Every soul descends to this world on a mission from God, but how do we discover this unique mission?
First, I have to ask myself, 'What am I lacking?' No person is without deficiencies, and recognizing my lack brings me out of my comfort zone, engenders humility, and arouses me to seek fulfillment. This question is egocentric, and the answer may be superficial and lowly, but it creates a necessary initial 'movement' within me. Naturally, the more internal and meaningful the answer to 'What am I lacking?,' touching on true and significant deficiencies rather than trivialities, the better it can guide me towards suitable channels for my mission (according to the types of things to which I am sensitive). This personal sense of lack also allows me to later identify external needs that require fulfillment, empathize with others' pain, and devote myself to a mission that addresses these needs.
The second, much deeper question is, 'What do I truly want?' Against the backdrop of the external and egocentric sense of lack, this inquiry reveals the true desire, reflecting the sense of purpose of the divine soul. In general, a Jew wants to be a giver, to do good in the world without recompense ("true kindness"). Specifically, the question 'What do I truly want?' helps identify the gifts God has bestowed upon me, my talents and abilities – accompanied by an inner enthusiasm that will enable perseverance and flourishing in activity – which are the good I can bestow upon the world.
But ultimately, the arena of mission is the reality outside my inner world – the good must be bestowed upon the Jewish people and through them to the entire world. Therefore, another question is required – 'What does the Jewish people need?' This question can be asked in broad circles, of the entire nation, or by looking at the circle of acquaintances and influence close to me. My mission, in the end, is not filling my own lacks or self-realization, but true devotion to benefiting the Jewish people and the world, hearing the request-lack in reality and saying 'Here I am.' Indeed, the ability to answer 'What am I lacking?' that we acquired in the first stage, now helps put me in another's shoes and answer what they lack. Identifying 'What do I truly want?' teaches which of the lacks in reality I have the ability to address.
The answer to these questions, which best combines my good qualities and blessed talents with the needs of the Jewish people, is precisely my mission! To cleanse the choice from egocentricity and image considerations, and to turn myself into a true emissary, one more thing is required – I must find the sender, nullify myself before a Rebbe who will examine my decisions, guide me, and give me strength to fulfill my mission in the best possible way. In finding my mission, I access my inheritance in the Land of Israel, where my true nature is revealed. Then I can fulfill my mission with natural consciousness, as a role destined for me since the six days of creation.
