The Secret of Being Pleasant to HaShem
"Rabbi Chanina ben Dosa says: 'One who is pleasant to his fellow man, is pleasant to HaShem.'" (Pirkei Avot 3:13).
Can there be anything more valuable and gratifying than knowing the secret of how to be "pleasant to HaShem"? In a genuinely "delicious" lesson, Rabbi Chanina ben Dosa reveals the prestige of being "pleasant to HaShem" is attained by "being pleasant to our fellow man!" It is beautiful to reflect on the idea that HaShem chose the attribute of man" being pleasant to his fellow" as the criteria for "man to be pleasant to HaShem!"
The more we are aware of the secret of being "pleasant to HaShem," the more we will be inspired to be pleasant to others. Yet, to be considered "pleasant to others" is not quite as easy as it sounds. Earning the status of "being pleasant to others" requires persistence and perseverance. In the sensitive realm of interpersonal relationships, even one display of insensitivity can compromise one's status as "a pleasant person." Therefore, to enjoy the honor of "being pleasant to others," we need to be consistently pleasing to every person, in every situation.
Always be as "soft as butter" and as "sweet as honey" to your fellow person, and attain the esteem of being "pleasant to HaShem." Receive His boundless blessings, compassion, and assistance.
Imagine that you are a guest in the tent of Avraham Avinu. Envision Avraham Avinu showering you with joy, warmth, honor, and loving-kindness as he serves you a sumptuous meal. Be inspired to emulate the joy, kindness, and graciousness of Avraham Avinu. Be joyful, kind, and pleasant to your family and friends, and enjoy the merit and delight of being "pleasant to HaShem."
(Based on Tomer Deborah of Rav Moshe Cordevaro)
