Thursday, June 12, 2008
Hakaras HaTov
I’ll never forget when I was learning in Ner Yisroel Rabbinical College and my former Regional Director asked me to drive someone by whom I had spent many Shabbas meals to sit shiva for his father in Silver Springs. I asked, when he needed me to drive him and when told the time I proceeded to answer that I could not because I would miss shiur. Rabbi Lowenbraun proceeded to teach me an important lesson in Hakaras HaTov right there and needless to dsay, I was on my way to Silver Springs shortly. I often wonder how our children/students end up putting other priorities ahead of NCSY and the communities of individuals that helped them get to where they are today.
Well, this past Shabbas I had a very pleasant surprise. During kiddush at the Young Israel of Passaic/Clifton I was greeted by a “Do you remember me” from a very warm and smiling Linda of Columbus Ohio. Of course, I remembered her, and then I noticed standing next to her was her daughter Jamie who had been an NCSY’er of mine. I enjoyed the moment (especially her extremely cute baby boy) and asked the non loaded question of “what are you guys up to?” Jamie told me that they were moving back to Columbus. Her husband was able to keep the same job as he works by computer from home and she was going to be the new youth director at Beth Jacob back home.
I was blown away! Rabbi Stavsky of blessed memory like Rabbi Lowenbraun knew how to teach Hakaras Hatov. His Grandson is the Rabbi (NCSY Alum Tuli Weiss) and now Jamie is the youth director. I hope this little story fills you with warmth and spurs you to action as it does me because a little Hakaras Hatov goes along way!!!!
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