In our yard, Baruch HaShem, we have a lemon tree and an orange tree. So, we look forward to lots of delicious, homemade lemonade and orange juice throughout the year.


But just before this Rosh Hashanah, at Hatarat Nedarim, I declared before a Bet Din of three that I relinquish ownership of said trees for all of the Shmitah year. Now, my family

...one of the primary reasons for the mitzvah of Shmitah.

can enjoy these fruits - and so can anyone else. That's right: anyone who wishes to walk by our house and pluck a lemon or orange, or even two, is more than welcome.


Now, in most years, when I see someone come by and help themselves to our fruit - without asking - I must admit I resent it (though I may not say anything). But this year, I want others, I need others to take those lemons, because when they do, they validate my non-ownership of the trees and allow me to enjoy that same fruit.


And that is one of the primary reasons for the mitzvah of Shmitah - freeing us up not only to devote more time to spiritual pursuits, but increasing our ability to give to others. When Israel was a mostly agricultural society, the fields would be open to the poor to enter as they please and fill up their baskets (up to 3 days worth). Though few of us are farmers today, the same sentiment still applies. Caring about and helping others builds love, unity and, most of all, nourishes our neshamot. Giving, from the heart, is magically anti-mathematical: the more we give of ourselves, the greater we become.


The famous pianist Liberace once became deathly ill and was told he had only a few weeks to live. During that time, he decided to give away all of his precious (some of them, priceless) possessions to those he loved. Then, to his doctors' great shock and surprise, he recovered. He was asked if he regretted having given away so much, now that he was back to being healthy.


He answered, "And what do you think caused my amazing recovery?"

Giving comes in many forms.



Giving comes in many forms, beyond checks and charity:


Give In: You don't always have to win every argument, or always have your way; compromise, concede sometimes, even if you know you are right.


Give Way: Let the other driver in, even if you lose a precious car-length; let someone else answer the question and have his moment in the sun, even if you could do it better.


Give Over: Share your knowledge and know-how with others who seek advice and wisdom; maybe you, who have "been through the ringer," can make it easier for someone just starting out.


But even giving has its limits. So remember: never Give Up!