I first came across this teaching called ‘Two Pockets’ when I was in high school and it has been something that has stayed with me all this time. It invites us to hold two truths at once: that our lives matter beyond measure, and that we are but a small part of a vast and unfolding universe.
Everyone must have two pockets to reach into, according to their needs.
In their left, a slip of paper reads: For my sake was the world created.
In their right, a slip of paper reads: I am but dust and ashes.
Rabbi Simcha Bunam of Pzhysha (Poland, 1765–1827)
With one pocket, we are reminded that each of us is holy, created with a divine spark, worthy and deserving of infinite love and blessing. The world is ours! We feel as if we can accomplish anything! In that pocket, we find the courage to lean into hard conversations with friends and family, to dismantle the walls that divide us, and to build bridges of true connection.
With the other pocket, we remember that we are human — fragile, imperfect, made of dust, and returning to dust. There is so much that needs to change, and much we cannot change. With this pocket, we hold the truth that much of life is beyond our control, and the world will spin with or without us. We feel our smallness, and we know that in our smallness there is holiness.
This is a great teaching to use with our children. To always balance the belief that each of us is special with the humility that is required to be compassionate and loving towards others.
The upcoming holidays is a time to slow down, and depending on our needs, choose either the right or left pocket…or both! Do we need a good dose of humility or a reminder of how great we are? I hope these holidays provide time to rest, reflect and recharge.
- Ms Joanne Bacash