What If?

     I was talking with a very nice, young, non-Religious Jewish man. He was raised religious but he did not have a great relationship with his father so as soon as he could he left. I really like the guy. The conversation went something like this.

     "How come you don't kept Shabbos?"

     "Sometimes I want to make a phone call or something."

     "That's so important?"

      He smiled comfortable with the idea that he can do whatever he wants.

      I asked. "Let's say, G-d forbid, that you are right. Let's say that after you die nothing happens, no heaven, no hell, just zero. I would still want to live my life helping people, trying to make the world a better place."

      He agreed completely.

     "So, if you are right, I have lost nothing by living as I do and following the Torah."

      He kind of agreed.

      I went on, "But now let's say that I am right, and life goes on after this one. Then what's going to happen to you?"

      His face twisted. He didn't say anything but the thought that maybe what I am saying is right made him wonder about his life and what might happen to him after he leaves this world.

     The ironic thing is that not only do the non-religious Jews lose a huge share of what will be later, but when you do it right, living a religious life is more enjoyable than a secular life. The fact is, studies show that religious people are more optimistic, therefore happier than secular people, and live longer, healthier lives. I'm having a good time. Baruch Hashem.