By Rabbi Yehuda Chitrik
One of the followers of Reb Levi Yitzchak possessed a unique skill which was eagerly sought after by lumber merchants. He was able to assess the worth of forest trees after a cursory examination. His talent was valued highly, since a lumber merchant often had to decide very quickly whether or not to purchase a forest.
Once, a wealthy lumber merchant attempted to hire this chasid, offering him a handsome salary. "Where is your business located?" asked the broker.
"In a town near the forest-filled districts of Siberia."
"That town is far-removed from the Jewish community. How will I educate my children?"
"That is no problem. You may hire a teacher for them at my expense."
"As you know, I am a chasid and require a mikva to immerse in very morning."
"I will build a mikva on the premises."
"What about a minyan?"
"I have eight Jewish men working for me there. You and your children's teacher will make ten."
"I would like to consult my Rebbe before making any kind of commitment. I will give you an answer in a few days."
The chasid arrived in Berdichev and requested an audience with the Rebbe. The attendant told him that the Rebbe was in the middle of judging a halachic question concerning a chicken. When he finished, the audience could be arranged.
The chasid waited outside. Soon, he overheard the Rebbe speaking, "What a shame, little chicken. You had it so good in your owner's coop. You were fed hearty food, tasty millet seeds and crumbs. However, you were greedy for more, so you wandered outside in search of stray food, nibbling on anything you found. What came of your efforts? You swallowed this needle and it pierced your stomach. Now I am obligated to declare you treif - unfit to be eaten."
Listening to the Rebbe, the chasid realized that his words contained lesson for himself as well. "I no longer need to take the Rebbe's time," he told the attendant. "I already have my answer."
From My Father's Shabbos Table
