Rabbi Berel Wein was once invited to a meeting with the editor of the Detroit Free Press. After introductions had been made, the editor told him the following story.
His mother, Mary, had immigrated to America from Ireland as an uneducated, 18-year-old peasant girl. She was hired as a domestic maid by an observant family. The head of the house was the president of the neighboring Orthodox shul.
Mary knew nothing about Judaism and had probably never met a Jew before arriving in America. The family went on vacation Mary's first December in America, leaving Mary alone in the house. They were scheduled to return on the night of December 24, and Mary realized that there would be no Christmas tree to greet them when they did. This bothered her greatly, and using the money the family had left her, she went out and purchased not only a Christmas tree but all kinds of festive decorations to hang on the front of the house.
When the family returned from vacation, they saw the Christmas tree through the living room window and the rest of the house festooned with holiday lights. They assumed that they had somehow pulled into the wrong driveway and drove around the block. But alas, it was their address.
The head of the family entered the house contemplating how to explain the Christmas tree and lights to the members of the shul, most of whom walked right past his house on their way to shul. Meanwhile, Mary was eagerly anticipating the family's excitement when they realized that they would not be without a Christmas tree.
"In my whole life no one has ever done such a beautiful thing for me as you did."
After entering the house, the head of the family called Mary into his study. He told her, "In my whole life no one has ever done such a beautiful thing for me as you did." Then he took out a $100 bill -- a very large sum in the middle of the Depression -- and gave it to her. Only after that did he explain that Jews do not have Christmas trees.
When he had finished telling the story, the editor told Rabbi Wein, "And that is why, there has never been an editorial critical of Israel in the Detroit Free Press since I became editor, and never will be as long as I am the editor."
The shul president's reaction to Mary's mistake -- sympathy instead of anger -- was not because he dreamed that one day her son would the editor of a major metropolitan paper, and thus in a position to aid Israel. (Israel was not yet born.) He acted as he did because it was the right thing to do.
That's what it means to be a Kiddush Hashem, to sanctify God's Name. It is a goal to which we can all strive.
(77) Devorah E. Goldberg, January 3, 2021 2:08 AM
Thanx. Repeat this article every Christmas Season.
I've already passed this article to my Gentile friends as well as a teaching moment for all of us Yidden of every stripe. Tolerance always wins as do kind words. A beautiful teaching tool.
(76) Anonymous, December 26, 2020 5:18 AM
Gorgeous and inspiring story. If only we could more often bless each other with this dignity ,respect and generosity when we are confronted in our lives with these religious/ cultural differences.
(75) Avraham Sonenthal, December 23, 2020 6:18 PM
This is a beautiful story
What a great story! Everyone should emulate what he did.
(74) Anonymous, December 23, 2020 4:36 PM
The editor referred to here, Neal Shine, retired in 1989
For the Detroiter who posted that the Detroit Free Press is anti-Israel / pro-Palestinian, this is not a recent story. Neil Shine retired as editor in 1989 and died in 2007. Too bad that the successor editor/s are biased against Israel.
(73) Aviel, December 23, 2020 4:18 PM
beautiful story and beautiful person
The lesson is powerful. How many Orthodox Jews would react positively to their home being mistakenly decorated for Christmas. Even saying merry Christmas to a Christian is a debatable subject and understandably. so. .Happy New Year less so, but still differing opinions. Here is a prominent Orthodox Jew making a decision to show respect and kindness when he was placed n a challenging situation.Jews who for whatever reason choose or must remain in galut face these tests and how we respond has long lasting effects as stated in this article.
(72) Nancy, December 23, 2020 11:05 AM
This story reminded me of something
Many years ago around this time a child I am acquainted with wished me a Merry Xmas. He had no idea that I am Jewish and he probably still doesn't. His wish was delivered in a small, sincere voice. I replied, same to you.
(71) URSULA KERSH, December 23, 2020 2:31 AM
VERY VERY TOUCHING.
(70) IL, December 23, 2020 1:47 AM
Honest mistake
For Jews who were brought up in Easter Europe after WWII and never get an education in Judaism (because practicing Judaism was punishable by law), having three is totally normal. New Year Tree, not Christmas three, has no religious meaning, not attached to any religion, and has wonderful sense of nostalgia. KIds get gifts, families gather together, pretty much like Hanukkah, only secular and very children-friendly. For vast majority of Jews who emigrated from ex-USSR New Year with its ornamented tree is the most warm and dear memory of their childhood.
