Menachem Bluming Muses: Feeling Powerless?


There is a curious law in the laws of giving tzedakah which requires us to give enough tzedakah to a needy person sufficient for them to be able to give some tzedakah as well. Why does that make sense? Why give them community money for them to give to the community?!

Here's a thought to consider:

One of the most important gifts that you can give a person, is empowerment. Feeling in need makes you feel dis-empowered and vulnerable. By putting this needy individual in a position of being able to give he can feel again needed and empowered to make a difference and through that transform his trajectory positively.

If you are feeling powerless or paralyzed during this COVID-19 time, find someone to whom to give. Go shopping for them. Give them words of encouragement even if you are feeling unsure yourself. Give to tzedakah.

Distract yourself from your own worries. By giving you become empowered to make a difference and you are once again reminded how pivotal your role is especially during these critical times.

Mendel (Menachem) Bluming, Maryland

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