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Letter of comfort

Fri, 14 Mar 2014 6:37:00 AM

A Free Transalation of a letter the Rebbe wrote to Mrs. sara Lieberman - then a 17 year old girl - after the untimely passing of her mother - Rashi Gansburg, grandmother and namesake of Rebbetzin Rashi Minkowitz.

By the Grace of G-d

14 Teves, 5730 [December 23, 1969]
Brooklyn, NY

Greetings and Blessings,

I received, on time, your letter -- though the circumstances have delayed my answer -- in which you write of the passing of you mother, obm, and your thoughts and feelings in connection to this.

The truth is that "none amongst us knows anything at all" concerning the ways of G-d, Who created humans, directs them, and observes them with a most specific Divine providence. But certainly, certainly, He is the very essence of good, and, as the expression goes, "it is in the nature of the good to do good." If, at times, what G-d does is at all not understood by the human mind -- little wonder: What significance has a limited, measured, finite creature in relation to the infinite and endless, and especially in relation to the "the absolutely Infinite and Endless" (B'li G'vul V'Ein Sof Ha'amiti)?

Nevertheless, G-d chose to reveal a fraction of His wisdom to man, to flesh and blood. This He did with His holy Torah, called "The Torah of Light" and "The Torah of Life" -- that is to say, it illuminates man's path in life in such a manner that even his limited faculties may comprehend its light. Thus, also in the case of the above-mentioned occurrence, and the similar, one can find an understanding -- at least a partial one -- in accordance with what is explained in our (written and oral) Torah.

Actually, this understanding is to be found in two rulings of Torah Law which address our actual conduct in these circumstances. At first glance, they seem to stand in contradiction one to the other, though they appear in the same section of the Code of Jewish Law. The section (Yoreh Deah 394) begins: "One must not mourn excessively (beyond what our sages have instructed us); one who does so in extreme..." Yet, at the section's end it is brought that "one who does not mourn as the sages have guided us is a callous and cruel person." Now, if in such a case it is natural to mourn, what's so terrible about one who mourns more? Why the harsh rebuke mentioned in the law? And if to mourn excessively is so terrible, why is it cruel to mourn less?

The explanation lies in the concluding words of our sages (as quoted fromMaimonides): "One should fear and worry, search one's deeds and repent."

It is self-understood that the soul is eternal. Obviously, an illness of the flesh or blood cannot terminate or diminish the life of the soul -- it can only damage the flesh and the blood themselves and the bond between them and the soul. That is to say, it can bring to the cessation of this bond -- death, G-d forbid -- and with the severing of what binds the soul to the flesh, the soul ascends and frees herself of the shackles of the body, of its limitations and restrictions. Through the good deeds she has performed during the period she was upon earth and within the body, she is elevated to a higher, much higher, level than her status prior to her descent into the body. As the our sages expressed it: The descent of the soul is a descent for the sake of an ascent, an ascent above and beyond her prior state.

From this it is understood that anyone close to this soul, anyone to whom she was dear, must appreciate that the soul has ascended, higher, even, than the level she was at previously; it is only that in our lives, in our world, it is a loss. And just as the closer one is to the soul, all the more precious to them is the soul's elevation, so it is with the second aspect -- the intensity of the pain. For they, all the more so, feel the loss of her departure from the body and from life in this world.

Also, it is a loss in the sense that -- it seems -- the soul could have ascended even higher by remaining in this world, as our sages taught in the Ethics of our Fathers: "One moment of repentance and good deeds in this world is preferable to the entire world to come."

Thus, since the occurrence contains these two conflicting facets -- on the one hand, the freeing of the soul of the body's shackles and her ascent to a higher world, the world of truth; on the other, the above-mentioned loss -- the result is the two rulings. The "Torah of Truth" mandates that one mourn, for the time-period set by our sages. At the same time, it is forbidden to mourn excessively (that is, beyond the set mourning period, and also in regards to the intensity of the mourning within these days).

As said, the primary cause for mourning such an occurrence is the loss on the part of the living. This is the object of the mourning period: The living need to understand why it is that they deserved this loss. This is why "One should fear and worry, search one's deeds and repent."

