Our Middah this week is “Don’t wait to be asked to do something kind.” In this week’s Torah Portion, “Chaye Sarah”, we encounter Rivka at the well, a scene that reveals her defining character trait: Let’s call it “proactive kindness.” When Avraham’s servant Eliezer prays for a sign to find Yitzhak’s future wife, Rivka doesn’t wait to be asked. She sees Eliezer and his camels and immediately offers water for both him and his animals—a gesture that goes “well” beyond what is expected. Rivka says to Eliezer:
וַתֹּאמֶר, שְׁתֵה אֲדֹנִי; וַתְּמַהֵר, וַתֹּרֶד כַּדָּהּ עַל-יָדָהּ–וַתַּשְׁקֵהוּ. (בראשית כ”ד,י”ח)
“‘Drink, my lord,’ she said, and she quickly lowered her jar upon her hand and let him drink.” (Genesis 24:18)
This teaches us the power of Chesed (kindness) that is both thoughtful and proactive. Rivka didn’t wait for someone to ask for help; she saw a need and acted swiftly and generously. This quality not only made her suitable to be part of Avraham’s family but also set a blueprint for what it means to live a life of Chesed.
In our own lives, we can emulate Rivka by looking for opportunities to help others without waiting to be asked. Whether it’s a kind word, a helpful deed, or simply noticing someone in need, proactive kindness creates ripples that can transform our communities.
Rivka teaches us that true greatness lies in small, selfless acts performed with a full and generous heart. May we all—Teachers, Students, Parents, and every member of The Toronto Heschel School community—find inspiration to bring this spirit of readiness and care into our own lives!
