The Rav always taught me when a person comes out of a lecture saying, “Very interesting,” the lesson probably penetrated their head, but not their heart. When a person walks out in tears, when there is emotion, then there’s a chance they can actually put the knowledge to good use.
In your studies today, look for lessons you can take to heart.
If we are honest with ourselves, then we can see much of our giving and sharing in life comes with strings attached. We generally think because we handed over money when we couldn’t afford it or volunteered when it was inconvenient that we’ve got something coming to us.
The truth is, only when we reach a state of mind where we’re generally unconcerned with the payback will we actually receive the payback.
Just one more kabbalistic paradox we need to wrap our heads around today.
A husband goes to the doctor and says, “I have a big problem with my wife. She doesn’t want to admit she is deaf.” The doctor tells him, “There is a simple test. When you get to the doorstep, scream, `honey, what’s for dinner?” If there is no answer, move closer a few steps and ask again. Move another step and another until she answers.”
The husband comes home, stops at the door, and yells out, “Honey, what’s for dinner?” Silence. He takes another step and asks again, still no answer. He is within a few inches and he screams, “Honey, what’s for dinner?!” She turns to him and says, “I answered you four times. We are having soup!”
The faults we see in others are quite often what we can’t bear to see in ourselves. Think about this today. Look at others’ annoying behaviors and ask yourself, “Is that what I’m like?”