Question: If one constantly practices love for one’s neighbor, can it become a habit?
Answer: It all depends on the definition of what is considered caring for one’s neighbor? If it pays well, then why not? I am ready to work for a reward. I can even care for others voluntarily if I receive some benefit from it, not necessarily monetarily, but in some other way like respect. Self-respect also works; even if no one knows about my “kindness,” such modesty can give rise to even greater pride.
One must remember: True analysis is carried out by the light that returns to the source. If I start acting on my own judgment, a thousand opportunities to deviate from the path will open before me.
At one time, Abraham gave such gifts to some of his students: “If you wish, please, plant love without the reforming light. Be sweet children, treat each other well, and good bye.” However, the true property of mercy (Hesed) from the spiritual Sefirot can be borne only by a small group, which Abraham took with him.
We must understand that if we do want to move forward, it should not be by ourselves, and not according to our own reasoning. It is the light that returns to the source (reforming light) that must reveal our path each time. I take a step forward only after it has shown me the way, whether by illuminating it or, on the contrary, by darkening it. That no longer matters. The main thing is not to act alone by following my own logic.
Question: Maybe not alone, but together, in a group, can we “get addicted” to caring for our friends?
Answer: In a proper group this can never happen. On the contrary, you will see that after each ascent comes an even greater descent. What kind of habit can there be? The “turbulence” that awaits you on the path will make you entirely forget yesterday because of the current troubles.
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From the Daily Kabbalah Lesson 10/21/12, Writings of Baal HaSulam “Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah]”
Related Material:
Love Cannot Become A Habit
From Hatred To Love
Should I Love Others Or Care For Them?
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Question: Baal HaSulam writes that there are three preceding stages in which the desire to bestow prevails over the weak desire to receive. Does this mean that at a certain stage both the desire to bestow and the desire to receive exist simultaneously? How can that be at the same time?
