We conclude Chapter 1 of the Mesilat Yesharim. The Ramchal has brought us to understand the obligation of a person in this world. It is ultimately to serve God, refine oneself, and do everything one can here, while one is alive, to prepare for life in the next world.
Whatever one sees as furthering these goals should be chased after. If one sees that it will not further these goals, we should run from it, like running from fire!
Now that we have come to understand our purpose in this world, there is nothing left, other than to concentrate on walking the path of Rabbi Pinchas ben Yair as laid out for us – from the levels beginning with “Carefulness” to the level of Kedusha – holiness.
