I was talking to one of my customers the other day. I was busy and she likes to talk, but I did not cut her off. You often think you know what the other person is going to say, but if you let them go on, you can be surprised.

In response to a comment she made about religion, I said, "You have to have faith."

She said, "No, not faith. What is important is to have experience."

She said, "Who is wise?". I shrugged over the phone. She said, "One who learns from all people."

From Pirkei Avot (Ethics of Our Fathers - Talmud)

Ben (the son of) Zoma said:

Who is wise?

He who learns from all people, as it is said: 'From all those who taught me I gained understanding' (Psalms 119:99).

Who is strong?

He who conquers his evil inclination, as it is said: 'Better is one slow to anger than a strong man, and one who rules over his spirit than a conqueror of a city' (Proverbs 16:32).

Who is rich?

He who is satisfied with his lot, as it is said: 'When you eat the toil of your hands you are fortunate and it is good for you' (Psalms 128:2). 'You are fortunate' -- in this world; 'and it is good for you' -- in the World to Come.

Who is honored?

He who honors others, as it is said: 'For those who honor Me will I honor, and those who scorn Me will be degraded' (I Samuel 2:30)."

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By Andrew Weitzen, DanceCalendar.info, Bronze Inc. (c) 2010.

Andrew Weitzen is the author of Partnership Dancing™, How to Communicate Every Step in Every Social Dance Unambiguously.