I appreciate Alan’s timely reminder that Rabbi Shlomo Wolbe encouraged a relentless effort to learn from our own experiences and those of others. It’s not always easy, but there is a lot to learn when things go well, and when they don’t. Alan observes that “an all too common response to another person’s fall is to be content to stand in judgment.” It seems to me that even when we recognize that this has been our quick automatic response (I acknowledge sometimes reacting this way), we all have it within ourselves not to “be content” with leaving things at that. Compassion can be blended with whatever judgments we make. And we should always make a “relentless effort to learn.” Mark Kaufman, Kansas City
Rav Wolbe’s comment that struck home and has stayed with me is that even on the day that one is dying, you shouldn’t be just dying but you should be learning how to die. I can’t predict what I will be thinking about that day, but it is hard to imagine having that much presence of mind. Still, because he said it and now I have heard it, there is a possibility I’ll be prepared to keep learning to the last breath.
Thankyou, This concept and story is very relevant to me at this moment. I occasionally mention to people with pride that I have been driving for 70 years without accident or speeding ticket. Unfortunately with my New Year post I received my first speeding ticket for a route I have been driving for many years. How the mighty are fallen!
I appreciate Alan’s timely reminder that Rabbi Shlomo Wolbe encouraged a relentless effort to learn from our own experiences and those of others. It’s not always easy, but there is a lot to learn when things go well, and when they don’t. Alan observes that “an all too common response to another person’s fall is to be content to stand in judgment.” It seems to me that even when we recognize that this has been our quick automatic response (I acknowledge sometimes reacting this way), we all have it within ourselves not to “be content” with leaving things at that. Compassion can be blended with whatever judgments we make. And we should always make a “relentless effort to learn.” Mark Kaufman, Kansas City
Rav Wolbe’s comment that struck home and has stayed with me is that even on the day that one is dying, you shouldn’t be just dying but you should be learning how to die. I can’t predict what I will be thinking about that day, but it is hard to imagine having that much presence of mind. Still, because he said it and now I have heard it, there is a possibility I’ll be prepared to keep learning to the last breath.
Thankyou, This concept and story is very relevant to me at this moment. I occasionally mention to people with pride that I have been driving for 70 years without accident or speeding ticket. Unfortunately with my New Year post I received my first speeding ticket for a route I have been driving for many years. How the mighty are fallen!
May this be the worst thing that happens to you in 2026, Ralph!
I really liked what you had to say here Alan. Thanks !
I once said to my son “life is really hard, what if we would’ve missed it.”
Bonnie
👍
Thanks, Bonnie.