“When I see a cold alcoholic beverage, I just can’t hold back—and the more I get, the more I want,” admits a young man who imbibes a little too regularly and a little too much. People who always give in to their desires will begin to lose faith in their ability to practice self-control.

Rabbi Eliyahu Dessler said that once we overcome a desire, we realize that we have the power to control the drive. On the day of Yom Kippur, for example, we may not eat or drink, and, although it is not easy, we all refrain from our normal routines and spend the day fasting. Even on an ordinary day, if a man forgets his wallet at home, regardless of how hungry he becomes, he would not steal food from a grocery. It is possible to control even the strongest desire, and the very act of successfully doing so makes us realize that we possess a heretofore unrecognized power of control.

Next time the urge gets strong, and you know you really shouldn’t give in (for health, legal, or religious reasons), recall an incident when you did control yourself. Use that as a sign that you really can beat the urge. Life is so much better when you are in the driver’s seat.

DID YOU KNOW THAT
      When the hazan is repeating the amidah, the congregation should remain silent and should concentrate on every word the hazan says. They should answer amen at the appropriate places.
      If there are not 9 people answering to his blessings it is almost as if he is saying berachah l'batallah - a blessing in vain.   Therefore, everyone should act as if is the 9th one answering and concentrate accordingly to the hazan's prayer.
Shulchan Aruch, O'H, 124:4

CONSIDER THIS FOR A MINUTE
      What lurks outside your home is dangerous. Why bring it inside?