Sometimes we're not actually "always" doing the thing we think we're always doing.
A rabbi complained to my brother that he was "always fundraising." When they broke it down, he wasn't constantly on calls or in meetings. He was constantly worrying about fundraising. Without a clear plan, worry rushed in to fill the space.
The solution was simple but profound: create a concrete plan. Focus on doing something about the problem rather than being consumed by it.
Sometimes we get stuck living inside labels like "anxious" or "overwhelmed." We identify ourselves as overwhelmed instead of seeing it as experiencing overwhelm—living in it as opposed to moving through it.
When you have a challenge, break it into manageable parts. Recognize that you are not your challenge, and then figure out if there is any ONE thing you can do to overcome that challenge. Do it.
This week's Torah portion describes a time when the Jewish people would "flee the sword, even though there is no pursuer." Although we as a nation have "fulfilled" this curse, sometimes we might still feel like we're running from invisible threats.
Turning the worry into tangible positive action might be one way to start healing from this paralyzing experience.
Good Shabbos,
Rabbi Kushi Schusterman
P.S. After the attack in DC, a few people reached out to ensure we are safe. I got a call from the Bel Air Chief of Police ensuring we are safe, noting they are increasing patrols and there are no known credible threats in our area. Some threats are real and we are very vigilant.
General Note: If you have a real issue, please consult with a professional. Today's message is about when we have an imagined pursuer that the Torah is talking about: "The sound of a rustling leaf will pursue them; they will flee as if fleeing the sword, and they will fall, even though there is no pursuer." — Leviticus 26:36