Yaakov, a farmer living in Israel’s lush Galilee region was giving a tour of his farm to his new mother in law. The newlywed farmer genuinely tried to be friendly to his new mother-in-law, hoping that it could be a friendly, non-antagonistic relationship. All to no avail though, as she kept nagging him at every opportunity, demanding changes, offering unwanted advice, and generally making life unbearable to the Yaakov and his new bride.
While they were walking through the barn, Yaakov’s mule suddenly reared up and kicked the mother-in-law, killing her instantly. It was a shock to all no matter their feelings towards her.
At the funeral service, Yaakov and his wife sat as well wishers paid their respects. The rabbi however noticed that whenever a woman would whisper something to Yaakov, he would nod his head yes and say something. Whenever a man walked by and whispered to the Yaakov, however, he would shake his head no, and mumble a reply.
Very curious as to this bizarre behavior, the rabbi later asked Yaakov what that was all about.
Yaakov replied, “The women would say, ‘What a terrible tragedy’ and I would nod my head and say, ‘Yes, it was.’ The men would then ask, ‘Can I borrow that mule?’ and I would shake my head and say, ‘Can’t. It’s all booked up for a year.'”