Most of us manage to accomplish most of our tasks, most of the time.
We pretty much complete our work assignment before the deadline. We’remostly there for our kids when they need us. and settle for a few Jewish experiences over the year.
But is it OK to settle for 'just OK'?!
I read a sports column earlier this week, preparing Nats fans for the likely scenario that the Nationals will not become the World Series Champions. It’s message: 'Sports is not about the destination, but the Journey', after all, even making it to the World series under this year’s circumstances was quite an achievement, and fans should be proud.
Clearly, the Nationals players didn't buy that narrative. They didn't just #StayInTheFight. They #FinishedTheFight.
In this week's Torah portion we observe the difference between those who enjoy real success, ad those who just 'get by'.
Terach, the father of Abraham, took hisfamily and "traveled from Ur Kasdim to go to Canaan, and they came to Charan and stayed there." He realized the journey was a challenge, and figured he'll settle for less. 'Charan is ok too, I guess’.
Contrast that to the trip Terach’s son Abraham takes. G-d appears to him once, tells him to leave Charan and in spite of innumerable difficulties and adventures on the way, he makes it all the way to Israel.
And that’s why the whole world knows aboutAbraham, while Terach’s name is largely forgotten. Terach was too easily distracted and easily gave up on his journey to the Promised Land, while his son persevered until his final destination.
Invest some more effort in your work assignment and it will truly stand-out. Give your child that extra attention in helping them through a problem you could have overlooked, and you will help them truly shine. Take your Jewish involvement to the next level, not just settling for the status quo, and you will feel deeper fulfillment.
We are Abraham's descendants. We should not settle for half journey. Take it to the end, and #FinishTheFight!