יום ה Date: 7 Teves, 5777 (1/5/17) – Bava Metzia Daf 101 ~ Eliezer Guterman

WANTON WASTERS

[101a middle] R’ Yochanan: If one’s olive tree was swept away in a flood and then got replanted in another person’s field in Israel, we do not listen to the original owner’s request of reclaiming this tree. This is because of the significance of ‘settling’ in Israel [and we may not undo (even a tree’s) a settling].
R’ Rosner: There is also a Biblical prohibition of cutting down fruit trees which falls under Baal Tashchis (wasting). Sefer Hachinuch: Any time someone destroys something that has potential use, it is a flagrant rejection of G-d’s goodness by forfeiting possible benefit.

D-E-ep Thoughts: Every single item that we come in contact with is for a specific purpose and reason. If a person is ever blessed with receiving something and tosses it aside, he is assuming that (Heaven forbid) he knows better than G-d. We should always thank Hashem for everything we have and always try to use each item to its full potential.

Today’s P.I.P. (Put Into Practice) TIP: It is helpful to start each day by mentioning aloud at least 3-10 things that we are extremely thankful for. When we exclaim, “Thank you Hashem for…” it will begin our bright new day with an appreciative attitude of gratitude.