Take this Job and (Raise it Up)

by Devora Gila Berkowitz


Parshat Vayeitzei


Can you relate?


Yaakov has a tough work relationship with Laban, his deceitful employer. Yet despite his challenging work environment, Yaakov succeeds both materially and spiritually. His sterling character sets an eternal standard from which we learn about an employee's responsibility to his employer. (Artscroll commentary on Bereshit 30:35-36.)

Have you ever felt cheated by an employer? Which of your inner strengths did this situation reveal? Ultimately, who is our most important Employer? And what are our responsibilities to Him, despite what life throws at us? Feel free to add your comments below.

The Power of Love

by Devora Gila Berkowitz

Parshat Vayeitzei

Time flies when you're having fun.

Or when you're in love, as Yaakov is with Rachel (Mizrachi on Bereshit 29:20).

The seven years he worked in order to marry her "seemed to him a few days because of his love for her."

So the next time you're in a tough situation and time seems to stand painfully still, try tapping into the great love in your heart and watch your reality shift.

The Power of Inspiration

by Devora Gila Berkowitz

Parshat Vayeitzei

Have you ever received a burst of inspiration?

Did you feel that you could do anything?

This is the sense Yaakov experiences when he sees Rachel for the first time. His emotions are powerful enough to enable him to roll a heavy stone off the mouth of a well (Bereshit 29:10).


What large challenge lies in front of you now?

What can you look to for inspiration in order to overcome it?

Ladder of Life

by Devora Gila Berkowitz

Parshat Vayeitzei

Where are you on the Ladder of Life?

Some of us prefer having our feet on the ground, others enjoy being more heavenbound.

Take a few moments to celebrate wherever you are on the ladder of life today.