Hi,
Here’s the perfect story as we get ready for Rosh Hashanah!
… Rabbi Michel Berenbaum. A great Torah scholar.
He was what is called the “Mashgiach” in a major Yeshiva.
The person in charge of the ethical development of the students.
You might call him “the ethicist”.
But he didn’t just teach from books.
He taught by example.
Rabbi Berenbaum passed away a while ago.
And recently, his grandson had a boy.
People assumed that the name given at the Bris (circumcision) would be a “no brainer”.
That he would be named after his illustrious great grandfather.
But that’s because they didn’t really know just how illustrious he was!
To everyone’s surprise, the baby was named after his maternal great grandfather.
The baby’s father spoke at the Bris and explained.
“Towards the end of my grandfather’s life, he asked me to come over.
He wanted to tell me something.”
“You know how proud I am of you and your wife.
And how much I would love to have your son, G-d willing, named after me.
But I have a favor to ask of you.
You know that your grandmother passed away before me.
But your wife’s grandfather passed away first. And her grandmother is still living.
Imagine how much comfort she would get from having the baby named after her husband.
I ask of you. Please.
Name your first son after your wife’s grandfather.
G-d willing, you will be blessed with another son.
I can wait!”
… When I heard this story, I said…
“Wow!
That’s what it means to focus on the needs and feelings of others!
And that’s the kind of message we need before Rosh Hashanah!
… Speaking of thinking of other people.
If you’re a YJP (20s & 30s)?
I wanted to make sure you knew about the CTN Rosh Hashanah Experience.
Short and to the point! This Tuesday from 10 am – 12:00 pm.
I will be leading it and making sure you actually understand what you’re saying!
You will come home inspired! And not tired!
And whether you’re a YJP or not?
Please forward this link to friends or relatives who are www.torahnetwork.org/High-Holidays.htm
All the best,