“Josh, why don’t you give the gourmet sandwich you bought to that hungry man?”
“Dad, you taught us to be genuine. I’ve been looking forward to this sandwich. It would be a hypocritical act for me to feign that I’m taking interest in the hungry fellow!”
“Josh, it’s a genuine sandwich, and it will genuinely satisfy the hunger of this man. That’s all that counts!”
A hungry person who is given a nutritious meal is not concerned about your motive. It’s great to develop an honest personality. But the act of giving is not dependent on it.
The sophisticated excuse of “I don’t want to be a hypocrite!” is a brilliant way to say, “I’m selfish”. Since when is giving supposed to be a self-serving experience?
Giving is about the recipient. Period.
Actually, it’s impossible to experience the thrill of giving if one hasn’t practiced the act of giving!
So yes, it all starts with being a hypocrite. Hopefully, we grow out of it. If we don’t? Do a little more. Eventually, you will get it. Don’t stop!
Wishing you and your family a Shabat Shalom,
Rabbi Mendy
