A wealthy merchant made known that anyone in his city in need of a loan should come to him, and he would receive the entire sum that he needed.

Upon hearing of the wealthy merchant’s offer, many people came to his home. The wealthy merchant sat at his desk with his notepad opened in front of him. He gave each person the sum of money that he needed, and then jotted down the amount in his notepad. Some time later, the wealthy merchant realized that of all the people he had lent money to, not one had paid him back.

It happened to be, that one of the people who had borrowed money truly did not have the means of repaying the debt. He decided to go to the wealthy merchant and explain why he was late in returning his money. He hoped that the man would be kindhearted and understand his situation.

Upon hearing the man’s explanation as to why he was unable to repay the loan, the wealthy merchant responded:

“I certainly excuse you of not having repaid me, as I see that you are speaking the truth. I have but one request to make of you, please go throughout the city tell the rest of my debtors to pay me back.”

We are all indebted to the Holy One, blessed be He for the abundance of kindliness that He showers upon us at each and every moment. But due to our small stature and limited skills and faith, we are incapable of repaying that debt. What we can do, though, is speak to others and inspire them regarding matters of Heavenly gifts, reminding them that they too, are indebted to to the Holy One, blessed be He.

May all your tales end with shalom