Question: How should we assess our progress in a group: by the extent to which hatred is revealed among us or by the effort we collectively make in the group?

Answer: Both. We should assess our progress by the revealed hatred and by how we overcome it. If significant hatred is revealed between you and the group is unable to overcome it, that is still a substantial achievement. However, this does not guarantee anything for the future. In spirituality, there is no favoritism. Without effort, we cannot expect results.

That is why we see that many groups have fallen apart. They thought, “We’ve done enough. Why do we need to keep making efforts? Everything will come on its own from here.” But nothing comes on its own. At every stage, we need to rethink, reformat, and move forward.

Moreover, each stage is opposite to the previous one according to the law of “negation of negation.” The next step is opposite to the previous one; it is above it and contrary to it. What seemed one way to me in the previous state no longer seems that way because my achievement at the previous degree, which was considered holiness (Kedusha), becomes egoistic and unacceptable at the next degree and is called Klipa—an impure desire.

Therefore, I cannot use my previous clarifications, achievements, or knowledge for the new degree. Thus, the ascent in spirituality always happens with closed eyes, disregarding anything I once knew, felt, or determined. Everything must be absolutely new. That is why it is said: Everything should always appear as new in your eyes.
[332942]
From the Daily Kabbalah Lesson 2/24/20, “Preparation for the Convention”

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