We have seen how technological advance has endowed mankind with many blessings. However, the corollary, that our true level of happiness has risen with it, has not been borne out. In the first case, it is enticing but self-defeating e.g. the more possessions, the more worry. Unfortunately, the value system prevalent in our world continually beats on our heart, pressing for our allegiance to the momentary and ephemeral. It is a snare into which many fall, believing its promises of endless pleasure and projecting its wares as the sum total of life.
Eternal values equal eternal life.
We face Israel when saying the Amidah and in davening generally. Whilst saying the Amidah, we suddenly realise we are facing the wrong way. We should then try to turn our bodies in the right direction, if at all possible, but not move our feet. A sick person who is confined to bed and unable to stand, davens where he or she lies, directing the heart to G-d. A closer study, however, indicates that it is also making a symbolic point.