Seeing the Good in Others Worksheet – Class Companion: February 5, 2025
Rabbi Dovid Biederman of Lelov was known for his ability to see the good in others, even when others could not. This worksheet will help you reflect on his teachings and apply them to your own personal growth and interactions.
Understanding the Concept
The foundation of Rabbi Dovid’s teachings is based on these Torah principles:
• Bereishit 1:27 – “And G-d created man in His image.”
→ Every human being carries Divine potential.
• Pirkei Avot 1:6 – “Judge every person favorably.”
→ This is a directive, not a suggestion.
• Vayikra 19:18 – “Love your fellow as yourself.”
→ This is one of the greatest commandments in the Torah.
Reflection Question
• How do these verses challenge the way you view others?
(Write your response below.)
The Power of Perception
The Baal Shem Tov taught that how we perceive others actually influences their behavior.
• When we see the good in someone, we help draw that goodness out in them.
• When we judge negatively, we reinforce negativity.
Reflection Questions
• Have you ever been around someone who expected great things from you?
→ How did that make you feel?
• Have you ever been pre-judged negatively?
→ How did that impact you?
Exercise
Write about a time when someone’s belief in you helped you rise to the occasion. (Write below.)
Practicing Ayin Tovah (A Good Eye)
Choose someone in your life whom you struggle with. Identify three qualities that they possess that you can appreciate.
1.
2.
3.
Reflection
Has seeing their good qualities changed your perspective? (Write below.)
Stories of Rabbi Dovid
Rabbi Dovid saw the good in everyone, no matter their past. Consider these stories and reflect on their messages:
1. Seeing Good in a Thief
• Rabbi Dovid once encountered a known thief. Instead of judging him, he greeted him warmly and pointed out his intelligence and potential.
• The man was so moved by the Rebbe’s faith in him that he changed his ways.
2. Feeding Without Judgment
• During a famine, Rabbi Dovid gave food to everyone—Jews and non-Jews alike.
• When questioned about this, he simply said:
“A hungry soul is a hungry soul.”
Reflection:
• What can these stories teach us about how we should approach others? (Write below.)
Kabbalistic Insights
Rabbi Dovid’s approach aligns with deep Kabbalistic teachings:
• Malchut (Kingship) & Humility – He reflected Divine light through service.
• Gematria of דוד (14) – “Yad” (hand), symbolizing giving and connection.
• Double Dalet (ד) – Represents humility and being a doorway for others to enter holiness.
Exercise:
• Think of a way you can help someone else feel seen and valued this week. (Write below.)
Weekly Challenge
This week, take on the following practice:
Each day, find a different person and identify a positive quality in them.
Express appreciation for someone in your life in a meaningful way.
Refrain from speaking negatively about anyone for one week.
Reflection:
• Write about what you learned from this challenge. (Write below.)
Final Reflection
Rabbi Dovid taught:
“If G-d sees the good in us, how can we do any less for others?”
What is one action step you will commit to in order to apply this wisdom? (Write below.)