IT'S A MITZVAH
To Be Kind
MITZVA/MITZVOT (plural) – Traditionally understood as commandments or instructions for the Jewish people to observe, mitzvot are often interpreted in broader terms as “good deeds” or acts of kindness. It is traditional to perform at least one mitzvah a day.
Kindness is contagious, isn’t it? It’s infectious. You see someone being kind, and it inspires you to do the same.
Last week, while I was filling up at an Arco station, an elderly man rode near me on his bike. He stopped, set his bike down, and began sifting through the trash cans for plastic and tin. When he noticed me watching, he looked up and said, “Good morning.”
“Good morning,” I replied. “How are you?”
“Doin’ fine, thanks,” he answered and returned to his work.
I finished up, got into my car, started the engine, then paused. Something nudged me. I turned off the car, reached into my purse, and found the $7 I had. I walked over and handed it to him. “Buy yourself some breakfast,” I said. He smiled again and thanked me. Then I left, and he continued his work.
He hadn’t asked me for anything. But he had been kind, calm, and dignified in his work.
My friend Carole had a similar story. Near her former home lived a homeless man. She often gave him dinner and food for his dog. Eventually, they struck up an arrangement: she would drive him to the recycling center so he could cash in his bottles and cans. For her, it wasn’t just about helping, it was about preserving his dignity, giving him respect, and meeting him where he was.
Several years ago, I was at lunch with some friends. Nearby, a group of ten young men and women, likely fresh from their first off-duty weekend in military service, were laughing and celebrating. As we finished our meal, we quietly picked up their tab (minus alcohol) and asked the waitress not to reveal our identities.
I know some people don’t want to ask for help. Life is already hard enough without needing to explain your need. That’s where the mitzvah comes in, helping someone even when they haven’t asked, or when you know they can’t ask.
It doesn’t matter how you help. It shouldn’t even matter whether it benefits you.
I’ve been scolded for giving cash to panhandlers. “They’ll just buy drugs or alcohol,” people say. Maybe. But here’s how I see it: if I see someone in need and I can help, that’s what matters. Once I give the money, it’s no longer mine. I can only hope it’s used well, but even that hope, for me, is enough.
Last year, I stopped at Circle K for a diet soda on my way to work. When it was my turn at the register, I was told my drink had already been paid for. I’ve never had this happen before. Ever. I asked the obvious question that I knew would not receive an answer, and sure enough, it did not. I will tell you I had a good feeling inside all day long.
Mitzvah’s create good karma, right? What’s the last mitzvah you did, and what’s the next mitzvah you’ll do?