Observance brings fulfillment and harmony at all levels; greater challenges indicate greater G-d given capabilities; disquietude that stems from inner spiritual disturbance caused by lapse in observance
By the Grace of G-d
26th of Tishrei, 5731
Brooklyn, N.Y.
Ms. N.H.
Milano, Italy
Blessing and Greeting:
I am in receipt of your letter containing a description of your background and life, etc.
I trust that it is unnecessary to emphasize to you at length that the Torah and Mitzvoth whereby Jews live are actually our source of life and our guide to a true, useful and contented daily life. It is only in this way that a Jew can attain peace of mind and true fulfillment; it is also in this way that a Jew receives the blessings of G-d, the Giver of the Torah and the Commander of the Mitzvoth.
There may be individuals who sometimes are discouraged, and discourage others from following this way of life, on the ground that it is too difficult, especially in these modern times and in the contemporary society, etc. But surely this is a completely erroneous approach, for it is certainly self-understood that the Creator of the world, and of man, Who knows the world and the creatures, would not give an order or command which were too difficult to carry out. If He has given certain commandments for each and every Jew to fulfill, in his or her circumstances and conditions, it is certain that He has first given the capacity to fulfill His commands.
As for your question if it is possible that it should be “otherwise,” there is no such thing. The only difference is that some Jews are born with greater natural capacities, and consequently they are faced with greater challenges and trials. Others are born with lesser capacities, and therefore challenges and trials which G-d presents them are also lesser, in keeping with their strength. For, as our Sages say, G-d does not deal despotically with His creatures, and does not expect the impossible. In the light of this, as you write, you truly have great trials, this in itself is proof that you possess a great capacity and strength to overcome them.
You write that you have a feeling of disquietude, or apprehension, etc. This too comes within the introductory remarks at the beginning of the letter. For a Jew can attain inner and outer harmony only if he lives as he is supposed to. If, for any reason whatever, his daily conduct and life is not as it should be, it disturbs this harmony, and creates a feeling of restlessness, insecurity, etc. Sometimes this comes unconsciously. And sometimes, as you also mention in your letter, it comes as a result of a troubled conscience, all the more so since there is a special Jewish conscience over and above the general human conscience which is common to all decent human beings, Jews and non-Jews.
We have no facilities for writing in French, therefore, the reply comes in English, especially in view of the fact that you mention that you have recently spent time in London. It is therefore safe to assume that you have some knowledge of English. At any rate, inasmuch as your mailing address is in care of Rabbi and Mrs. ..., they will be able to explain the letter more fully to you, if necessary.
Enclosed is a copy of my Rosh Hashono letter, the content of which is valid throughout the year.
I hope you will have good news to report in all above, especially that you have found peace of mind, and that you have ordered your daily life in accordance with the Will of G-d, that is in accordance with the Torah and Mitzvoth. May you go from strength to strength in all above.
With blessing,
