Justice, truth, and peace. These are the three attributes that our sages hold to sustain us. In an age where it seems like none of that exists, we are obligated that much more to cling to them.

No one individual is going to save the world by pursuing truth and justice and peace but if each one of us can practice them within ourselves, within our relationships, then perhaps we can sustain the small amount of space that we take up.

With everything going on in our country (and the world) it’s hard not to become disheartened. It’s hard to not throw our hands up and say “I give up.” After all, does what I do actually make a difference? The answer is yes. We live in the world that each one of us creates around us. We don’t have to save the world, but we can certainly make the world in which we live in a world that we actually want to live in.

Justice, truth, and peace. Stand up for every injustice around you. As John Lewis (z’l) said, “don’t be afraid to get into good trouble.” This means wherever you see injustice, you do your part to correct it. Speak and live in truth. Not just the truth you tell others but the truth that lies within you. Don’t bury your head in the sand. Have the courage to face who you are as well as your circumstances. And in every place you can, whether within you, in your relationships, and in every interaction you have, pursue peace.

If you remember anything from my message today, remember this: all that you seek for the world begins with you. If you truly seek it you will begin to practice it. Focus on justice, and truth, and peace. I know what you may be thinking, what about love? You don’t have to pursue love. It’s already there. It really is.

Pay attention today to what role you play in the three attributes that sustain us.

And if I haven’t said it enough, I love you!

Rabbi Gabi