This Is One of Mine

When Rav Kalonymus Kalman Epstein of Cracow, mechaber of Maor VoShemesh, was but a young child, Rav Levi Yitzchok of Berditchev visited his town. The young boy hid beneath the Berditchever’s tallis as children do, to see what the Rebbe was doing as he prayed. The manner and conduct of the Tzaddik left such an impression on Rav Epstein, that from that point on a holy fire burned within him! When Rav Epstein grew up, he became a well-known talmid of the Rebbe Reb Elimelech of Lizhensk. Reb Elimelech once met the Berditchever in Rav Epstein’s company. Reb Elimelech prided himself on having such an illustrious and holy person as one of his own students. The Berditchever took a good look at the mechaber of Maor VoShemesh. He then recognized on his face, that the Rav standing before him was that same boy from years ago. “No, no,” said the Berditchever to Rav Elimelech, “this is one of mine! When he was but a five-year-old and he hid under my tallis, the holiness and sanctity already left its mark until he reached his current level and stature.” (Avodas Levi, p. 98).