Kindness Hacks from Vayigash

R' Moshe Feinstein was receiving a lift from his home to his Yeshiva. As he was leaving the car the driver accidentally closed the door on his fingers. Despite the agony, R’Moshe did not utter a sound, and calmly entered the Yeshiva. Some students rushed over to assist the quietly suffering Rav. When asked why he didn’t say something to the driver he explained ‘He was kind enough to drive me to the Yeshiva. How could I embarrass him?’

The time had come for Yosef to reveal his identity to his brothers. Overcome with emotion, it would have been easy for Yosef to simply announce who he was in front of everyone present. However, even in the heat of the moment he was sensitive to his brothers feelings, and asked the Egyptians to leave the room so that they wouldn’t be shamed about their sin in front of anyone else.

Incredible examples of self control and sensitivity.

When people are emotionally excited, it is very easy to be so absorbed in what is happening that the feelings of others are forgotten.

Someone who has mastered the art of kindness will not forget. They will be so acutely aware of the feelings of those around them, that even when the situation is challenging, or there is no time to think, their reaction is still of utmost sensitivity.

Shabbat Shalom!

(Adapted from Love Your Neighbour by Zelig Pliskin)