5 January 2026 · A sentence from the teachings of Rav Kook
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The Desired and the Actual
„Sometimes, from the greatness of the desire to do good, when the idea flashes of how far one's ability does not correspond with the wish, the heart fills with fear and despair, and from this is born a disturbance to the soul's tranquility and to its joy, which are the foundations of all good traits and of all wisdom. Therefore one must always strengthen oneself to rejoice in the desire for good, and to use that very inclination of sadness over the lack of ability to increase the ability according to its measure and to match it with its actualization.”From Rishon LeYafo 78
We seek to do good, as part of our being human, and sometimes it becomes clear to us that alongside the broad will, we lack the ability. In that moment, fear and despair are born that undermine the soul's tranquility and joy. We must rejoice that the heart asks for more than reality yet permits. To understand that the will itself is truth, and it is a foundation from which one can grow. To build tools, to advance step by step, and thereby to build new capabilities.
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From the community archive of Mishpetei HaRav Kook — studying Rav Kook's teachings since 2011.