Accepting a Rusty Penny: J K Rowling and the Power of Forgiveness

J K Rowling's reluctance to forgive Dan and Emma is understandable, but a story from Reb Shlomo Carlebach shows us why she should be more generous. Reb Shlomo tells of a miser who has never given a penny of charity in all his life. Because all he ever offers is a single rusty penny. We assume he offers this to show his disdain for all who ask him for help. But are we correct?Listen above to learn the full story. This is only a short podcast today. Hastily recorded in the midst of Passover preparations. But with an important lesson that we need to heed in these toxic unforgiving times.JK Rowling's tweet can be found here: https://twitter.com/jk_rowling/status/1778124467027267804The Times article can be found here: https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/jk-rowling-i-wont-forgive-harry-potter-stars-over-pro-trans-views-fp79wpbvnIt's very, very difficult to offer that first rusty penny. We have to help people find the strength to go back and then say, “Yes, I was wrong about this and I was also wrong about that.” And then people can actually find the strength to make amends properly.And if we act in a miserly way ourselves, and we reject out of hand the tiny little offerings of apologies that come our way; if we do that then we take away the opportunity to pull people out of the rabbit holes that they are buried in.Because very often we see what appears to be some self-righteous, nasty person. How dare they think that a single rusty penny will make it all better?But maybe it's a hand reaching up and they are saying: “Please grab my hand. Give me a little, little pull to help me come out.”Reb Shlomo Carlebach’s story “A Bit of Charity” can be found in the book Shlomo’s Stories: Selected TalesThe most important parts of the story can also be found here: https://issuu.com/jewishhome/docs/currentissue_3816061d4e388f/64 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit shirabatya.substack.com