Power

The following is a story sent to me from a rabbi in Taiwan. How we met, and who he is, is a special tale in and of itself. But for now, we'll keep this post current. I wanted to re-post this story for several reasons. One, when I read it, it was exactly the points and beliefs I needed to reminded of this morning. The second reason is because of the man I call "my favorite beggar" at the Central Bus Station in Jerusalem.

There are beggars in Jerusalem, but they are unlike the panhandlers you see in San Francisco, or San Diego. Collecting "tzedaka" is a sanctioned occupation for Torah students (to the best of my understanding). Otherwise there are the disabled "regulars" asking for alms and a few newcomers who see a way to get some quick pocket money.

The man I'm speaking of collects money, but he also sings songs about Elohim. He dresses in clean clothes, and has a car. And he never refuses any amount, no matter how small. Every time I see him, I smile. He has so much joy and such a pleasant spirit about him. He tells me that each smile makes me a little bit more lucky, like a prayer, and every little bit collects until a collection of smiles is so great it reaches heaven. Whether I've given him money or not, he wants to pray a blessing over me and my brother. The blessing of the Cohenim, the blessing over the sons and daughters of Israel. I smile every time I see him. I also smile every time I remember.