Talks about the Steps of the Ladder, Part 59

What If We Feel That Everything Is Good?

If we feel that everything is good, that we are in spirituality, and that we are, as it is written, “full as a pomegranate,” it means that we are not investing enough effort, or that our efforts are only physical and not internal. This might indicate that our search has ceased and we seem disconnected from our friends, even though physically we might always be around them and working with them.

To truly connect with friends means seeing in them something that is lacking in ourselves. A person who feels that everything is good likely lacks the quality of envy. They are content with what they have. They operate solely on the “right line” and feel righteous and joyous. Such a state stunts growth and prevents the acquisition of new vessels. It is a real misfortune. While elevation of spirit is wonderful, it must always be balanced by the “left line.” Growth occurs when we gain new vessels and draw toward the right line.

What is the point of the right without the left? Without balance, growth is impossible. True growth derives from “flesh,” meaning vessels that require refinement. This refinement stems from envy, which is positive and beneficial envy that leads to wisdom. As it is written, “counters’ envy increases wisdom.” There can be no development without envy for the way a friend studies, how they write, what they do, and so on. This envy is neither competitive nor destructive. It does not seek to harm the friend or diminish their success. Instead, it expresses an aspiration to be like them, without taking away from them.

Related Material:
Talks about the Steps of the Ladder, Part 58
Talks about the Steps of the Ladder, Part 57
Talks about the Steps of the Ladder, Part 56

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