Joy, Not Bitter Remorse
True service of G-d is through joy not bitter remorse, especially when magnified by imagination; cease soul-searching.
By the Grace of G-d
25th of Tammuz, 5714
Brooklyn, N.Y.
Mr. ...
New Haven 2, Conn.
Sholom u’Brocho:
I received your letter, written in the Liberation Day — 13th of Tammuz — of my father-in-law of saintly memory. As you know, this day is celebrated by Chassidim, and by Torah-uMitzvoth-loving Jews in general, for the liberation of my father-in-law from Soviet prison, and from the threat to his life, for his work for Torah and Yiddishkeit in Soviet Russia. His liberation was a triumph also for the forces of Torah and Mitzvoth, against the evil forces that tried to gain the upper hand. It was a heavenly sign that the Almighty takes care of the Jewish people, and of every Jew in particular, and that no matter how serious the position looks, it ends well.
Referring to your letter, I am surprised that it contains a cry of anguish from a repentant and breaking heart, etc., despite my writing to you several times that this is not the way to approach G-d. For it has been revealed to us that the true way of worship is to worship G-d with joy. All thoughts that interfere with this way of worship, thoughts that bring sadness and bitter remorse, especially when magnified by imagination and constant self-appraisal — all such thoughts must be dismissed, for far from helping, they hinder in true worship.
I therefore underline again, that this is not the time for ‘Cheshboin hanefesh,’ soul-searching, and the like, but to get on with one’s business, be contented and full of joy to the extent of even overflowing and bringing joy all around.
Perhaps you know the story told of Rabbi Levi Yitzchok of Barditschev, who, when seen dancing for joy on an ordinary morning and asked about it, replied, that having said in the Morning Brochois “Sheloi osani goi,” and thinking that he did not have to work for it, but that G-d in His mercy gave it to him, and thinking what it means to be among the children of Avrohom, Yitzchok and Yaakov, a member of the chosen Jewish people — surely that is reason enough to dance with joy! I hope you will keep this story in mind and will always be full of joy and fulfill “Ivdu Hashem b’simcho.”
Your donation is acknowledged, and after deducting $18 for Maamod as you write, the rest was divided as per enclosed receipts.
With blessing
M. Schneerson
