By Evie Weinstein

In late March of this year, I experienced a serious fall that resulted in four broken bones in my right foot and a severe sprain in my left calf. I was placed in a non-weight-bearing cast for eight weeks. For those who know me, I am an active senior, constantly engaged in volunteer work, travel, and a full social life. Suddenly, everything came to a halt.

Not only were my external commitments canceled, but I also lost the ability to care for myself in even the most basic ways. My doctor was unequivocal—I could not put any weight on my right foot. I became completely dependent on my dear husband, Barry, for everything. And I truly mean everything. Even the simplest acts of self-care required assistance.

After the initial shock subsided, I realized that I had a choice: I could face the coming weeks with frustration and despair, or I could approach them with intention and openness. It was through the wisdom of Mussar and the practice of middot that I found my way forward.

Middot (plural of middah) are the soul traits or ethical qualities that guide us toward becoming our best selves. Rooted in Jewish tradition, particularly in Mussar, they offer a framework for personal growth and spiritual awareness.

During my convalescence, several middot became my constant companions:

Hakarat HaTov — Gratitude
There are no words to fully express the depth of my gratitude. First and foremost, to Barry, who cared for me with endless patience and love. To my family, friends, and members of the Jewish community who showed up with meals, flowers, books, calls, and visits—you reminded me daily of the abundance in my life. I was also deeply aware that my injury could have been far worse. Even in limitation, there was blessing.

Savlanut — Patience
Patience became essential. The long days of sitting, the dependence on others, and the slow pace of healing could easily have led to frustration. Instead, Savlanut helped me bear the burden with greater acceptance. It invited me to slow down in a way I had never done before.

Anavah — Humility
Perhaps the most profound lesson came through the middah of Anavah. Often translated as humility, Anavah is not about diminishing oneself, but about taking up the right amount of space. It is about recognizing both our strengths and our limitations with honesty.

In my case, Anavah meant acknowledging that I could not live as I had before—at least not for a time. I had to set aside my fiercely independent nature and learn to ask for help in ways that felt unfamiliar and uncomfortable. I had to accept vulnerability.

This experience brought to mind the powerful description of Moses in this week’s Parashat Beha’alotcha (Numbers 8:1–12:16), where we are told: “Now the man Moses was very humble, more than any person on the face of the earth.” Moses, the greatest of leaders, is defined not by power or authority, but by his humility.

In the Torah portion, this statement appears in the midst of a challenge to Moses’ leadership by Miriam and Aaron. Rather than defend himself, Moses remains silent. His humility is not weakness; it is strength rooted in self-awareness and trust. He does not need to assert himself because he knows who he is and what his role is.

During my recovery, I began to understand this quality more deeply. Like Moses, I was called—on a much smaller scale—to release my need for control and self-sufficiency. I was invited to trust others, to accept care, and to recognize that needing help does not diminish one’s worth. In fact, it can deepen connection and strengthen community.

Humility, I learned, is not about stepping back entirely, but about stepping into reality as it is.

This period of stillness, though difficult, became a sacred space for growth. Through gratitude, patience, and humility, I was able not only to endure the experience but to be transformed by it.

As I return to my active life, I carry these lessons with me—especially the quiet strength of Anavah, which reminds me to live with balance, openness, and grace.

Evie is the former Executive Director of the Bureau of Jewish Education.  She currently serves as the Vice President for Education at Congregation Shir Shalom and is a Mussar Facilitator.  Evie is also a proud member of the HERO Speakers Bureau.