A while ago, some family members and I learned Chofetz Chaim: A Lesson a Day. This is a passage based on Sefer Shmiras Haloshon from day 107, that I flagged for myself as something to remember when I am unhappy with other people:
Scripture states: “‘I loved you,’ said Hashem” (Malachi 1:2); and “You are children to Hashem, your G-d” (Devarim 14:1). This is the intent of the phrase “I am Hashem” at the conclusion of the verse which prohibits harboring ill will and commands us to love our fellow Jew. Just as Hashem has a deep unwavering love for every Jew, so too must we develop within ourselves a deep unwavering love for each other.
On this earth, a person sees others clothed in their physical garb, and thus tends to look down upon them and focus on what he perceives as their faults. Hashem, however, sees the essential holiness of every Jewish soul, which, as often states in the holy Zohar, is awesome. Hashem’s love and regard for each soul is predicated on this knowledge, and thus is exceedingly great.
Wishing you a meaningful Shiva Asar b’Tamuz.
