The Genius Was in the Details—Even in His Coffee

They say Beethoven’s coffee had to be perfect. And for that, he required exactly 60 beans. He would sit at the table each morning, pour the beans onto a white plate, and count them one by one. If he lost track, he would start over. No exceptions.

This week’s Torah portion, Pekudei, opens with a meticulous accounting of the materials used in constructing the Tabernacle.

The message is clear: while each of us is engaged in meaningful pursuits to bring value to the world in our own unique way, attention to detail is essential.

Even as we pursue noble causes with passion and idealism, we must remember—great ideas are only successfully realized through disciplined focus and precision.

This is especially true when it comes to our relationships. With so many people in our lives—colleagues, friends, and family—it’s easy to lose sight of the specific attention some individuals need.

It’s a constant balancing act, requiring ongoing awareness as we shift between our broader social responsibilities and the focused care each person uniquely deserves.