(69) Dennis, December 23, 2020 12:14 AM
Deeds have consequences
Whether it be a good deed and kindness as shown by this man or not so good as when Joseph's brothers sold him into slavery. That led to the whole tribe being enslaved, but the good deed also brought a reward a generation later.
(68) Pastor David Swaggerty, December 22, 2020 11:39 PM
I love it.
Brings tears of joy to my heart. So much we need the tender understanding of differences while Realizing we all belong to HaShem.
Happy Hanukkah & Merry Christmas.
Pastor David
(67) Donna Holland, December 22, 2020 8:09 PM
A Beautiful Story!
This story shows love on both sides. The young girl who felt that the family was missing out on a Tree because they were away before the holiday and the Rabbi's response to be thankful for her kindness and offer his own. He also helped provide her with an understanding of his faith.
So important to not jump to conclusions and to always be kind.
(66) Andrea Chester, December 22, 2020 5:56 PM
One of the most beautiful stories
As a non-Jewish woman, reared in a traditional Christian home, this story is one I will treasure. The kindness, the sensitivity of that rabbi...the touching sweetness of young Mary’s heart...the whole thing illustrates what is best in people who are trying to follow GOD’s Ways. Thank you for printing this. May the best truths of both religious traditions light the way. Eventually, we will have no confusion over how to serve HaShem, but until then, may we treat each other with the love and respect shown in this story.
(65) Anonymous, December 22, 2020 5:06 PM
Gutta nashuma
When someone does something out of the goodness of his/her heart with no evil intentions, being kind in return is what a mensch does! I have had many surgeries on my back. When a Christian friend or acquaintance tells me he/she has prayed to Jesus for my recovery, the only thing to say in return is, ‘Thank you!’ All prayers on your behalf are a blessing. The person doing the praying means only good for you. A simple and gracious thank you is all you need to say.
(64) Marlene Dowling, December 21, 2020 4:51 PM
Amazing story
I really enjoyed the whole story.
(63) Gary Schuster, December 25, 2015 12:48 AM
The Christmas Tree
Beautiful story. Tells what we are supposed to do and be...a reflection of HaShem to this world. Thank you! Shalom!!
(62) Ella, December 23, 2012 4:04 PM
The heart of true Israel
Awesome,awesome story! May we all strive to have the heart of the Rabbi as a reflection of what Israel is about.
(61) Anonymous, January 1, 2012 7:53 AM
this only shows how 1 act of kindness can change life
ralph, December 22, 2015 6:43 PM
The Christmas tree
You are absolutely right . I wish there would be more !
(60) Elisabeth Soros, December 29, 2011 12:18 AM
The Chrismas Tree
For all goodness we must act positively.I am wondering, the Christians Tree have came from The Light of Menorah? Spread the Light and miracles of Hashem?
Merle, December 22, 2020 8:52 PM
Evergreens and lights
Many European pagan cultures decorated their homes with evergreen branches to display hope that the earth would once again turn green, and crops would grow. The decorated Christmas tree became popular in Germany and England in the 19th century. But festivals of lights are different, and older. In India, the Sikhs, Hindus, and Jains celebrate Diwali, a festival of lights, and it is an ancient tradition. Many cultures enjoy holidays with lights in winter, around the winter solstice. In winter days are short and nights are long. People yearn for the sun, and that's why they celebrate with lights in winter. Hanukah is a holiday that marks a special historic event, and therefore, although a Festival of Lights in winter, it is unique. When I was a child, perhaps eight years old, growing up in Brooklyn in a Jewish neighborhood, a young Swiss Christian couple moved into a basement apartment across the street from where my family lived. They knew very little English, and were shy. My mother befriended them, and helped them get used to their new life in America. That Christmas, they invited us in to see their little Christmas tree. They were so excited. It was entirely hand decorated. They had baked cookies in the shape of stars and moons, and hung them from the branches. They used actual candles, not bulbs, to provide light in the tree. I remember they were so sweet, so friendly, and felt so honored that we had come to see and admire what they had done. I don't know if it had religious significance for them. It seemed that friendship was most important. Of course it had no religious significance for us. But it was lovely to look at, and it was delightful to share their happiness with them. I have never seen a Christmas tree like that anywhere. What I remember most is how kind and helpful my mother was, and how kind they were in return.
