"Blessed are You, Adonai, who provides for all my needs" (Morning Blessings)
This is one of the hardest prayers for me to live! While I know that all my needs are provided for, I mix up my wants with my needs. This causes me great fear and I become reactive and controlling. As I immerse myself in this Blessing, I am reminded of Rabbi Heschel's teaching about authentic needs and inauthentic needs. It also reminds me to be grateful for what I have and stay out of the fear of loss. This Blessing reminds me/teaches me that my needs are taken care of, as long as I don't give them away. I give them away through fear and greed. Today, I will remember that my needs are provided for and my obligation is to honor them, use them and be grateful for this love from God.
1) How am I confusing needs with wants?
2) When do my fears overcome my gratitudes?
3) What do I need to do to honor this love from God and others?