Embark on a transformative journey with us as we unlock the teachings of Ramchal in "Mesilat Yisharim," offering insights into living a life that aligns material pleasure with spiritual fulfillment. Discover the delicate art of using our world as more than a playground of indulgence, but as a sacred tool to enhance our connection with Hashem, the very source of ultimate joy. In this episode, we differentiate between self-gratification and divine service, through the practicalities of everyday life — from the food on our plates to the vehicles we drive. We grapple with the material world's allure and its potential to both ensnare and elevate. Breaking down the spiritual essence of mundane activities, we share how selecting apples or the act of blessing can transform routine into redemption. The stories we recount illustrate the profound impact our mindful actions can have, pulling back the curtain on the true power of intention in the seemingly insignificant choices we make each day.Join us as we critique the complexities of wealth, philanthropy, and the authenticity of our actions. Are we bogged down by the weight of our wealth, or are we leveraging it to uplift others? A light-hearted tale from an Israeli comedy sketch about a kidney donor's quest for recognition serves as a springboard into a deeper discussion about the nature of giving. This story, among others, underscores the episode's central theme: the quest for sincerity in our pursuit of spiritual growth, philanthropy, and the everyday interactions that define our journey towards a life of true purpose and connection.This weekly series is led by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, a journey through personal growth and character development guided by the teachings of Ramchal (Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzato) in the Mussar Masterpiece, Mesillas Yesharim (Ways of the Upright).In this series we follow the ArtScroll Mesorah: The Jaffa Family Edition of the Mesillas Yesharim - Way of the Upright.Available for purchase at: https://www.artscroll.com/Books/9781422614167.htmlRecorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio A to a live audience on January 14, 2019, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 6, 2024_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!

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