As a rebbi in Darchei Torah, I have been attending the Yeshiva’s annual
dinner for over 20 years. I cannot forget a story told by an honoree at the
very first dinner I attended, because it made me feel so fortunate to be
working for Rabbi Yaakov Bender.
A woman in a very difficult marriage had been forced to leave her house
with her children and move into a furnished apartment. The kitchen
cupboards and refrigerator were empty — literally.
This honoree was in conversation with Rabbi Bender in his yeshiva office
when Rabbi Bender summoned Mr. Torres, who was the school custodian
at that time. He gave Mr. Torres money and a detailed grocery list, along
with the woman’s new address, and instructed him to purchase the items
and deliver them.
Mr. Torres left on his mission and Rabbi Bender resumed his
conversation with the honoree. Around a half-hour later,
Rabbi Bender called Mr. Torres on his cellphone. After
ascertaining that the groceries had been purchased,
Rabbi Bender said, “Mr. Torres, please find the cookies
and put them at the very top of one of the bags. I want
the children to be able to have some cookies as soon
as the groceries arrive.”
That is Rabbi Bender, the
man who is always thinking
about everyone else.
January 14, 2018
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תשע“ח טבת לכ“ח אור