As planet earth continues to hurtle forward along its orbit without pause, so, too, does modern man race forward along the path of his life. Today's work market is so competitive and pressured that one dares not stop for a moment, lest he be trampled by the galloping masses all around him. Those who do not make substantial progress are shoved to the sidelines. Inevitably, we are at a loss to avoid the paradox: modern man devotes the major part of his waking hours to earning a living for himself and his family. Tragically, the pressure is so great that he is left without the time to devote to the wife and children for whose welfare he invests so much of his time and energies. 

The battle for one's livelihood has become so intense that it is the defining facet of our lives. For most, it consumes the majority of our time, efforts and thoughts. One is paid for talent, sweat, and loyal, continuous effort - in short, all the human resources with which man is endowed. We are drilled to achieve maximum efficiency, to produce the greatest possible profits for our company. Wisdom, science, and understanding are no longer sought for their own sake. Rather, their value is determined by how much the firm will profit from their application in the market place. The race into which we are thrust is not for culture or wisdom; it has deteriorated and eroded into a frantic dash after money. Human qualities such as mercy, compassion, wisdom and selfless devotion to the welfare of others are no longer of the highest order of value, unless they bring profit or fame in their wake. How do we curtail this unbridled race toward increased profitability? Where and how can modern man get in touch with his true self?

Each week, the Shabbat enables man to rise above the concerns of earning his livelihood, paying his mortgage, and keeping his employer satisfied. It affords him an opportunity to get in touch with his inner self, to put the concerns of the soul at the top of his priorities, to set his own private, inner “home” in order. It changes our point of perspective on our world and those in it. 

Anyone who has had the opportunity to experience an authentic Shabbat will know that by observing the seventh day has a healthful, enriching effect. It broadens our horizons and improves our quality of life. The Shabbat day allows the family to gather without pressure, to become better acquainted with each other and to share their lives. Worries fade into the background, as man learns to view his world from a better angle, with the eyes of the soul within his heart.