While "v'ahavta l'reiacha kamocha" is a klal gadol baTorah, low self-image can interfere with this formula. Therefore, Ben Azai says one must know his inherent greatness. R' Yaakov takes this one step further. A person must know that Hashem (ה׳) desires a relationship with him. The Korban Tamid reminds him of this. Bearing this in mind will give him a sense of nobility and enable him to step back and not become his desires. He will then view himself positively, and in turn be able to treat others in the same way.
Rabbi Zweig challenges Freudian psychology by arguing that the basic human drive is not pleasure-seeking but rather the painful awareness of non-existence, and explains how only a relationship with God can provide the feeling of true existence and simcha.
An exploration of the deeper meaning of 'amirah' (saying) as empowering others by recognizing their uniqueness and building meaningful relationships through authentic, individualized communication.
