A few weeks ago, we packed up our shul and moved out of the location we had occupied for almost 10 years. It was not an easy process. That space held so many memories for us—tears, laughter, Purim parties, Shabbat and holiday dinners, Pesach seders, friendships formed, l’chaims shared, Torah classes enjoyed.
For 10 years the owner donated the space to us, but unfortunately he passed away last year and his family decided to sell the building. They gave me a few months’ notice to start packing up and looking for a new location.
When the time came, I asked for a short extension - just a few more months. But they already had a potential buyer who needed the space to be empty.
So we vacated. Sad as we were, we packed up our menorah, megillas, tables and chairs, aron kodesh and sifrei Torah.
Many people asked me, “Why did you move out? Don’t you know New York law? You could’ve stayed until they evicted you, you could’ve asked for a settlement. Who knows? Maybe you would’ve made some serious money. Why move out without demanding anything when NY law is on your side?”
No, I wasn’t unaware. But when we started using the space 10 years ago, I made a deal with the owner. His main hesitation was that if he ever wanted the space for any reason, I would move out without causing him any problems. And I agreed. We shook hands, and I gave him my word that I would move out immediately when asked.
So even though he passed away and I could’ve used every excuse in the book, a deal is a deal. When you give your word, you don’t go back on it, no matter what.
In fact, the Torah tells us that the very first question a person is asked when he or she passes away is not “Did you fast on Yom Kippur?” or “Did you pray every day?” but “Were you honest in business?”
In business, we are tempted on a daily basis. Tempted to rationalize why we deserve money, or why a gray area is really OK. And we have to be particular to maintain honesty and integrity.
So ask yourself, what will you tell G-d after 120 years, when He asks “Were you honest in your business dealings?”
As hard as it was, I know I did the right thing. And after we moved out, one of the people involved met with me and thanked me for moving out so graciously, without causing any problems.
I have no doubt that G-d will direct us to a suitable space very soon, so that we can have a permanent home for our shul!
L’chaim!
Rabbi Uriel Vigler