Flat Footedness: Our Readiness to Change

Rabbi Silber reflects on a mashal about an animal that digs its paws in and can't be lifted no matter how many people try to pick it up, and applies it to the work of teshuva. Real change, he says, usually isn't a mystery of information — most people already know exactly what they need to do — the real obstacle is unwillingness to let go of the habits, attitudes, and comforts keeping them anchored in place. However much inspiration, however many tools, however much support surrounds a person, none of it can move someone who refuses to loosen his grip. Genuine growth begins the moment a person becomes willing to let go.

• Real change usually isn't a mystery of information — most people already know what they need to do.
• No amount of outside inspiration or support can move someone who refuses to let go of what holds him back.
• Growth requires actively releasing the habits, attitudes, and comforts that keep a person anchored in place.
• The hardest part of change is not knowing what to do, but becoming willing to do it.