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The Return
There was a rich and egocentric man from Risha who came to the Baal Shem to listen to his words of wisdom. The Master related the tale of two boys who grew up in a village in two neighbouring homes. When they eventually moved away from home, they maintained their friendship by writing to each other. The years went by and there came a time when one of them was in difficult straits. He sought out his childhood friend, who divided his possessions into two halves and gave his friend one half with his blessing. After a few years, the wheel of fortune turned once again and the poor man became rich, while his generous friend lost everything. But this time, the rich man refused to repay with the same kindness and his poor friend died hungry. The rich man died not long after and soon the two friends stood side by side facing the heavenly court, when the rich man realised the full extent of his betrayal. He was plagued by bitter regret over his own behavior, and begged to be given a chance to put things right by being reborn in the same situation. His wish was granted, but when the time came, the power of worldly riches blinded his judgement once again. When the Baal Shem came to this part of his story, the man from Risha broke down in tears because he recognised himself in this tale. From that day he changed his outlook on life and became a generous man for the rest of his days.
"For the destitute will not cease to exist within the Land: therefore I command you, saying, ‘You shall surely open your hand to your brother, to your poor, and to the needy in your Land.’" (Deuteronomy 15:11)
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