In my own tradition of Judaism, reverence for life is often expressed through the sacred deeds we call "mitzvahs." The word literally means "commandments," and it is understood to mean that all of us are commanded to do good deeds — not because they may bring us fame or attention, or win us abundant credits in a heavenly ledger, but because we lose ourselves in the process of heartfelt giving.
— Phillip L. Berman, The Journey Home