Live to Give: How Chesed Can Transform Your Life Today

Live to Give: How Chesed Can Transform Your Life Today

by Sharon Bezalel on Jul 07, 2025
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Are You Living to Get, or Living to Give?

Picture this: You've just finished scrolling through your social feed. Another hour has gone by. Did you feel more connected—or just more caught up in comparison? What if one small question could transform not only your day, but the world around you?

Turning Outward: The Secret of True Connection

In our fast-paced, selfie-filled world, it's easy to fall into the 'me-first' mindset. Yet, research in psychology tells us a different story about happiness. Studies show that people who focus on giving—whether time, attention, or acts of kindness—report greater life satisfaction than those who merely focus on their own needs. Giving is good for the giver!

Judaism knew this secret long before scientists caught up. The Torah teaches: "Love your neighbor as yourself." Our Sages call this a foundational principle—ahavat chesed, the love of kindness.

The Chesed Revolution: Spotting Opportunity Everywhere

Let's make this practical. Imagine the ripple effect if you paused before every encounter and asked, "What can I do for this person?" A high school freshman once shared how a simple Torah Live video about Rivka became a conversation-starter that transformed a boring bar mitzvah party into a moment of real connection. That's the power of chesed—it takes ordinary life and makes it extraordinary.

From Theory to Practice: Simple Steps Anyone Can Try

  • The "Chesed Check-In" Habit: Before meeting someone, take 10 seconds to ask, "How can I help them today?" Making this a routine shifts your entire perspective.
  • Start Small, Think Big: Whether it's returning a neighbor's dish or carrying a heavy bag for someone, small acts set big things in motion.
  • Challenge Yourself: Can you perform three acts of kindness for strangers in one week? Track how it makes you feel. (Bonus: Get friends or family on board—it's contagious!)

What Does the Torah Say—And Why Does It Matter?

Our forefather Avraham is depicted as a giant of chesed; his tent was open on all sides, ready to welcome anyone. Today, 'opening our tent' might mean including someone new in a conversation or lending an empathetic ear. Jewish tradition teaches that giving isn't reserved for the righteous—it's a superpower everyone can access.

Keep the Momentum Going (and Have Fun!)

Remember, acts of kindness aren't just for others. They make us happier, healthier, and more fulfilled—confirmed by both the Torah and science! Imagine what our communities would look like if we all took the 'Live to Give' revolution to heart.

Ready to Join the Chesed Adventure?

Why not take the next step? Torah Live is packed with free, 100% clean, 100% fun videos, challenges, and games that will inspire you and supercharge your journey of giving. Sign up now at TorahLive.com/signup and start living to give—today!

Imagine if every scroll, every click, and every hello was a new chance to share, uplift, and spark light. What will your next act of kindness be?

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