This week’s kavanot are directed to our younger generation of Jews (under 50). For those a bit older, they are likely to induce a smile.
“When I was young, I admired clever people. Now that I am older, I admire kind people.”*
Our society appropriately honors those with talent (Academy Awards, Tony Awards, sporting awards, etc.). Institutions of higher learning appropriately bestow special honors for the valedictorian of a graduating class and other academic achievers. Talent, hard work, and intelligence should be recognized. These abilities, however, do not necessarily go hand-in-hand with kindness and character.
The Torah offers an insight in this regard when it comes to selecting a spouse. Abraham sends his servant, Eliezer, to find a wife for his son Isaac. Eliezer, wanting to find an appropriate bride, prays to God to send him a sign so he will choose correctly. When Eliezer asks Rebecca for a sip of water at the well, not only does he drink until satisfied, but Rebecca says, “I will also draw (water) for your camels until they finish drinking.” (Genesis 24:19). Then she invites Eliezer (until now, a stranger) to stay with her family. That seals the deal.
There are many other aspects to a successful relationship, but Rebecca’s kindness is paramount, and she and Isaac have, by all accounts, a loving marriage. It’s a trait that is equally important when choosing our friends.
Rabbi David Woznica
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