Creation proceeds continuously moment by moment. It has been said that if the Creator were to pause even for a moment his creating everything would simply cease to exist. However, as we know and can attest life does indeed continue and we are faced with moments so incredible that we say to ourselves, ‘if it had just been for this moment it would have been enough.’ This is the essence of Dayenu and the heart of this song.
One thing builds upon another. In order to get to Sinai we first had to leave Mitzrayim and every step along the way is described miraculously yes but also as an integral part of Hashem’s plan for us. The question then is ‘how do I become a part of this plan that makes sure everything works out for the best and then some? That answer is simple. We endeavor to have a continuous ever present connection with Hashem and yes that means now and most decidedly you.
First we have to know where we are going and what the vehicle is that is going to carry us there. Where we are going is easy. We are seeking connection with Hashem. The vehicle we may use is called gratitude.
Each morning when we rise we speak the Modeh Ani announcing our gratitude to Hashem. It is an essential prayer that continues once again our intention to make our connection with Hashem. What we are saying here is that not only are we grateful for this moment when we arise but also for all the many moments that will follow that we will be grateful for as well.
In Psalm 107:43 it says: Whoso is wise, let him observe these things, and let them consider the mercies of the LORD.
What we then consider is that the constant attention that Hashem places upon us even when we are not paying complete attention we begin to see the magnitude of what could be when our attention is focused continuously as the days of old that we speak of during these times.
When the Jews were liberated from Mitzrayim Hashem was a continuous presence before them by day with the pillar of cloud and by night with fire. Each moment was an opportunity to say Dayenu. The central theme here is that we are guided by Hashem not only then but now as well. Yes it is enough that all these wonderful things take place but the heart of the matter is that this is what it means to be attached to Hashem all the time.
The ultimate freedom is to know that Hashem is always there and that we are meant to be just as we are in this moment. Then looking up we recognize our connection and express our unbounded gratitude to Hashem.
So now as we contemplate this night where we celebrate our deliverance from slavery and our freedom to be just as we are here and now we remember too that the gratitude we express for Hashem is expressed as well through our gratitude to our parents, teachers, loved ones and friends.
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