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Published
May 11, 2007
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Ask
Rabbi Dan
by Rabbi Dan
S. Wiko PhD |
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Issue:
8.04 |
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12 years ago I discovered that I was adopted & that I am a
Jew. Finally something fit for me.
My wife is the overachiever. She reads Torah and has created www.kakatuv.com
to help others with the Hebrew.
She is forever telling me that I am an intrinsic Jew. I do
things that are Jewish without having been taught. That brings me to my
question. I have long stated that my goal in life is to be a Mentsh.
Your definition (Mentsh - A special man or person. One who can be respected.)
doesn't quite fit my previous understanding. It feels a bit
egotistical to make the claim.
So, if I give you my definition, can you tell me the Yiddish word or words for
my goal in life?
My goal is to be an emotional and spiritual buoy for those I meet.
Often I do this simply by encouraging other artists and friends by observing
their best traits and telling them about these assets. Other times I share my
experiences, especially my errors, with them. This usually helps in ways that
vary and surprise me. I am told by family and friends that they appreciate my
ability to listen and keep a confidence.
I like what I have become and want to improve on it.
So, what am I?
Thank your for taking the time to read this.
I hope you can help.
Ed
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Dear Ed,
A mentch (mench, mensch) is what we, in plain English, would call "a real
person"; one who is supportive and caring about others, one who fits into most
situations and is, almost always liked and admired for his personality.
You, I believe, are seeking to become a tzaddik; a righteous person seeking to
keep justice alive in this world.
Kol Hakavod...All strength to you.
Shalom,
Rabbi Dan
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