When I think of the word father-in-law, I think of Yitro and his advice to Moshe Rabbeinu. Yitro, as an objective outsider, realized that it was not sustainable for Moshe to be a solitary judge for the entire Jewish people. He advised his son-in-law to create a system and hierarchy with which to judge the people.
Here’s the part I can’t get over. Most of us can’t handle unsolicited advice, and in-law relationships can be a touchy thing. And yet Moshe’s humility astounds me. To be able to receive the feedback and make the necessary improvements based on his father-in-law’s advice is truly something I admire. It can feel prickling to receive advice. Unwanted. Uncomfortable. And yet while it seems like a very high level to welcome constructive feedback, it is actually the other way around. As the Rebbe Rashab writes in a letter: “Love criticism, for it will place you on a truly high level.” Welcoming feedback in a humble manner can be the impetus for the greatest growth.
