Have you ever pondered the grand design behind our fleeting existence and whether we're meant to chase after something beyond the daily grind? Join us as we tackle this existential quandary, exploring the intriguing idea that our lives are a quest not for temporary delights, but for the nourishment of our souls. We delve into the mystery of reincarnation, viewing our mortal coil as a signpost to a deeper calling and embracing life's flaws as the very opportunities to sculpt our spiritual selves.Our conversation then ventures into the heart's deepest voids, spaces that material abundance cannot fill. Drawing wisdom from a poignant Midrash, we liken the soul to a princess whose desires surpass the ordinary, discovering how our intrinsic longing for meaning propels us towards leaving a lasting imprint on the world. Through personal tales and vivid metaphors, we uncover why achievements and contributions might just be the soul's way of reaching for its ultimate fulfillment.In our final musings, we reflect on the delicate dance between purity and the pursuit of perfection. Challenging the idea that the soul arrives unblemished, we contemplate life's role in polishing its innate purity towards a state of spiritual refinement. It's here we emphasize how the physical realm serves as a crucible for our souls' aspirations, urging listeners to strike a harmonious balance between their corporeal and ethereal selves for a life truly lived with purpose. So, connect with us on this introspective journey, as we seek to unravel the enigma of our existence and the profound partnership of body and soul.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 28, 2019, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 28, 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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