Wildfires illustrate difference between spiritual and physical

By Rabbi Rafi Andrusier

SAN DIEGO –Last week, we took the opportunity, after my sister in law’s wedding and before school begins, to go away as a family. We took a drive to northern California and spent some time with family there.

Much of the trip revolved around fires raging all around the state. First, driving through Angeles National Forest, north of LA, we watched as the sky above Interstate 5 turned into a gloomy orange from the smoke. The following day we were going to check out some redwoods in Sonoma when we realized that it was a bit too close for comfort (that area is now under mandatory evacuation) and we promptly made a U-turn.

Even while back in Petaluma, our family experienced life on the wild side, or better worded: wild-fire side. We awoke to find ashes on the car and all windows in the house closed to protect from the low air quality.

As we kept a watchful eye as the Lightning Complex Fires continued to spread, we tried to look at the events around us to see what we could learn to become better people. We looked at the difference between the physical and spiritual.

When you use something physical, it is diminished. The more money you spend, the less you have. The more gas you use, the emptier your tank becomes. The more food you eat the more you need to restock your pantry.

But spiritual things increase with use. If I use my wisdom to teach, the student learns, and I come out smarter for it. If I share my love with another, I become more loving, not less. When I give a spiritual gift, the recipient gains, and I lose nothing.

There is no better illustration of this than a fire. As it spreads, it becomes hotter and stronger (and unfortunately, more destructive).

We sometimes worry that we may stretch ourselves too thin. In matters of spirit, it isn’t true. The more goodness we spread the more goodness we have. By making a new friend you become a better friend to your old friends. By having another child you open a new corridor of love in your heart that your other children benefit from too. By teaching more students you become wiser. And by spending time on meaningful pursuits, you realize how precious each day is, and use your time better.

*
Rabbi Rafi Andrusier is spiritual leader of Chabad of East County.