Reigning on the parade

The Medrash on this week’s parsha tells us that among the revelations that were revealed to Moshe, was, “Each generation and its wise people; each generation and its leaders.” Then the Medrash adds something that seems peculiar. The Medrash says that he was also shown, “Each generation and its wicked ones; each generation and its thieves.” Why was it necessary to show Moshe the wicked of each generation?

The commentaries explain that it would be very difficult for Moshe to really appreciate the leaders of each generation, unless he also understood what challenges they were up against. Each generation has its issues. Moshe was able to appreciate the success and nobility of the leaders he was being shown because he was also shown their challenges, and what they were up against.

On a personal level as well, each of us overcomes significant challenges to succeed at that which we do. By appreciating the challenges or distractions, we can more fully appreciate and reinforce the good that we have done.

When Reb Elchonon Wasserman was in the United States fundraising for his European Yeshiva, he was brought to Manhattan on a number of occasions. On one occasion, he noticed a significant commotion just down the block as an annual holiday parade was being prepared. Reb Elchonon asked his driver to wait and he proceeded down the block to watch the festivities.

After watching patiently for several minutes, Reb Elchonon told his driver that he was ready to go. Together they proceeded to the next appointment.

The driver was surprised by Reb Elchonon’s uncharacteristic behavior. Usually he guarded his time and was so careful not to waste a moment. Why had he felt it necessary to watch the float preparations for a full fifteen minutes.

Full of curiosity, the driver respectfully broached the subject with Reb Elchonon. He said, “I’m so confused. Usually the Rosh Yeshiva is so careful with his time. Why was it necessary to spend so much precious time watching the parade?”

Reb Elchonon replied, “You know that there are a growing number of students in the yeshiva who are from the United States. They left everything that they were used to behind, and came to live in our very un-modern, little town.

“As their mentor it is my obligation to appreciate what they left behind, and understand where they are coming from.

“Yetz ich farshtein- Now I understand them a little better, and appreciate them all the more. They left all this excitement, pomp, and ceremony behind, to come to our simple town to study Torah. They were able to see beyond the attractive lights and noises…”

In order to really appreciate the leaders of each generation, Moshe had to know what their challenges were. So it is for every parent and mentor, for all time. To properly coach anyone or to appreciate them, we need to understand what they are up against and where they are coming from.

May Hashem give us the insight and the wisdom…

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