The Eternal Investment Printed with permission from "The Chesed Boomerang" by Jack Doueck www.judaicapress.com The Torah (Levit. 25:35) commands us: If your brother becomes poor and his means fail with you then you shall uphold him.” The mitzvah of “upholding” is incumbent upon us all. About ten years ago, a friend approached me for a loan. He still did not repay the last loan I gave him. I wondered to myself if I would ever see the money again. My mind was focused on my material possessions (i.e. my money) not on him and his plight. Nor was my mind focused on what might be my future if I did grant him the loan. The next week, my stock broker called me and told me that he recommend I buy a certain stock that was about to do an IPO (initial public offering). He said it would be a good investment for me. Immediately, I told him to buy the stock for me. “How much can I buy?” I asked. For a stock, which can be a good investment for the future, I did not hesitate to put up the money. For a loan, which will be an eternal investment, my mind held me back. When my friend approached me for the loan, he had little to gain — just money to help him get by. I, on the other hand, as the bestower of kindness, had the opportunity to fulfill a commandment of the Torah. The “return on investment” is eternal. I should have rejoiced. I should have responded to my friend as enthusiastically as I responded to my broker. I should have asked: “How much can I lend you?” Return to 'Our Tradition' Menu