The point is that when a person is coerced into a resolution, it lacks the force of the resolution. And if so, his ability to carry out the resolution is also lacking. It was clear and apparent from the beginning that he wouldn’t be able to stand by his resolution.
Sometimes, a person will commit to doing something on the fly... not considering that he’s committed to doing a million things on that day. Not only won’t his schedule fit into 24 hours—it wouldn’t fit into 72 hours! So, why did he agree to do it? It’s because he’s not serious in his commitment! However, when a person can carry out his resolution, and he accepts the resolution of his own volition, then his commitment can stand for a long time to come.
Accepting Malchus Shamayim Like We Mean It
This yesod applies all year, not only on Purim. Every day, we fulfill the mitzvah of שמע קריאת—our acceptance of the yoke of the Heavenly Kingdom. If one doesn’t accept this, he doesn’t understand what קריאת שמע is all about! One must understand this. This mitzvah is not a game, and it isn’t a סגולה. When a person comes to שמע קריאת, he comes with all the seriousness in the world to accept the yoke of Heaven. He knows that it’s possible that he will fail here and there, but at this moment, he has in mind with all his heart to accept and carry out every one of the 613 mitzvos.
The difficulty begins when a person comes to שמע קריאת knowing his weaknesses and his failings. And the burning question is...what are you accepting upon yourself?! You accepted it yesterday and the day before. You will also accept it tomorrow. But do you have the ability to carry it out? Do you really think that you possess the ability to fulfill תתורו ולא עיניכם?! ואחרי לבבכם אחרי
When reciting שמע קריאת, you’re accepting upon yourself to stop all the stories and excuses. Do you really mean that? Are you prepared for that?!
