Striving to please G-d ?

Dear Elana,

I need to comment on your “striving” because it is so different than what I feel humans are supposed to be doing with their lives.

Our actions and our thoughts should not revolve around pleasing G-d. We are here merely to live a happy and constructive life and that is made easier by following G-d’s suggested modes of behavior. If an individual or a society achieves these types of well being, then G-d will be pleased.

Here’s an analogy. Should it be your children’s preoccupation to please you? Of course it shouldn’t be. They will please you though if they develop to their full potential and come to live happy and constructive lives.

G-d will be pleased if you strive to be happy in a responsible way.