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How to Preserve Your Wealth \ Parables of the Ben Ish Chai D'var Torah: There was once a ladder with ten rungs. Even though each rung was exactly the same size, the top rung felt that it was superior to all the rungs below it. Looking down with arrogance at the lower rungs, the top rung called out, "I have been chosen to stand above you. Therefore, I am the greatest and most important rung of all!" At that moment a passerby heard the boasting of the top rung. He reached out and turned the ladder around. The bottom rung felt itself flying to the top, while the top rung found itself falling to the lowest point. When the arrogant rung saw its downfall it regretted its conceit. The lower rung, which was now perched on top, was very careful not to entertain any feelings of pride, so as not to suffer the fate of the prideful rung. Moral: The ladder in this parable alludes to the dynamics of wealth. From our earthly perspective, it seems money comes to our hands through our own efforts. In truth, every penny that comes to our hands is decreed from Heaven. HaShem, alone, decides who will be rich and who will be poor.
Application: If you are wealthy, remind yourself that it is HaShem Who blessed you with prosperity. By reflecting on this truth, you will maintain a sense of humility and retain your wealth. If you not wealthy, reflect on the fact that it is the decree of HaShem that determines your financial status. (Based on Mashal V'Nimshal of the Ben Ish Chai ) The Salant Foundation is currently looking for a Shul or community to partner with us in sharing the merit of the unique and important Salant Kollel. There are practical and easy ways (such as adoptakollel.org) to create a special mutual relationship between the Kollel and a Shul or community. If you think your Shul or community or workplace might want to participate in supporting the Salant Kollel, please contact Rabbi Zvi Miller at salantorg@gmail.com, and we will discuss how to implement your idea. Thank you! | 
