The Power to Choose: Embracing Free Will on the Journey of Life

Have you ever stood at a crossroads, maybe even on a regular Tuesday morning, wondering if you should stick with your usual routine or try something that feels a bit challenging—like putting your phone down to help a friend, or taking a few extra minutes to really listen to someone who needs you? These moments are far more powerful than they seem. Every day, we’re faced with decisions, big and small, and each choice we make shapes who we become.

Our lives are filled with opportunities to make choices that matter. But with choice comes uncertainty—and sometimes a little anxiety. What if I mess up? What if I choose wrong? Psychology tells us that having choices is actually essential for growth—even if it’s sometimes overwhelming. In fact, research shows we thrive when we know our choices are meaningful.

Jewish wisdom takes this even further. The Torah introduces us to the concept of bechira chofshis—free will. Unlike a robot programmed to perform a task, we’re entrusted with the incredible gift of choosing between right and wrong. And it’s in this space, between knowing and doing, that the best version of ourselves takes shape.

Imagine you’re at school, and you spot a friend being left out. You could ignore it and go your own way—or you could step in, offer a smile, and change someone's day. That’s the Yetzer Hatov (good inclination) and Yetzer Hara (bad inclination) tugging at you, each pitching a different direction. The Torah Live video about Josh’s Bar Mitzvah shows how he wrestles with these very choices, learning that every decision is an opportunity to become stronger, kinder, and closer to Hashem.

It can feel intense, right? But here’s something both psychology and Torah agree on: Struggle means you’re growing. The struggle itself is a sign you want to do the right thing. The sages taught that Hashem doesn’t expect perfection, just an honest effort. And science supports this—studies show that people who reflect on their struggles actually build more resilience and happiness over time.

Want to make the most of your power to choose? Try these practical steps today:

• Pause: When you hit a decision point, take a breath. Name out loud what your options are.
• Reflect: Ask yourself, 'What choice will help me become the person I want to be?'
• Pray: Tefillah isn’t only for big moments—ask Hashem for guidance on small choices, too.
• Celebrate progress: Notice when you make choices aligned with your values, even if the outcome isn’t perfect. Small wins count.

When you look back on your day, you might realize the moments that felt like the smallest decisions were actually the gateways to amazing growth. Each choice, no matter how simple, can light up your path and bring positive energy to the world.

Life’s greatest adventures often start with the words, 'You choose!' Are you ready to embrace your power?

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