This morning at Breakfast & a Class,
we explored one of the Torah’s most challenging mitzvot—not simply
giving tzedakah, but learning how to give with an open heart. Beginning
with the powerful verses in Parashat Re’eh, we examined the Torah’s remarkable order: first, “Do not harden your heart,” and only afterward, “Do not close your hand.” Through the teachings of Chazal and the wisdom of Rabbi Asher Abittan זצ״ל, we discovered that Judaism asks not only what we give, but who we are while we are giving.

The
class centers around a very personal experience that took place
immediately after a Sunday morning shiur, when a chance encounter
outside the synagogue became the continuation of the lesson itself.
Together we explore what Rabbi Yisrael Salanter, the Brisker Rav, and
the Gemara in Bava Batra
teach us about restoring dignity, offering encouragement, and
recognizing the image of HaShem in every person we meet. Sometimes the
greatest act of kindness is not opening our wallet—it is opening our
heart.