“And Yisro, the father-in-law of Moshe, took Tzippora….” (Shemos 18:2)
Yisro had been crowned with several titles of honor throughout his lifetime. Yet as Yisro approached to meet Moshe and join the ranks of the Jewish people, he dropped the other names by which he was known and took only the title associated with being Moshe’s father-in-law. (Rabbi Ben-Zion Rand, Likutei Peshatim)
T
he last place you want to spend a Chanukah morning is in your local frum toy store. I came early in the morning hoping to beat the rush, but it seemed plenty of other people had the same idea. Still, I only was buying one item, not browsing, and I was thrilled when I found myself second in line for the cashier.
Rebbe Simcha Bunim of Peshis’cha was once visited by one of his chassidim, a wealthy merchant who dealt with precious stones. The conversation turned to some necessary arrangements regarding some of the “simpler” people of the community, whom the Rebbe praised highly for their various abilities. The businessman couldn’t contain himself and inquired, “What does the Rebbe find so commendable about these people? I don’t think they’re so deserving of your compliments.” The Rebbe brought the conversation to a halt.
The problem was with the person in front of me, number one on line. He was a tall man, with a beard and suspenders, and he wanted to make a return. (They should make returns illegal during Chanukah itself. Just buying allowed.)
Within 30 seconds of listening to the conversation, I realized he had certain limitations.
“This Game Boy is broken. I have to return it. The games are all terrible,” he announced emphatically.
