Bereshis aids us in understanding the holy concept of l’shma, so that we may better comprehend ourselves and our purpose. Rashi asks of the need for this opening in light of the importance of the Law and we learn the fundamental principle of HaShem’s will being the sole authority by din of his Copyright on the creation. We may also see the opening portion of our holy Torah as necessary for the human being to realize their place and context, both in the unlimited majesty of our soul and the bound and diminutive form of this body in the world; to inspire us to love and to realize both in experience and mind and to appreciate the greatness of HaShem and the wonders He performs for us endlessly, all of which serve as goads that they never cease, leading the discerning human on an endless trail of discovery and bounty.

Ultimately we perplex ourselves and this inhibits the trait of l’shma. Our own distractions cause us to feel removed, distant from the good, which is why our holy T’N’Ch reiterates in numerous places that HaShem is always near for if He were removed from a human our existence wold be null and void and, if indeed we had to search for Him and His way, then we might be so lost as to, G-d forbid, not return but this is not the case. The human being is always in the embrace of HaShem but looks elsewhere, finds the mundane enticing because its effect is more immediate and localized, so we need only turn back in one step and achieve a renewed footing.

L’shma is this simple recognition, is this realization of what this bracha to participate in the Creation means.

Simply to realize the whole expression of HaShem’s goodness and suddenly the weight one feels is not of guilt or fear, but of awe inspired by love and gratitude, a responsibility to uphold the tremendous gift we have received for nothing! Ha, it is as though our good fortune fell from the sky!

Understanding this treasure is not too hard when we  invest effort  to consider the  ma’aseh bereshis.

HaShem strengthen us, please, as our distractions are many, our temperaments fickle, these hearts are capricious, and the many choices dilute effort, weaken resolve, and inhibit loyalty.