Through this another thing is attained -- the bond between the living and the soul who has ascended endures. For the soul is enduring and eternal, and sees and observes what is taking place with those connected with her and close to her. Every good deed they do causes her spiritual pleasure, specifically, the accomplishments of those she has educated and raised with the education that bring the said good deeds; that is to say, she has a part in those deeds resulting of the education she provided her children and the ones she influenced.

Since all of the above constitute directives of our Torah, the wisdom and will of G-d, the fulfillment of these directives is part and parcel of our service of G-d of which it is said "Serve G-d with joy." A directive of Torah also serves as the source of strength which provides the abilities to carry it out. Consequently, since the Torah addresses these instructions to each and every individual, it is within the capacity of each individual to carry it out -- and more so, to carry it out in a manner of "Serve G-d with joy."

All this applies to the entire family, but even more so, and with yet a greater supply of fortitude -- as well as a greater degree of responsibility -- in regard to those who are in a position to affect the other family members who will emulate their example. Therefore, the responsibility to implement all of the above falls first and foremost upon the head of the family and the senior child, in this case I am referring to you and your father. The guarantee "You have toiled, you have found" applies here as well.

In all the above also lies the answer to your question as to how you can lighten the load, etc. -- through a behavior consistent with the above verse, with a strong faith in G-d that you will succeed in this endeavor.

May it be the will of G-d that you have good tidings concerning all the above, open and revealed good.

With blessings for success in all your endeavors and good tidings,

[Signature: M. Schneersohn]

High Holiday Roundup

Mon, 30 Sep 2013 8:38:00 AM

At Chabad we are like a family!

Rosh Hashanah at the Holiday Inn Hotel in Mansfield, was where many friends – new and old – were treated to inspiring, upbeat services. The feeling of comradeship and unity, peppered with rabbi Yossi’s dose of humor and inspiration made it truly memorable. The crowds filled the house as we welcomed the year 5774.

We were delighted to be joined by Tzivi’s family. Rabbi Itkin’s enthusiasm and love was infectious and Mrs Itkin with her troop of girls served and hosted 6 magnificent meals and kiddushs over Rosh Hashanah and Shabbos.

Every moment of the days was powerful. More than 350 local Jews heard the call of the shofar!!

On the eve of Rosh Hashanah, the delicious dinner was highlighted by inspiring personal memories that were shared by some of the 50 wonderful guests.

After a 3-mile exhilarating walk on the first day of Rosh Hashanah, for the special tashlich service at Fultons pond, a warm and enthusiastic crowd of close to 100 people came to "throw their sins into the water." The shofar rang loudly and clearly and was followed by a very festive Chassidic ‘dance at the water.’

Some locals that couldn’t make it to Synagogue had a personal visit and Shofar blowing. May we all be blessed with good health and happiness.

Considered by many as the most important day of the year, Yom Kippur was attended by many “returning customers” as well as new participants. The best way to begin such a special day – was with a Mitzvah! Teffillin and Candle Lighting. The Hotel ballroom was then filled with song and meaningful prayers.

It was an honor to have in our midst Yossi’s father, Rabbi Kivman who joined the community for this special day.

Rabbi Yossi’s Yizkor speech challenged everyone to dig deeper into ourselves and discover the relevance of Torah in our lives. Howard gave a heartfelt appeal for the building fund of the new property that Chabad is attaining

Throughout the 25 hours and 5 prayer services, more than 300 joined in unison to connect with millions of Jews throughout the world asking Hashem for a good year for all.

Yom Kippur concluded with the traditional call of Shma and shofar blowing coupled with a lively dance and Chassidic Niggun (wordless song) march – with a feeling that we will surely be inscribed for a prosperous, healthy and nachas-filled year ahead. The bagels and lox spread (and pastries) will not be forgotten!

The Chazanim (cantors) klufgant and Rabbi Itkin led the crowd in song.

The holiday of Sukkos and Simchas Torah comes immediately after the High Holidays – at a perfect time. The joyous meals celebrated by locals and the Milford Chabad community were exhilarating. The all night dancing with the Torahs together with original Chabad Raps and ‘Shake it up Zaidy/bubby’ songs.

