The telephone rang several times at the Chabad house this week and this is what the people said:
“Rabbi, can you explain the Kabbalistic significance of the name Ado-Nai?”
“I had a prophecy about which tunnel the children from the hospital in Gaza are hiding in, can you let them know?
“My daughter was run over by a motorcycle in S. Paulo, and died of internal bleeding. Can you explain, why?”
For many of you that run businesses, I am certain you are surprised and maybe even annoyed at the questions you get from your staff and associates. However, there is one really important underlying factor behind all of these questions. The people felt comfortable enough with you, to ask these questions.
What do you need to do to make or keep a strong bond between the people around you?
The Story
The Baal Shem Tov once told over a story about a king that sent his son to study abroad. With time the son got used to his new environment and refused to return. The King would send important ministers, but none succeeded in bringing back the prince. One minister, a clever one, got dressed as a commoner and went to meet the prince. He befriended him and with time, spoke with the prince instead of to the prince. A bond was created and the son eventually returned to the palace.
The Torah shares the story of Noach getting drunk for one reason: In order to open our eyes and see how the Torah is relatable. Once we feel a connection with the Torah, therefore, we can now embrace the other parts of the Torah.
People share with me, and I am certain with you, some of the most personal and foolish ideas. Just remember, hearing them out is a way of bonding. So that later on, when you have something to say, they will actually listen to you, as you have already connected.
