ותפארת לו מן האדם (אבות ב:א)

When the Bilgoray Rav zt”l served as Rav in Bilgoray (before WWII), he was known for his Ahavas Yisroel – love for his fellow Yid – and for making peace between opposing parties.  He always had a kind word for everyone and demonstrated the essence of maintaining harmonious relationships. 

A bachelor named Yechezkel lived in Bilgoray. He was an arrogant wood merchant who was despised by everyone. People avoided him, and no one sought his friendship.  

Sometime after the Bilgoray Rav was appointed Rav in the city, Yechezkel was curious to learn about the new Rav and decided to challenge him.

One day, Yechezkel, as was appropriate for his behavior, stormed into the home of the Bilgoray Rav home without as much as knocking on the door and waiting to be called inside.  The Bilgoray Rav was not fazed. He grasped whom he was dealing with and greeted him warmly.  The Rav called out to his Rebbetzin: “Ah! Chatzkal is here. We are not honored with such an esteemed guest every day. Please prepare some refreshments.”

The Rebbetzin quickly brought in some refreshments, and the Bilgoray Rav sat Yechezkel down for some light refreshments and a friendly chat.  This unexpected turn of events overtook Yechezkel; when was the last time someone accorded him some friendship?! 

Yechezkel left the Rav’s home a transformed man. He started being generous to others, donating wood to all the area’s shuls, mikvahs, and community facilities—thanks to the affectionate gesture of the Bilogoray Rav Zt”l.