There was a Novardoker who ended up in Kletzk. R’ Ahron Kotler Zatzal wanted very much that his son R’ Shneur Zatzal should learn with him as a chavrusa, since he was the biggest Masmid in the Yeshiva. He lived in the USA, and he retired from work at 65. He learned for the next 30 years B’hasmada Rabba until he was Niftar at 93. He lost 3 of his children in his lifetime, and they say that he moved on in life with perfect calm as if nothing happened.
I heard the same type of story about many Novardokers, who moved on as smooth as ever despite losing beloved spouses and dear children, etc. People are calling me with problems, about how to deal with the war in Eretz Yisroel. It causes plenty of worry and stress, especially for those who find out about the gruesome facts and all the cruelty of Hamas, Rachana Litzlan. I don’t advise getting involved in finding out all the morbid details, unless there is a Tachlis of davening harder for them.
In the name of a Chashuva Rov – finding out and viewing some atrocities is Assur Le’Halacha (absolutely forbidden) and if a person causes himself unnecessary traumas, he can be considered a: ְמ ַא ֵבּ ַﬠ ד ְצמוֹ ְל ַד ַﬠ ת person who intentionally takes his own life, Chas V'shalom. R' Gershon Liebman Zatzal saw much worse atrocities during the 5 years he was under the Nazis. He was constantly giving away his own meager food supply in order to save others. Yet, his Simcha level was incredible!
After years in Novardok, he knew how to balance his Middos properly. All those who have a hard time dealing with the casualties in Eretz Yisroel, should think of R' Gershon Zatzal who had much more Ahavas Yisroel than all of us. (He was constantly risking his life to save others during the Holocaust). Yet, his Simcha level was even higher than usual! (told by R' Gurwitz Zatzal).
By most people, all they talk about and worry about is how is the nachas, the Parnasa, and the relationship situation. In Novardok, all they asked you about was how are you reacting to your Nisyonos, which is the main purpose of a person’s existence. Making Tikun HaMiddos your main focus will make you much happier.
I know a person who felt that he needed to improve his muscles. He used to do difficult exercises, and the only way he was able to continue was by constantly looking at the books that show you how great you’ll look and feel if you keep up the exercises.
L'havdil, those who keep learning Madregas HaAdam, which inspires you to go against your nature, and proves to you that only this will make you happy, actually enjoy working on Middos.