(59) Anonymous, December 28, 2011 5:12 PM
i have been working in an antisemitic environment for several years and have a tendency to over react to any comment that might be misinterpreted. this helps remind me to respond to love with love
(58) Rita-Rivka Lewy., December 30, 2010 10:53 PM
Shmirat Halashon - watching what we say- has heavenly consequences
Hard as this mitzvah of shmirat halashon is to do, it is so clear from this incredibly touching story, that the heavenly consequences chazal warn us of are omnipresent. Let's make sure they are all letovah B"H!!! and that all of Klal Yisrael merit to benefit from our holding our tongue. Learning a lesson a day of the Chofetz Chaim is a great way to strengthen ourselves in this mitzvah.
(57) Lisa Aogen, December 30, 2010 4:00 PM
Moving...a beutiful example of how Jews should *ideally) perceive the world!!! May we all be worthy!
(56) penina sternfeld, December 29, 2010 6:33 PM
this is a beautiful story,very touching and inspiring
(55) Anonymous, December 28, 2010 7:54 PM
should have...
My babysitter came back after X-mas (and after she had received a nice gift from our family for her holiday) with a platter of home-made cookies. We had assumed she knew, we could not eat anything out of our house. Obviously she didn't understand that 100%. I thanked her but thought it best to tell her right away, that we won't be able to eat it. I also wanted to be very clear about this, so that she should never again bring anything and G-D forbid give my little daughter. I did feel bad about my reaction though and admire the reaction in the story.
(54) Anonymous, December 28, 2010 4:20 PM
love wld be a better word then like for this beautiful article :)
love wld be a better word then like for this beautiful article :)
(53) Rita Goldblatt, December 26, 2010 4:54 PM
Wow!
Not only did this story story give me goose bumps but I realized that this observant Jewish man practiced chesed in the truest sen se in his reactions to this woman's well intentioned actions. Wow! This is one example I will truly emulate from now on.
(52) Temima Berkovitz, December 25, 2010 11:39 PM
Love this story
I love this story and get goosebumps every time i hear it.
(51) Beverly Kurtin, December 24, 2010 8:29 PM
That's sweet
This is the time of the year when the words, "Merry Christmas." is all over the place. When clerks say those words to me, I thank them and wish them a happy new year. Then I mention that I'm Jewish and say, "Roses are reddish, violets are bluish, if it wasn't for Christmas, we'd ALL be Jewish." It always gets a chuckle and lets them know I'm not offended.
(50) Margy, December 24, 2010 12:40 PM
The Christmas Tree
What a beautiful story and what a perfect example of grace and righteousness. The act of putting up the tree was an extension of Mary's love and gratitude toward the family; their acceptance of the tree and the blessing that followed was their love and acceptance of not only Mary, but humanity. The Jewish family was able to accept and appreciate what Mary had done instead of getting insulted and infuriated or what was meant to be an act of generosity. In this story -- everyone wins. It was love extended and accepted. Too bad we Christians can't learn from this example.
(49) Marcia, December 23, 2010 11:45 PM
This story touched my heart
So many times when people make mistakes, others get offended. This story shows a true rigthteous man. I will think of Mary when I see a Christmas tree. Kindness repaid with more kindness. if people really behaved like that, there would be less strife in the world
(48) Marvin L. Piller, December 23, 2010 8:43 PM
HOLINESS REQUIRES ACTION
To turn provoking events into acts of kindness, understanding and support, is both an act of wisdom an and a blessing.
(47) Anonymous, December 23, 2010 7:35 PM
Moved to tears
I am a non-Jewish lady who has worked for years for Orthodox Jews. My father grew up in Detroit during the depression years. I was moved to tears by this story - Mary, motivated by her Christian faith does a tiring and unselfless deed for her Jewish employer, The shul president, motivated by his Jewish faith demonstrated grace, understanding and generosity. I wish so much that there was more good will today between Jews and Christians and it saddens me when I hear so-called Christian pastors, and priests, and bishops, etc. call Israel an apartheid state and also teach falsely that God is finished with the Jews when the Christian scriptures say exactly the opposite. They provoke God's wrath by this.
(46) anonymous, December 23, 2010 6:53 PM
This really is a MUST READ!
Every week you have a "must read", and, in general, they range from very good to excellent; (I've forwarded many of the links to many.) But, this one really is a MUST READ! Thank you!
