Do you feel good about yourself when you give, whether of your time or your money, to help others? You have every right to, of course. But Ira Riklis, like others who follow traditional Jewish beliefs, understands that such actions are not “Charity”—something special that you’ve done that goes beyond what’s expected. Instead, it’s something that’s an integral part of being a spiritual person.
In this system of belief, such acts—known as tzedakah—are considered a way to restore justice to the world by giving back to others what has always belonged to them, including basic rights to food, clothing, shelter and the ability to sustain themselves. Ira Riklis also knows that there are levels, from lower to higher, of how and in what spirit such acts should be made. At the lowest level are gifts giving begrudgingly and only after being asked. At the highest level are those acts done willingly and with a grateful heart and in a fashion that does not demean the dignity of those who receive your gifts.