Who is wise? One who foresees the consequences of his own acts.
(Babylonian Talmud)
It is interesting that this is the direction Telushkin goes. Another tractate answers, "He who learns from everyone." He goes on to cite Torah and Talmud references that ensure that the physical structures one intends to build are built safely - roofs must be built with parapets, wells and holes with guard rails. Can this be extended to our relationships? Is it possible for a wise person to foresee the consequences of his actions upon others? I don't think so. Talmud goes on to remind us that "All is known in heaven except for mans will." We can, and should, always act in a way that we believe is non-injurious to our community, but how can we ever know how our actions will be seen by others? We act with the best of intentions, but in a sense, I don't think any of us are truly wise in regard to Telushkin's ideal.
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