It is well known that there are two types of mitzvos: those between man and G-d and those between man and his fellow man. It is often assumed that every mitzvah between man and man is also a mitzvah between man and G-d, because G-d commanded this act towards one's fellow man. But in actuality, the converse is also true: every mitzvah between man and G-d is also a mitzvah between man and man. This is so because the Talmud suggests that we envision the entire world, which everyone shares, as resting on a scale of judgment. Good deeds are on one side while transgressions are on the other. When one performs a mitzvah, he weights the judgment toward merit and adds something positive to the world. When he transgresses, he tilts the scale unfavorably and adds something negative. Clearly, even if one performs a mitzvah between man and G-d, it will impact upon one's fellow, with whom he shares the world.

We read in the Parasha of Nitzavim/Vayelech, commonly read on Shabbos Shuvah, that "It is not in heaven," making reference to either the Torah (Rashi) or the mitzvah of T'shuva (Ramban). The Chafetz Chayim once offered a parable to explain this verse.

A man once bought an exotic fur coat for several thousand rubles, an exorbitant price. Seeing how much he paid for it, his friend asked him, "Will it last you a long time?' "No," he responded, "it won't." "Does it keep you warm at least?" he asked "Moderately," he replied. The questioner was puzzled and continued: "Then why didn't you purchase a wool coat which is much cheaper, far more durable, and extremely warm? Why is this one so valuable to you?" The man answered: "The fur from this coat can only be acquired from a very rare animal in one of the remotest parts of the African jungle. It is because my coat is unique that it is so valuable."

So too, the Chafetz Chayim explained, must we understand the statement of "It is not in heaven." The opportunities to perform G-d's commandments, study His Torah, and repent for our wrongdoing do not exist on other planets or in some other world. Not even in the world to come. They can be found only in one place. It is here and now on this earth where we can serve G-d. And that is precisely why the mitzvos are so valuable. Of the entire vast space of the universe and the endless march of time, it is in this unique place and moment alone, where we have the opportunity to dedicate ourselves to our Creator. We dare not squander it.