Dear friend,
Chassidic thought teaches that every aspect of life, even vacationing, is holy and part of our overall life's mission.
So here is the question: Do we work to vacation or vacation to work?
Do we work hard in order to finally arrive at the long anticipated vacation, or do we go on that well deserved vacation in order to refresh so we can come back and be more productive at work?
Perhaps contrary to conventional thinking, I'd say it's the latter for sure.
Did you ever wonder why we sometimes spend weeks or months planning the ideal vacation, only to experience complete let-down one or two days into the much anticipated trip, itching to get back to work? It's because at our core, humans have a need to be productive, to make a difference. Whatever one's occupation, it's not just a means to pay the bills. Our work is part of our soul's mission to make our unique contribution to G-d's wonderful world.
So yes, a relaxing respite from time to time is extremely important, but not as an end in itself, rather because it serves an important purpose in recharging our mental battery so that we can get back to work. Thus an occasional vacation can be more than simply fun and relaxing but actually holy and meaningful.
So friends, during these beautiful summer weeks, if you have a chance to get away and relax a bit, enjoy! Then come home and get back to work. There's lots to do.
Shabbat Shalom!
Rabbi Fishel & Ettie zaklos