This powerful mitzvah is the basis of our entire life, and especially the theme of the upcoming holidays. It asks that we Turn Around. Only takes a minute to take the first step. Wherever we are, whatever we are doing, stop and turn around in a new direction, towards the spirit that is waiting for you. Just as one mitzvah brings another, one step brings the next. Even one step in a new direction is a powerful message to yourself that you are ready and willing to life a life of true meaning.

It seems as though we are accosted with endless challenges all day long. Confusion develops along with a sense of helplessness. But the mitzvahs come to correct this instantly. They return us to true strength and understanding on how to proceed . This beautiful mitzvah shows us how to stay free of the forces of confusion by turning our attention and action to the divine.

As we prepare for the great journey of Passover from bondage to freedom this great mitzvah tells us to clean our house! Eliminate all the yeast! Whatever puffs us up and makes us proud. The journey to freedom comes as we let go of arrogance and hardening if the heart. Both our external and internal homes must be prepared.

It's very easy to find many things to complain about. The mind naturally looks for what's wrong, how we can fight it,  who is to blame! But this beautiful mitzvah asks us to do something different. It asks us to find something good about whatever happens and offer thanks. Sincere thanks. Our thanks includes everything. So much that we receive is taken for granted, a smile from a neighbor, a simple breakfast. Beyond that, stretch further and give thanks for what may seem like a painful event as well. See what you are learning from it, and the ultimate good it may bring into your life.

Surprisingly, it is an extremely important Mitzvah to pay your worker, (or for a service) on time. We are not aware of the need of another or how badly they may be hungering. They have earned their wages, given to you, and it is crucial not to leave them worrying, chasing you for what is theirs, the payment, feeling humiliated, losing faith. We are seldom aware of the needs of others and this mitzvah comes to wake us up, to protect the self respect and pride of others, to make sure their faith is not abused. As we keep our word impeccably, the world becomes a living temple.

 We have no idea why love leaves our relationships, things take a downwards turn, or why we get ill? But the power of our words is overwhelming. When we engage in gossip and slander, either by speaking or listening, we are tearing down the entire world. There are three who suffer greatly when gossip and slander go on, the one who speaks, the one who is spoken about and the one who listens.
Give up gossip and slander for one week and watch what happens!

"If you notice the animal of someone you dislike lying under its load, you must make every effort to help him." Usually we pass by those who have buckled (including their animals), especially if we dislike them.. Focused only on our own burdens, we are blind to the needs of others. This wonderful instruction asks us strongly to do the opposite. Stop in your tracks, extend yourself to them, and unload their burden. Don't place any extra burden on them either. Be there with open hands and heart. The power of this mitzvah, this incredible instruction, extends not only to others and yourself but can remedy the entire world.

Most of our actions and thoughts are directed to being happy, getting what we wants, Serving ourselves. When life doesn't go our way, anger and despair erupts quickly. But this mitzvah turns that all around. Each day, each action and interaction is dedicated to Serving the Divine, the One Who Sent Us. Whatever we encounter then, is a potential mitzvah. All we have to do is turn things around and ask How May I Serve You? With a sincere heart.

We think of life as sad, depressing, and spiritual practice as difficult as well. Some feel they are forced to reject  large aspects of what hey really like and  who they are are. This mitzvah says otherwise. It is a great practice to be happy and rejoice, especially during  difficult situations. We not only lift ourselves then, but all we engage with. We become able to see the beauty in all that is happening, and not get caught in the web of pain that keeps us frozen. What strength it takes to celebrate life, to dance and sing, to allow healing to stream in.

When we've been hurt or blind sighted, it's so easy to start doubting others, thinking the worst. All kinds of stories roll around in our mind about how awful this people are. We then tell the stories to others, intensifying the upset, creating chaos everywhere.

But as soon as we stop, and make the choice to Give That Person The Benefit of the Doubt, everything turns around. If need be we can even make up stories about what happened that put the other in a good light. We often make up stories to do the opposite, so whatever we do to turn this around, is wonderful. Not only does our own anger dissolve, but we invite the best to come forth in the other. We are looking at them through the eyes of love.