Shamai said, 'Offer a little help and do a lot.'" Often people promise they will do a lot to help their friend in time of need. Yet, despite their assurances and good intentions, they end up doing very little. Shamai taught that it is best to make a modest promise to provide help for your friend. Ultimately, when your friend needs your support, do a great deal more than you originally promised. For example, when the three desert travelers came to Avraham Avinu, he told them, "I will serve you a little bread to eat." Yet, ultimately, he served them a sumptuous banquet.
When we offer to help others, it is appropriate to first express ourselves with humility and graciousness, and then actively help them with as much kindness as we can.
Envision the kindness and gentleness of Avraham, offering to share a little bread with the desert travelers. Sense how he welcomes them with care, sensitivity, and love. See him provide them with a sumptuous meal, personally serving them with kindness, warmth and compassion. Speak modestly when you volunteer to help others, and help them with the maximum effort you can make.
(Based on the commentary of Rashi to Pirkei Avos 1:15)
