Demands Take Two

When we ask someone to do something for us, what level of completion do we expect? Of course, we all expect the job to be done, but how well? If we did it ourselves, we'd go the extra mile and make it perfect, but if someone else does it they might simply do the bare minimum. Is that fair or should we expect more, and is that expectation unrealistic or not?

Let's continue the discussion through Sunday.

Demands

This week's value is based on an expression in the Babylonian Talmud, in the Tractate Bava Batra.

“We are forbidden to make a decree on the community that the majority will find unbearable.”

The value is not to make unrealistic demands on others. Discuss your thoughts on this concept. Have you been a recipient of such a demand? Or have you made such demands on others? Also, do you believe this is a fair idea?

How do we judge others' work versus our own? What kind of barometer do you use?

I have more to say on this idea, so post by Wednesday 5PM for full credit, and be ready for a second set of marks from the second half of the week.

Acting Fairly Towards Everyone

This is a rather difficult value. Everyone deserves our individual attention and respect, but we are quick to respond to those with whom have had good experiences before hand. The Torah gives a very tough command, not just to act fairly towards our friends, but even more so towards our 'enemies.'

“When you encounter your enemy’s ox or donkey wandering, you must take it back to him.” --Exodus 23:4

• Can you think of modern day examples for this value?
  
• In addition, what strategies can you come up with to help us respond to one another?

Bal Tashchit

We began the discussion last week as to the destruction of the trees, when we looked at the concept of Bal Tashchit--'Do not destroy.' The Torah explicitly prohibits destroying fruit trees. Do you think there are times when it would be appropriate? I am writing the verse below, and I want you to speak for the trees, are there times when destruction might have to occur? Do not rely solely on your thoughts for this one, bring in sources to make your case. (The sources may be children's books, hint hint.)
“When you besiege a city for many days to wage war against it to capture it, you shall not destroy its trees by wielding an ax against them; you may eat from them, but you shall not cut them down. Is the tree of the field a man that you besiege?!” --Deuteronomy 20:19

Sources

“Whoever repeats a statement in the name of the one who said it brings redemption to the world.” –Pirkei Avot 6:6

I venture to propose that we all attempt to be unique and creative individuals. We are not the carbon copy of any other human being, yet we all learn ideas from others. Sometimes we acknowledge our mentors and sources and sometimes we try to pass them along as our own. What do you think about the importance of quoting not only our ideas but also giving them the credit that they deserve? Also, do you think there is a way to 'borrow' ideas and still maintain you unique identity?
I'm going to tally the points on Thursday. POST AWAY!