A Good Heart

This week with HaShem's love and grace we will gather together with our families and friends to give thanks to our Creator for all that He has given us. For some this can also be a time of stress as some relationships are less then perfect. The teaching below by Rabbi Zvi Miller may be just what we need to hear to help us make the most of this precious time together~Elisheva

"Rabban Yochanon ben Zakkai said to his students, "Go out and find the straight path - to which a person should devote himself." Rabbi Eliezer said, "A good eye." Rabbi Yehoshua said, "A good friend." Rabbi Yosi said, "A good neighbor." Rabbi Shimon said, "To foresee the repercussions of your actions." Rabbi Elazar said, "A good heart."
Rabbi Yochanon responded, "I concur with the view of Rebbi Elazar, for all of your ideals are contained in a "Good heart."

A "Good Heart" refers to a person who is pleasing - and pleasant - to others. Primarily, he has endless reserves of patience, distancing himself from all manner of anger. He responds to everyone with gentleness, regardless of the circumstance. What's more, even if someone wrongs him, he bears it, without issuing a harsh word. All of the words that flow from his lips are sweet and pleasant.
A person of such inner excellence is good to his family, friends, neighbors, as well as to the entire world. He also possesses the golden trait of generosity. For if he dedicates his heart and spirit to fulfill the will of others, he will surely grant them financial assistance.

"A Good Heart" includes every other good virtue because the steadfast desire to do absolute good, regardless of circumstance, is more difficult to attaint than the performance of a good deed. For it is easier to move one's body to do a good deed, than to devote one's entire heart - unequivocally - to goodness, decency, and bringing joy to others.
May we merit the wonderful character trait of a Good Heart," then we will be pleasing and pleasant to all of our family, friends, neighbors as well as the entire world.
Beloved the same G*d who created the universe knows our heart and loves us the same, what an amazing G*d we serve.
Happy Thanksgiving
http://youtu.be/8yQW_4zNt_w