In East of Eden, John Steinbeck introduces the Hebrew word timshel, meaning “thou mayest.”
This single word carries profound weight: it signifies choice.
Not a command, not a promise. Just possibility.
As one character reflects:
“The word timshel—‘Thou mayest’—that gives a choice. It might be the most important word in the world. That says the way is open…For if ‘Thou mayest’—it is also true that ‘Thou mayest not.’ Don’t you see?”
And right at the end of this powerful novel:
“And now that you don’t have to be perfect, you can be good.”
It’s a gentle reminder that perfection isn’t the goal, goodness is.
So, if you’re feeling the weight of expectations, remember: you have the choice.
You may take a break.
You may seek support.
You may choose to be kind to yourself.
Timshel.
