A man who chose not to walk away from a tough situation has an inspiring story to share.
"Go and see which is the good way to which a man shall cleave … R. Elazar said a good heart" –Pirkei Avot 2:10
With Rosh Hashana (the Jewish new year), upon us, I decided to borrow Time magazine's tradition of naming a person of the year, although I won't tell you his name.
Just to set the record straight, there was no competition, just my search for someone with that "good heart."
In my profession as a rabbi, I often meet extraordinary people who leap outside their comfort zone, to be there for others. So to highlight just one is no easy task.
About six months ago, a couple showed up at Chabad of Malibu. In my meeting with them, it became clear to me that Mr. E. (name withheld because of confidentiality), a hard-working, sincere, good-hearted person, faced a dilemma that forced him to make a life-altering choice. Mrs. E., a wonderful person who had served for 22 years as a caring, loving nurse to so many patients, had herself developed a mental condition that requires round-the-clock care.
Over the past six months, I have come to know Mr. E quite well. I know that for many people, it is tempting, even easy, to throw their hands up and walk away from an unexpected and seemingly insurmountable burden. "Hand it (meaning a person) over to the 'professionals,' and go on with your life," we often are advised. And for Mr. E, he faced only this choice: Walk away from Mrs. E or live his life for Mrs. E.
Mr. E. had long been an avid golf player, but no longer. Mr. E. had received a best salesman award, but now he does not sell. Mr. E was a goer, a doer, but he really doesn't do very much. Except he does a lot—he cares for Mrs. E.
Some would say Mr. E doesn't have much of a life, yet his faith, his outlook on life and, yes, even his joy are beyond amazing.
As we enter the holiest of days on the Jewish calendar, beginning with Rosh Hashana, I ask that you join me in prayer that Mrs. E and others who suffer like her find peace and healing in their lives, and that great blessings be showered on Mr. E and others like him.
Do you have a moving story about a "good heart?" I would love to hear from you at [email protected]!
My very best wishes to each of you for a year filled with light and blessings.
I welcome you to join me at Chabad of Malibu for Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur at our "no tickets/no charge" High Holiday services. We just want to know that you will be there. Please let me know you're coming by making a reservation at www.jewishmalibu.com