A Formula
to Help Your Friend \ Pirkei Avot
D'var
Torah: "Shamai
said, 'Offer a little help and do a lot.'" Often people promise they
will do a lot to help their friend in time of need. Yet, despite their
assurances and good intentions, they end up doing very little. Shamai taught
that it is best to make a modest promise to provide help for your friend.
Ultimately, when your friend needs your support, do a great deal more than you
originally promised. For example, when the three desert travelers came to
Avraham Avinu, he told them, "I will serve you a little bread to
eat." Yet, ultimately, he served them a sumptuous banquet.
Moral: When we offer to help others, it is appropriate to first express ourselves with humility and graciousness, and then actively help them with as much kindness as we can.
Application: Envision the kindness and gentleness of Avraham, offering to share a little bread with the desert travelers. Sense how he welcomes them with care, sensitivity, and love. See him provide them with a sumptuous meal, personally serving them with kindness, warmth and compassion. Speak modestly when you volunteer to help others, and help them with the maximum effort you can make.
(Based on
the commentary of Rashi to Pirkei Avos 1:15)
By: Zvi Miller &
The Salant Foundation.
Daily Mussar: Dated
in May 31st.
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