(45) Evelyn Demanuele, December 23, 2010 6:23 AM
The Christmas Tree
What a wonderful story! Those who will bless Israel and the Jewish people will be blessed and those who curse Israel and the Jewish people will be cursed!
(44) Anonymous, December 23, 2010 12:43 AM
Beautiful, Beautiful, Beautiful!!!
Wow. A true Kiddush Hashem!
(43) Kimberlynn Shaffer-Silva, December 22, 2010 2:22 PM
Tsedaka of the heart
This beautiful story is the true meaning of charity. The Rabbi taught that young girl true kindness and charity, and she in turn taught it to her son, who has now grown to have an understanding of Jews that most people are not blessed to have the pleasure of.
(42) Doron, December 22, 2010 11:51 AM
Penny... for Your Thoughts...
Penny, You missed the whole point of the story. The point is that when one party makes a mistake, but does so with kindness at its root, the other party is obligated to treat the first party and the mistake that was made with equal, if not more, kindness. There are many studies showing how the BBC is extremely biased towards Israel. The BBC is not kind; it is ruthless when it comes to Israel. Israel, in turn, tries desperately to defend itself, but even though it is not obligated to do so, it gives the BBC the respect that any major news service should get. It listens, it addresses the true issues, and then, when it appears that no one cares, it turns and minds its own business, protecting its inhabitants from terror and genocidal maniacs... So, for your thoughts on the subject, I think I'll take my penny back. Kind regards, Doron
(41) Sherry, December 22, 2010 4:41 AM
Wise decision
How kind and caring a reaction that truly represents Faith, Christmas held in the heart through many beautiful demonstrations, a Christmas, kind priestly words, love for one another.
(40) Penny, December 22, 2010 4:16 AM
Lovely story, but...
The Rabbi and Mary are both utterly fantastic people and it's a truly inspiring story for the holiday season, but Mary's son's reaction is very troubling to me. I would be extremely uncomfortable if I heard that a supposedly unbiased newspaper refused to publish any critical articles about a certain country just because of the personal feelings of its editor. If that is actually true, I'll be sticking with the BBC.
(39) Anonymous, December 22, 2010 3:19 AM
Kindness and thoughtfullness are part of Kiddush HaShem
This story also teaches never to judge a book by its cover as well as kindness.
(38) Diane Gowell, December 21, 2010 9:07 PM
"The spirit of Christmas
I loved this story because even though the Jewish man did not believe in Christmas, he demonstrated the Love of God Almighty, which is the true spirit of Christmas!
(37) suzi, December 21, 2010 8:52 PM
She gave her greatest gift, he gave his greatest gift.
This is so beautiful. I am still tearing. This is a man who truly understood the meaning of G-D, good, and true grace. My grandfather was not a Rabbi, and was very religious, orthodox, and beautifully kind and understanding. He practiced his religion with love and honor. This is exactly, and entirely, what he would have done. What a blessing this man was on this earth. This is a truly pious person. A perfect example of how I imagine G-D would want us to teach, and thank people, as the Jews we are, and should aspire to be. This was altruistic, which turned into a great gift in the future. Altruism is rare, if not almost non existent; this is the 1st example of true altruism of which I am aware. That was an indication of a magnificent person. What magnanimous behavior. This is an exquisite example of G-D’S splendor in humanity.
(36) john hirsch, December 21, 2010 8:18 PM
Beautiful!
Touching story; I am forwaring it to as many people as I can.
(35) Jan, December 21, 2010 7:58 PM
Wow!
Wow is all I can really say. Beautiful story!
(34) Anonymous, December 21, 2010 7:12 PM
kiddush hashem
i grew up in Cleveland Ohio in the 1950's, when the Jewish population was quite small. My neighbors where religious catholics. Because my parents taught us to be tolerant and respectful ot other religions, we also were able to mekadesh the nameof Hashem many a time. It went so far as my freind's mother not allowing me to come into her kitchen-only becuase she did not want me to be tempted by non kosher foods.I walked my best friend Linda to church, and waited outside for her "confession". I always felt that my family provided them with only pleasant and positive feelings towards Jewish people.
(33) Marc Gelmon, December 21, 2010 7:12 PM
Lovely
That really was beautiful, how kind and thoughtful of this woman, and thankfully this man realized it was done out of innocence and such kindheartedness that he was able to treat her with dignity and return the kindness.
