil and confusion. Each and every one of us has a vital role to play in radiating this light of hope and opportunity to the world around us.

One of the greatest aspirations we have as humans is to reach a state of peace and harmony. The alignment of internal and external forces. In fact, the mystics explain that the divine light shines in an uninhibited way only when there is ’peace’. One could describe it as the oxygen required for spiritual energy to exist.

One of the biggest barriers to reaching a harmonious state with others is the difficulty we have in recognizing our own limits. The Lubavitcher Rebbe once said that a real "Chasid" is someone who recognizes and appreciates both his strengths and especially his weaknesses.

If we acknowledge only our strengths, not our weaknesses, then we diminish the vital role that others can play. This not only undermines a larger good that can only be achieved through broader collaboration, but also our individual ability to realize our own potential.

In the course of our forty-year journey through the desert to the Promised Land, the Jewish people were told to live and travel in prescribed formation. The twelve tribes formed four groups, each assigned a different position in relation to the tabernacle.

In order to move one step closer towards the promised land, each of us must acknowledge and accept both the position and role we were designed to play, as well as the unique and vital part played by others.

To attract the greatest blessings into our lives, we must learn both to play to our strengths as well as appreciate our weaknesses. This will enable others to compliment us, so that together we can achieve the greater good.