I walked home that night with many memories stories and thoughts but mostly I was left wondering if I had ever in my life done something totally and completely for the sake of Heaven. Like any good Jew I had done my fair share of good deeds but there was always something in it for me — positive attention from others or some other personal benefit.

Most mitzvahs are and should be enjoyable. But was there anything? Anything however small that I didn't enjoy or benefit from but did anyway? Something that could show that even the mitzvos I did enjoy were truly for the sake of Heaven and not just because it makes me feel good? I searched my mind and heart and didn't find anything. Maybe someday I would.

About a year later I got my chance.

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