Dependence

We are all dependent to some extent.

I myself am very independent-minded, but that only makes me realize how dependent I really am. On family, the government, friends, my community (shidduchim), etc. There are certain things which even if they are unpleasant, I have to go through with them at this time for various reasons, but where I can control it – why shouldn’t I? Why do I always go on trips with friends or family? Yes, it’s a lot of fun and a better experience when sharing with others, but that’s only if it isn’t always like that. Therefore, I’ve decided to stop being such a wussy and go away for a Shabbos without dragging anyone along. Eventually, I want to go on a long vacation without anyone I know.

And talking of shaking things up a bit, I want to start going on trips without a camera just to fully experience things. I want to start going on unplanned, unscheduled excursions. I want to start chatting it up with random people on trains and in the street. I want to start trying new foods and eating things that I’ve decided I don’t like years ago. I want to laugh uncontrollably and then sob uncontrollably. I want to just start dancing in the streets or at least skipping. I want to go to a random acquaintance and explain how much of an impact they have on my (and others’) life. I want to approach a close friend in the streets and shout “I love you!” I want to just take a break from life for a week; no talking to anyone I know or accomplishing anything school-related. I want to sing at a strangers Shabbos-seuda.

But will I?



“Like the body that is made up of different limbs and organs, all moral creatures must depend on each other to exist.”