E Mussar - Sabedoria para o Crescimento Pessoal: SF - The Importance of a Positive Inner Dialogue

segunda-feira, 4 de abril de 2022

SF - The Importance of a Positive Inner Dialogue

"Something like a tza'arat affliction has appeared in the walls of the house" (Vayikra 14:35). Just as a tza'arat affliction appeared on the skin as a punishment for slander, it could also appear on the walls of a house. Even if the homeowner was an expert in the laws of tza'arat he may not rule that it was tza'arat. When delivering a report, even about oneself, one should never pronounce a negative ruling. Rather, he should express his opinion as a doubt: "This seems like tza'arat." Leaving a degree of uncertainty gives hope, that there is still a chance that things will turn out good. On the other hand, when giving a positive opinion, he should express himself with optimism and certainty. His hopefulness will boost the spirits of the receiver of the report and give him new wellsprings of strength and confidence.

One of the rules of proper speech is to never pronounce a negative judgement, i.e., don't proclaim bad news.

Speak all of your words with gentleness and pleasantness. Even when things seem negative, preserve your friend's confidence and hope by using senstive and gentle words. When giving good news speak with postiveness and enthusiasm with the intention to encourage your friend.

(Based on Rashi and Da'at Torah)