Breakfast with G-d

I was about to eat an apple for breakfast. Nothing unusual about that. But what if something as ordinary as eating an apple could become an opportunity to connect with the Creator of the universe?

Jewish tradition teaches that serving G-d, which includes serving others, is our purpose and that developing a relationship with Him is central to our lives. But understanding these ideas and actually experiencing that relationship in everyday life are two very different things.

Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzatto in his book, “Path of the Just”, describes a progression of spiritual development that begins with recognizing our purpose, builds through conscious attention and enthusiasm, and moves us toward a deeper connection with G-d.

I’ve been applying this progression to ordinary activities through four traits: Serve, Think, Feel, Connect.

These traits aren’t limited to explicitly religious activities. They can change how we experience working on our character, exercising, making healthier food choices, or simply eating breakfast. The opportunities are already present in our daily lives.

Not every action produces a feeling of connection, and developing a deeper relationship with G-d takes time. But each action offers another opportunity to strengthen that relationship.

Before saying a blessing of thank for my apple, I reminded myself that nourishing my body was an opportunity to serve G-d. I gave the moment my attention instead of eating automatically. I felt enthusiastic about serving G-d through something as ordinary as eating an apple. And I wanted to connect with Him. I said the blessing and felt close to G-d. Then I took a bite.

The apple tasted the same. But the experience was different. The pleasure of eating was joined by the pleasure of connecting with G-d.