(32) Art Simon, December 21, 2010 4:11 PM
Great Editor
The editor of the Detroit Free Press mentioned in this article is the late Neal Shine. He started as a copy boy and rose thru the ranks to become editor. He was very honest, respected and is truly missed in the Detroit area. I love this story.
(31) marlene rosenberg, December 21, 2010 4:06 PM
I think I'm going to cry. That is so touching and that man had so much compassion & wisdom.
(30) Gavriela, December 21, 2010 4:02 PM
wonderful story
It warms my heart. I am smiling while at the same time a tear is threatening to drop from each of my eyes. Now I'm getting a lump in my throat. Thank you for sharing this!
(29) Margo, December 21, 2010 3:49 PM
Wonderful, compassionate response by the Rabbi. How fabulous that Mary took the lesson without rancor and passed it along to her son! Would that the world would operate this way forever, with tolerance, good will and insight. Thanks for passing it along!
(28) zblago, December 21, 2010 3:03 PM
great reaction, i love it
(27) SusanE, December 20, 2010 2:13 PM
Warm and Lovely Story.
Thank you for sharing this story again this year. The president of the shul and Mary's son the editor are two fine, compassionate men.
(26) Erica, December 19, 2010 10:07 PM
This is the kind of story that deserves re-telling
Lovely and compassionate, the President wasn't threatened and responded with understanding and kindness. I wish every child could hear this story growing up because it models something rare in our society and our world. Thanks for sharing this.
(25) Anonymous, August 12, 2010 2:16 AM
WONDERFUL Story!
Great reaction!
(24) Anonymous, December 27, 2009 4:06 AM
Wow! Beautiful story. You never truly know the full impact of your actions.
(23) cjais, December 27, 2009 1:25 AM
Amazing story of Kiddush Hashem and respect for others.
(22) Wow!, December 27, 2009 12:55 AM
How beautiful!
This story truly shows the power of making a kiddush Hashem-thank you for sharing!
(21) Jürgen, December 26, 2009 3:56 PM
A heart touching story
When would be all people so appreciative, it would be peace.
(20) Eli, December 25, 2009 3:52 PM
Kol hakavod
This is so interesting. Just yesterday we gave our home cleaning lady a nice wrapped gift for Christmas. In almost tears she was so touched by the fact that not only did we give her such a nice gift, but the other observant family she works for also gave her $100 bonus. She said that the Jews are so nice, and that she dosn't have family here in the US. We don't realize haw easy and cheap iut is to make a Kiddush Hashem.
(19) Sarah Bartman, December 25, 2009 5:33 AM
It is a beautiful story the maid didn't know and she did her best and the Rabi was a very kind person to do what he did. I loved it.this we call respect.
(18) manuel, December 25, 2009 3:01 AM
Setting an example for all us Jews
this simple tale is the best Christmas story I have ever read Remembers me when I was invited to a barbecue , in the mountains, far away, by a vineyard owner, he got his best wines (red and white), a great landscape, and of course, the best meat he could cookl !!!! the He said help yourself ..., it was just only roasted pork to eat, he did not know...
(17) Anonymous, December 24, 2009 5:27 PM
true kiddush hasham
If there was more real chesed in the world, I do believe peace would prevail.This is an example of kiddush hasham, not bound by time and place, far reaching. We need so much more of this today.
(16) Susan, December 23, 2009 12:40 PM
Christmas Tree
G-D bless the rabbi and all involved. THAT is what will bring true peace.
(15) raiz, December 22, 2009 8:33 PM
brought tears to my eyes- really
what a beautiful example of depth, maturity, and love of all. H' Should grant us all this level of wisdom
(14) Chana, December 22, 2009 7:17 PM
I needed to read this right about now....
You know, I was just commenting last night about how annoying it is to have people, who are well aware that I am Jewish, wish me a Merry X-mas. I figured if they didn't know I was Jewish, that's acceptable, but if they did, I had to wonder if they were trying to push their beliefs on me. After reading this article, however, I am reminded of just how little many gentiles actually know about Judaism. Thank you for sharing ^_^
(13) Anonymous, December 21, 2009 6:09 PM
What a wonderful message !
Thank you for this inspiration. It is truly a beautiful story of real Jewish values.
