In mathematics, the letter “t” stands for time, and in the realm of mathematics, t = 0, because mathematics disregards time.
It is of no importance to it.
In science, “t = -1 (minus one)” because science focuses on exploring the past and the world that was.
But Judaism’s formula, in my eyes, is “t = +1 (plus one)”.
In Judaism, we look forward.
We want every generation to do better.
For example, we want our children to be better than us.
I do not think that anyone will argue with this, even in the competitive world we are living in today.
–Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz
As shared with me by my good friend, Rabbi Pinchas Allouche, Congregation Beth Tefillah, Scottsdale, AZ