Question: I live on a mid-size Yishuv in Israel. The Yishuv only has a few Chabad chassidim. Over the last year I have become inspired by Chabad chassidus and want to move to a larger Chabad community. However, I am not sure if I should stay on the Yishuv and continue to invest in building our small community or move. What do you think?
Answer
Chassidus explains that through doing mitzvot we elevate and reveal sparks of holiness embedded within the physicality of this world. Each person has certain sparks that are relevant to them; sparks that only they can refine. Tzadikim go to these sparks; knowing which sparks they must elevate. There are countless stories of Tzadikim who traveled great distances for the sake of a mitzva. Yet, given most people do not know where “their” sparks are hidden, they depend on Divine Providence to lead them to their appointed place.
Thus, it is written in the text, HaYom Yom, for the entry on the 3rd of Elul: A person who believes in Divine Providence knows that “the steps of a man are made firm by G-d.” (Tehillim 37:23) [A person goes to] a particular place because his soul must refine and perfect something there.
Along these lines, a group of Chabad women were once stranded in the Detroit airport, unable to fly home due to a snowstorm. When they told the Rebbe they were “stuck”, the Rebbe responded that a Jew is never “stuck” - you are where you are supposed to be.
On the other hand, there are factors and circumstances that could make it appropriate to move.
Therefore, consider the following:
- Consult a mashpia (spiritual advisor) on a regular basis. The Rebbe said each person should have a mashpia. It is difficult to be objective in regards ourselves. An experienced and objective opinion is helpful both in regards our spiritual development and life decisions.
- Given this is a new change in your life, don’t rush. In consultation with your mashpia, consider committing for one year to deepen your knowledge of Chabad teachings by adhering to a daily study schedule while also supporting the development of your community.
After the year, reevaluate. Perhaps you and your mashpia will decide it is best to move. However, your decision will be based on intellect as opposed to emotional excitement. This is one of the goals of Chassidus - as the Alter Rebbe teaches - the mind should rule over the heart.
Aharon Schmidt, marriage & individual counseling, [email protected]
