There is a saying in Yiddish, “Az gut iz gut, iz beser nisht beser?!” This translates to, “If good is good, is better not better?”
Put simply, this is a reminder to always strive for better, never to suffice with what we have accomplished. The Rebbe taught that in material matters we should always be satisfied with our lot. But when it comes to our spiritual journey, being satisfied is a shortcoming. It’s a fault to be strictly avoided.
In the twenty-first century it might be tempting to fall into a state of complacency. Relative to historic terms, we Jews are safe and successful. We have an identity and are accepted by Western society. We are comfortable and aren’t worrying about our government’s oppression.
The same can be said regarding our spiritual status. Although we have a lot to improve, there are endless opportunities to connect with our faith spiritually. Countless yeshivas and trips to Israel are available. Through the internet, Torah classes and mentoring are at our fingertips.
Never in history have we had so much opportunity.
It’s tempting to be satisfied with the status-quo.
However, this week’s parsha teaches us not to be content. G-d tells the Jewish people in Parshat Devarim, “Your stay at this mountain has been plenty for you. Turn away and journey… Go in and possess the land that G-d promised to your fathers.”
The Jewish people were camping at Sinai for 11 months. It was a spiritually uplifting period. They had received the Torah, studied it and connected with the very Presence of Hashem.
Nevertheless, G-d’s desire for them to proceed to the Promised Land was so great that He regarded any additional time spent at Sinai as excessive.
As we prepare for Tisha B’Av, let us remember that we are in exile. Life may seem good at times – both materially and spiritually. But, it’s nowhere near where it should be. We must always strive for greater heights.
Let us continue working toward that great era when war and famine will be eradicated; when the knowledge of G-d will be the primary pursuit of mankind; when kindness and compassion will reign supreme; and when G-dliness will be visible to our very eyes.
Until then, our work is not done.
May it be speedily in our days.