The Previous Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok Schneersohn, wrote: “The theme of Pesach Sheni is that it is never too late! It is always possible to put things right. Even if one was ritually impure, or far away, and even in a case when this impurity or distance was deliberate - nonetheless it can be corrected.” Monday, May 12 this year is Pesach Sheni.
It’s never too late! We can always make up for a past misdeed, omission or failing through sincere desire and making amends. It’s never too late! What an inspiring and optimistic thought! There’s always a chance to improve, to become better, to learn and do.
This is truly a motto worth memorizing (and hanging on the refrigerator). Rather than muttering about yourself or another person, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks,” realize that it’s never too late. You didn’t put on tefilin yesterday? Today’s a new day and it’s never too late. You didn’t light candles for Shabbat last Friday night? Do it this week; it’s never too late. You never went to Hebrew school, so you can’t read Hebrew? Enroll in an adult education course; it’s never too late. You haven’t yet enrolled your own children in Hebrew school (or Jewish summer camp)? Do it now, it’s never too late. You never knew that Judaism had so much to offer? Now that you know, do something about it, because it’s never too late!
