No Time Like Now

In the Torah portion of Vayeira¹, three angels visit Abraham. Each one has a specific mission.  Rabbi Efrem Goldberg cites Rav Shmuel Berenbaum, in Tiferes Shmuel, that we are taught this quality of the angels not for us to know about angels, but rather as an instruction for how we are to live. We should follow the angels’ example of being focused, mindful, and fully present during the performance of whichever mitzvah we are currently involved in. To accomplish anything, we need focus and attention. If we multitask, focusing our attention on two different tasks simultaneously, then we are doing neither of them properly. 
 
Unfortunately, while many of us perform a specific act, we simultaneously contemplate an endless array  of pending tasks. For example, all too often while reciting the morning prayers we’re thinking about the issues we need to address when we arrive at work. Moreover, the Evil Inclination is adept at tempting us with a wide variety of distractions that waste time and further erode our capacity to function. 
 
The Lubavitch Rebbe says that we cannot make the day one single second longer. Every moment we need to focus completely on the matter at hand. We should regard tasks from the past or the future as nonexistent. The essence of life is in small segments of time. By focusing all our mental, emotional, and physical resources on that moment’s mission, we will make the most of this precious gift of time. 

This concept makes a lot of sense, yet most of us find it highly challenging. What are some suggestions  that we can try to make progress in this area? Here are some options to consider: 
 

Develop a task list and put Hashem in the picture 

Prepare a daily list of tasks and objectives, both personal and professional. Think about how each one can contribute to your service to Hashem.  Every task, no matter how mundane, can be connected to Divine service. For example, reviewing your emails when you get to the office is needed in order to perform your duties, earn a living, and enable you to support your family and contribute to charity. 

 

This technique will elevate and sanctify commonplace tasks. The King loves you and cares about you. He is paying close attention to everything you say and do. When you contemplate this regularly, you will focus more intensely on each detail and avoid getting sidetracked.

 

As you complete an individual task, don’t just check it or cross it off the list. Instead, label it with a “BH,” Baruch Hashem, thanking the Creator for His indispensable help. 

Travel with Hashem 

Before embarking on a trip, even a short one in your neighborhood, ask Hashem to get you there safely. Rabbi Arush recommends saying the “Wayfarer’s Prayer” without saying G-d’s name at the end. That is, you say the entire prayer normally and simply end with “Baruch shomea tefilla” instead of the full blessing. Contemplate how each trip’s objective can be part of your service to Hashem and  thereby  transform it into a mitzva activity. When you arrive safely, thank Hashem and set aside a coin for charity. This will prevent you from taking safe and successful trips for granted and will make each journey special and meaningful. Hashem will be with you for the duration of the trip. Over time, this practice will help you feel loved, cared for, watched over, and protected. 

Take a deep breath, stop, think, and pray 

There is no greater way to focus on the present than to control your breath. Take a deep breath and stop  to feel the presence of Hashem up close and personal. Mobilize all your resources before each task. 
 
In your daily personal prayer sessions, allocate time to ask Hashem to help you focus on each moment and maximize the potential within each segment of time. 
 

Progress vs. Perfection

Don’t get discouraged when you go off the rails. Each day is a new life and a new beginning. Moreover, Rebbe Nachman teaches that within each day we can make many new beginnings.²  

 

Perfection is an unattainable goal. We are looking for momentum – gradual and continuous progress. It’s difficult to evaluate ourselves and measure our daily progress precisely. Nevertheless, be assured that if we are determined and work continuously to improve, while asking Hashem for help, we will see long-term results. We’ll accomplish more each day and joyously experience a closer relationship with the Almighty. 

Editor’s Notes: 

¹ Sefer Bereishit (Genesis) 18:1-22 

² Shivchei HaRan #6, Sichot HaRan #48, and others