Seven years ago – there was barely a Sukkah or two in Mansfield, this year the greater Mansfield area saw more than TEN! The sukkos hop was fun and exciting. Each of the four Sukkos offered something unique: from dancing and l’cayim to games and stories at another, Pizza at Chabad to trampoline and ziplines at the Jacobs.

Thanks to everyone that helped before, after and during the holidays (in no special order): Chaya’le K., Shimon K., Mike and Cherie K., Chaya’le S., Jeff and Melanie M., Penina S., Jane L., Devorah Leah S., Rivky I., Alan S., Devorah Leah I., Howard S., Teresa M., Menucha I., Mazi T., Carol and Howie C., the staff at the Hotel, Muhky, Sarah’le and Mendel (great oratory skills) and of course Tzivi.

The Mezuzah is Af-fixed

Thu, 7 Jan 2010 11:59:00 PM

Mezuzah Installation: Take 2… Lights, Camera, Action….
Before we installed our mezuzah, I went over all the steps, and rehearsed the blessing a dozen times, I was almost ready, but I had questions, since I wanted to do this correctly….
So, I called Rabbi Yossi to clear up some of the ambiguities: how do I pronounce the Hebrew word for ‘affix’ (lik-bo-a); do I remove the translucent wrapper surrounding the mezuzah; what about that little bit of tape inside the case at the bottom of the mezuzah (to my surprise, it wasn’t there for packing during the shipping); can I install the mezuzah at night, or is daylight required, like Tefillin; and more (really, you don’t know me)….
The Rabbi suggested I take some pictures of the event. I rolled my eyes, … “All right”
So I marked off the location on the doorpost with a pencil, got my drill, and my photographer (aka, my spouse, Teresa), with the blessing well rehearsed, I set about my business.
Ignoring the jeers, “It looks too low… are you sure about that location … it doesn’t look right”, I recited the blessing (yes, I forgot lik-bo-a, and had to resort to paper back up)
Then a little bit of tape, some drilling, camera flashing pictures, and it was up… all smiles and happiness!
Then Teresa observed, “It doesn’t look right”, and referencing the printed instructions (from AskMoses.com), she identified a problem … I angled our mezuzah out, instead of in!… I attached the mezuzah English (left to right), not Hebrew (right to left)…
Uh oh (translation: Oy vey!)! What to do?… Leave it as is, as the instructions seem to say as long as it’s in the correct location, it doesn’t need to be moved… but I’m caught on Candid Camera… I pondered and decided I need a do-over….
Bzzzzhhhhh!…. Bzzzzhhhhhh! I drilled out the screws, but the tape held our mezuzah firm. Bzzzttt! I pulled the mezuzah off, and repositioned it Hebrew style, re-recited the blessing (yes, I read it off the instructions)… lik-bo-a mezuzah, Teresa gave me an Amen and snapped pictures, … and our reinstallation was complete
We stood there looking out our mezuzah on our home and smiled. The kind of smile that last a while, and makes your face hurt a bit.
Being as I was in the threshold, I tested out our new mezuzah, to see if its key features were working. I read G-d’s name, and took pride in the beauty of the lettering, I thought about its contents, the Shema. I touched it, and kissed my hand, and felt comfort and pride in fulfilling this mitzvah. But mostly, this simple act connected me, our home, with the Jewish faith, and made me feel that our house was our home.
OK, or should I say OU, enough with the mushy stuff… I deleted the English style mezuzah pics (left to right)… that’s not going on the web
I sent the pictures to the Rabbi, noting that only 2 pictures came out…. He wanted to see the ‘out-takes’… too bad, they’re deleted, no left to right mezuzah pics on the blog

A weekend in Crown Heights, NY

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 12:00:00 AM

This was written by Yael (Jacquie) Rosenfield

Jacquie Rosenfield, a Mansfield resident, spent the weekend of February 12-16 2009 in Crown Heights section of Brooklyn NY, at the Chabad Lubavitch world headquarters. She was attending a guest program geared to supporters of Chabad centers around the world, running simultaneously with the international conference of Shluchos (Chabad Rebbetzin’s). She writes a brief rendition of her experience:

“When I decided to go as Tzivi’s (Kivman, the Shlucha to the greater Mansfield, MA area) guest to the Shluchos Conference in Crown Heights, all I knew was that I wanted to go and what I was hoping for was a total immersion in Chabad. I wanted more than just an evening class or even a Shabbat experience. Other than that, I didn’t know what to expect. I could not have imagined what a joyous, enriching, enlightening experience it would be.