(12) Margarita, December 21, 2009 2:46 PM
Kindness and Understanding
I love this beautiful story. The maid was only thinking of the happiness of the family that she worked for. That was so kind of her to feel that way. And her boss, was a very kind person, to understand what it was that she was trying to do, and that she ment well. I remember someone who sent a Christmas Card to a Jewish family, and the head of the house, was kind and he thanked them for their thought, and he explained to them that he was Jewish, and that he didn't celebrate Christmas. But he was kind and understanding to them. And from than on, they understood.
(11) Ida, December 21, 2009 2:37 PM
Neal Shine was a mentsch!
Although the editor wasn't mentioned by name in this story, I know for a fact it was Neal Shine, one of the best and brightest editors in the Detroit area. He was a mentsch, through and through and our community is poorer because he is gone. This story is a great example of who he was and how he ran his paper. What a wonderful thing to read online today!
(10) sarah shapiro, December 21, 2009 11:54 AM
Hurrah!!!
May we emulate this goodness!
(9) Anonymous, December 21, 2009 3:52 AM
thanks for this beautiful reminder
that all of our interactions matter and can have cosmic effects on us and the world around us.
(8) ruth, December 21, 2009 1:05 AM
finding the sacred in each other
This is a beautiful story. It is also a story about lights, and the inner light that reflects love, is Mary's story. For me, it was obvious that any Orthodox Jew, anyone who believes in the sacred light that is God's gift to us all, and its expression, would know this woman acted out of goodness and beauty. And those Christmas lights were not profane but sacred, because she did it for love.
(7) Rachel, December 21, 2009 12:43 AM
Thank you for this wonderful story
Mary's employers were obviously wonderful people even before leaving for their December vacation. An Orthodox convert, I'm from an Irish-American Catholic family and heard growing up about the deprivations of the depression, as well as the bad times in 19th century Ireland. That this teenaged immigrant girl wanted to make this family happy in the only way she knew -- with the little money she had -- speaks volumes about the relationship she had with this family. And indeed, her actions, too, were meant as a Kiddush Hashem.
(6) Lois Whitney, December 20, 2009 11:37 PM
Reaction to Christmas tree..
Thank you.. Am I reading it wrong? Did not the President of the shul react with sympathy and graditude and NOT anger and shouts??.
(5) Rachel leah, December 20, 2009 9:59 PM
A timely reminder, for sure! Just Jew It!
Thanks, i keep needing reminders and help on how to respond to this delicate situations with the proper middos. This month gives us a lot of opportunities to teach. the key is to be respectful and "Just Jew It!'
(4) Anonymous, December 20, 2009 8:49 PM
Great story and message - thanks!
(3) Jay Shayevitz, December 20, 2009 8:47 PM
Don't feel good about the Free Press
As a former resident of Detroit (Oak Park), I can attest that this story is not completely true. Unfortunately the Detroit Free Press is one of the most anti-Israel papers in the US. Numerous editorials critical of Israel and supportive of "Palestinians" have appeared over the years, even at the height of the 2000 Intifada, when Jews were being slaughtered by the dozens by suicide bombers. Recently Detroit papers have fallen on hard times, restricting paper publication and delivery. Could there be, perhaps, a connection?
(2) Beth Newman, December 20, 2009 8:14 PM
Ahavas Yisroel, timeless and true, knows no boundaries, no division
There will always be beauty and truth, Hashem and Torah, in all acts of kindness and respect for our fellow man - thank you for sharing.
(1) Kip Gonzales, December 20, 2009 8:09 PM
Cast your bread upon the waters, and it will return to you after many days...
I have a good friend here in Germany, Adolf, (He refuses to be called by any other name than Adi, which means friend in Hebrew.) Adi was just about 5 or six years old in that first winter after World War II. Everyone was hungry. Nearby was a camp for displaced persons. In the camp were some Jewish holocaust survivors. Little Adi, bright and perceptive for his age, only knew that these people had suffered greatly for their faith at the hand of the Nazis. One of them had received a package from some Jewish relief agency. In the package was also chocolate. This kind man gave a bar of chocolate to hungry little Adi, who had never seen chocolate. Adi was so touched and impressed, that he always stood up for Jewish interests. Today he is a Christian with such a heart for Israel. He and his wife travel often to Israel and do a lot to help Germans understand and love the Jewish people. Acts of kindness to people of other faiths reflects the goodness of HaShem, and I love it when stories like that are carried on to the next generations, and these grandchildren refuse to participate in anti-semitism!