One in a Million

The Rema’s cryptic comment, the final one in Ohr HaChaim, has sparked centuries of contemplation. He states, “Some say that one is obligated to increase in joy and feasting on the 14th of Adar I; however, this is not our practice. Nevertheless, one should increase their feasting slightly to satisfy the stringent opinions. ‘But the good-hearted has a continual feast’ (Proverbs 15:15).”

The first part of the comment is clear enough. In leap years, there are two months of Adar. Purim is celebrated in the second Adar. Should there be any celebration on the 14th of Adar Rishon? It is a machlokes. The Rema, therefore, advises some increase in feasting. However, why did the Rema add the verse from Mishlei: “But the good-hearted has a continual feast”?

The Aruch HaShulchan explains that perhaps the reader is hesitant to follow the Rema’s advice. He is reluctant to engage in meaningless partying. After all, some opinions state there is no reason for any increase in feasting during Adar Rishon. Therefore, the Rema is informing us that the main pathway towards avodas Hashem is through simcha. The individual should intend that his increase in feasting is to ensure that his avodas HaShem that day is done with joy. Therefore, even if it turns out that the halacha follows the opinion that there is no particular reason to increase feasting on Adar Rishon, he still accomplished something. Now his regular, daily avodas Hashem will be with simcha! It is considered a mitzvah celebration, as long as that is his intent.

Rebbe Akiva Eiger is quoted as offering a brilliant explanation of the Rema’s comment. The Gemara in Bava Basra (145a) offers a homiletic interpretation of “But the good-hearted has a continual feast.” The Gemara says this refers to one who studies Mishna. In certain ways, the study of Mishna is easier than Gemara. Opinions are succinctly stated. Therefore, when one is studying Mishna, he can be described as good-hearted.

The Mishna states in Megilla, “There is no difference between Adar Rishon and Adar Sheini except the reading of the megilla and matanos l’evyonim.” Tosfos in Megilla (6a) opines that the Mishna implies that one should also rejoice in Adar Rishon. Rejoicing isn’t listed as one of the differences between the two months. Yet, the Gemara states that the similarities between Adar Rishon and Adar Sheini are that one may not fast or have a eulogy on the 14th of either month. The implication is that they are indeed different regarding rejoicing. Do we follow the implication of the Mishna or the implication of the Gemara? The Rema comments, “But the good-hearted has a continual feast.” One should follow the Mishna!

The Baalei Mussar offer a different explanation of the pasuk, “But the good-hearted has a continual feast.” Everyone constantly makes choices about how to perceive their lives. One can choose to appreciate what they have or dwell on what they feel is missing. Moreover, any situation can be viewed in both a positive and negative light. Rabbi Zelig Pliskin, shlita, illustrates this with the example of someone stuck in a long line. Instead of focusing on the frustration of waiting and seeing it as a waste of time, the person could use this time constructively. Rabbi Yisrael Salanter pointed out that changing a negative trait can take a lifetime. Therefore, this waiting period could serve as a perfect opportunity to practice patience. One might think, “What a fantastic chance I have to work on being more patient!” Someone who masters the ability to reframe will experience a life filled with joy, much like being at an endless celebration.

Rabbi Zelig Pliskin was leading a discussion on this very idea of embracing happiness even in the most challenging situations. Suddenly, a gentleman in the crowd raised his hand, his brow furrowed with confusion. “Rabbi,” he exclaimed, “are you suggesting that when I find myself stranded on a rainy night with a flat tire, I’m expected to feel joyful and proclaim, ‘Yay! Hashem has blessed me with the opportunity to change a flat tire!’? That seems impossible! Surely, only one in a million people could ever attain such a mindset at that moment!”

In that instance, Rabbi Pliskin experienced a remarkable display of Divine providence unfolding right before him. The very person seated next to the initial questioner, eager to respond, stood up and spoke with sincerity. “Actually,” he began, his voice steady, “I had a strikingly similar experience just the other day.” The audience leaned in, curiosity piqued. “I was returning from my doctor’s appointment after my hernia surgery. After a long struggle with recovery, my doctor finally cleared me to lift heavy objects once more.”

With a glimmer of inspiration in his eyes, he continued, “As I drove home, my car suddenly got a flat tire. Instead of sinking into frustration or despair, I cried out joyfully, ‘Baruch Hashem! I am truly fortunate to be able to change this tire and lift heavy items all by myself!’”

The room breathed in his words, feeling the weight of his experience transform into something uplifting. But the first audience member, still wrestling with disbelief, couldn’t help but interject, “That’s the one in a million!”