Surfers are probably more in touch with their environment than any other group. They're constantly keeping their finger on the pulse of developments or other factors that can alter their immediate marine habitat, the place most nearest and dearest to them. They're also aware of the great deal of cooperation sometimes needed with local landowners in order to foster good relations and insure continued coastal access.
Those Soul Surfers in the Western Santa Barbara area may recall years ago that Naples, a great reef-point that fires off in Winter months, was a very sensative surf spot due to gates that needed to be opened and closed properly for beach access. A wrong move by a thoughtless surfer could result in tremendous damage from cattle eating or destroying others neighbors' property.
No doubt our weekly Torah portion foresaw this surfer's dilemma, as Rashi points out(34-32). Abraham's animals were muzzled so as not to graze in other people's pastures, thereby preventing potential loss of property. This great concern for others was considered an act of righteousness; indeed, people seeing those animals immediately recognized them as those of Abraham.
Remember: close those gates, be cool, and pack out the trash with you!
Shabbat Shalom to all
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