There is a powerful story told of the great Hassidic Rabbi Zusya of Hanipoli. When Rabbi Zusya was about to die, his students gathered around him. They saw Rabbi Zusya’s eyes break out into tears. “Our master,” they said, with deep concern, “Why are you crying? You have lived a good, pious life, and left many students and disciples. Soon you are going on to the next world. Why cry?” Rabbi Zusya responded, “I see what will happen when I enter the next world. Nobody will ask me, why was I not Moses? I am not expected to be Moses. Nobody will ask me, why was I not Rabbi Akiva? I am not expected to be Rabbi Akiva. They will ask me, why was I not Zusya? That is why I am crying. I am asking, why was I not Zusya?”
God does not compare us to other people. God only cares whether we make of our lives all that we can. In other words, were we the best we could be? Did we live up to our potential? Like Zusya, ultimately it is up to each of us to determine the answers for ourselves.
May this season of renewal bring to you the clarity of thought, meaningful reflection, and deeper understanding. May you be inscribed in the Book of Life for a sweet new year.
Support the place you love! Make a gift this year to celebrate 92NY.
Now through December 31, 2024, your gift will be DOUBLED — going twice as far in supporting 92NY and our global community.
Select donation amount:
Your donation will be automatically billed to your credit card each month. At the close of each year, you will receive a letter recording your 92Y gifts for tax purposes. You may change or cancel your payments at any time.