At the time of Sara’s demise the Torah states (Bereishis 23:1): "And these are the years of the life of Sara." Our sages derive the following maxim from this verse: "The righteous give life to their days, whereas the days give life to the wicked."
The righteous realize the day is like a blank canvas; it is our choice - and opportunity - to fill it with beautiful colors and forms. They breathe life into the day by filling it with good deeds, Torah study, and bringing joy to others.
In this light, we can imagine Sara at nighttime planning her day. She would reflect on: How can I come closer to HaShem, and be more pleasing to Him. How can I put more love and quality into the act of kindness that I perform. How can I be more helpful and pleasant to my husband.
When the morning arrived, she would arise with inspiration and happiness to fill every part of her day with goodness. Accordingly, "she gave life to her day," meaning she utilized her time to achieve her spiritual goals. The positive deeds that she performed were the very soul of her day.
Conversely, the wicked take the day as it comes. They do not improve themselves nor do they add any good to it. Rather, "the days give life to the wicked," meaning, their days are venues for them to follow human nature and all of its entrapments.
A righteous person values every minute of the day. Even more, he realizes that every second is an opportunity to illuminate the world, rectify himself, and bestow goodness to others. May we utilize each moment of our lives so that we truly give "life to our days." (Based on the Ohr HaChaim HaKodesh)
Today’s Implement: Reflect on one way that you can improve the quality of your life.
Important Numbers