There were about 150 of us guests attending (those who were not Chabad Shluchos but had come with their Rebbetzins). I quickly bonded with them because we were all on the same path of learning more about our Judaism and practicing more mitzvot. Some were closer to the beginning of their path and some were further along, but we were all on the same path.

We exchanged stories of what got us into Chabad – some through their children – some through going through a loss and seeking Jewish guidance – many different stories. And then there’s mine – my excuse is: “they (Rabbi Yossi and Tzivi, the local Chabad Lubavitch representatives) moved in 2 blocks from me!” But I also knew that I was ready.

The days were a combination of classes on a wide range of topics that included: Mikvah, applying the Ten Commandments to your marriage, and Prayer. We heard a speaker who was from the Chabad House in Hebron, Israel, about what it’s like living walking distance from one of the holiest spots in the world – the graves of our forefathers and foremothers….and how she puts her 6-year-old child on the phone to convince potential visitors that it is safe enough to visit.

We had a spiritual guided tour of Crown Heights that included a visit to a Matzah factory, a scribe where they make Mezuzahs, Tefillin and Torahs and a Chassidic art gallery. At the Matzah factory, I learned about the special process that must be followed to make the hand made ‘Shmurah’ Matzah. The process including careful watch not to allow the dough to rise, by making the Matzah from start-to-finish in less than 18 minutes! After learning about it, I made the decision to eat only Shmurah Matzah at my future Seders.

Chabad’s philosophy is that, together with action (mitzvot) one has to have Knowledge. This is exactly what I now know to be true. I learned so much – over the weekend - about G-d, what the purpose of our lives are and how we can make G-d happy; and to thank Him for our lives by following the commandments/directives that he gave us. I started being able to see the divine intervention in every aspect of my life.

In addition to classes and tours, we were served meals three times a day fit for royalty. Most meals were served to us all together in the Jewish Children’s museum across the street from ‘770,’ Lubavitch world headquarters. However, many meals were in the homes of the people who graciously opened their homes to us guests. The spreads were amazing – always a variety of salads, cold foods, warm foods, catered and presented beautifully. Our tables had fresh flowers on Shabbat and at other times a model of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem.

Shabbos was a special experience. We each had dinner with our respective Shlucha (Chabad Rebbetzin), and I was treated to an amazing Shabbos dinner with Tzivi, her mother and many of her sisters (all of whom are shluchos in different areas of the world) at her aunt and uncle’s home where the table was also set fit for royalty and the food was so good I ate much more than my capacity. The atmosphere was warm and comfortable and I felt like I was with family.

Shabbos day there were more lessons, more food and more bonding. We had a chance to go to “770” (the main synagogue) which was packed to the hilt; and a Havdallah service in someone’s home.

The home that I stayed at was with relatives of Tzivi who did not know who I was until I arrived. They’d just moved into their new home and were so excited to have their first guest. They bought beds and new bedding. They truly practiced Hachnasas Orchim (the Mitzvah of inviting guests into ones home). They had another guest from Israel, a shlucha who had arrived unexpectedly, who they also did not yet know personally. She shared the room with me and so, luckily, I was forced to practice my Hebrew because she knew very little English. It was a new and good experience for me to share a room with someone who followed the mitzvot to their ability. e.g. netillat yadayim (ritual washing of the hands) upon awakening, covering one’s head at all times and davening (praying) Shacharis in the morning.

Sunday we visited the Ohel – it was my second time going – and as I was familiar with it, it was all the more meaningful for me. Since then, I’ve had numerous miracles occur, and I’ve taken on more new mitzvot.

As we are learning in the Tanya class, if we consider spiritual priorities as more important than bodily wants and needs, we can be content and joyous. This became truth for me over the weekend.

I want to end by saying that I heard the definition of happiness this weekend as ‘knowing who you are and knowing where you’re going’. I’m very pleased to say that, thanks to Chabad, I am happy.”