To Be Free

As we revisit our salvation from Egyptian bondage on  Passover, we consider: 

Who is free? 

Those guys hanging out, having a "good time” or the aspiring concert pianist dedicating countless hours to practice?

We often think of freedom as the liberty to do whatever we want. 

Yet, Passover teaches that the carefree life is, ironically, not freedom at all. 

It’s a form of slavery, tethered to one’s impulses.

During their time in Egypt and after their exodus, the Jewish people ate matza—a symbol of both oppression and liberation. How can the same matza represent such opposites?

This paradox underscores that the Almighty’s redemption was not unconditional. It was responsive to their commitment to advance life ideals that align with His agenda.

This narrative offers a profound insight into the human condition: 

We all have our masters. 

No one is exempt, whether it be another person or our own impulses.

We face a choice of masters. We can submit to those who diminish our inherent nobility, serving their personal interests as mere slaves. 

Alternatively, we can align ourselves with a master who empowers our human nobility, advancing life ideals that resonate with our true inner selves as dignified servants.

This Passover, let us draw inspiration from our ancestors’ journey to achieve an additional level of freedom. 

Let’s choose our masters wisely so that we can live as servants of noble ideals.