Today we offer a very universal story from the Jewish tradition that might make us ask, “What does friendship really mean?’

It happened once that two travellers were riding on a train, and got into a conversation.  After a few moments, one said to the other, “You’re from such-and-such village–do you happen to know a man from there called Aaron Moses?’

“Yes, I know him,” said the other.

“What is he like?”

“He’s very stubborn.”

“Oh?  Anything else?”

“He puts on airs.  He pretends to be very important, but in fact he’s a nobody.”

“I see.  Anything else about him?”

“He borrows money and doesn’t repay it.  He’s been bankrupt four times.  He treats his wife badly.  He doesn’t keep the Sabbath.  Oh! And he even eats during the Great Fast.”

“That’s very interesting.  Tell me, how do you know so much about him?”

“How do I know?  He’s my best friend, that’s how I know.”