I do an exercise called “fear-setting” at least once a quarter, often once a month. It has produced my biggest business and personal successes, as well as repeatedly helped me to avoid catastrophic mistakes.
The Yeshiva of Sodom
There was once a yeshiva in Sodom.
They said it was a place of truth, where every student must fit the holy bed.
If a boy’s mind reached beyond the frame, they cut him down with guilt until he mistook his shrinking for faith.
If his spirit was too large to be contained on the bench, they stretched him with shame until his soul grew thin and was no more.
And when the teachers saw him lying there, silent and identical to the rest, they blessed God and said,
“Behold, another perfect talmid.”
I don't know if the Baal Shem Tov had a flying wagon. I was not there.
I know we do.
I don't know if the bsht had kefitzas haderech.
I know we do.
I can get to Israel in a day.
Hallelujah!