"And now, don't be sad." (45:5)Being broken-hearted is not the same as being sad. Sadness makes one lifeless and stone-like. On the contrary, a broken heart is at least responsive. (Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi)Sadness locks the gates of heaven. Prayer opens locked gates. And happiness has the strength to break through all barricades. (The Baal Shem Tov)Reprinted from this week’s whY I Matter email compiled for the Young Israel of Midwood in Brooklyn by R’ Yedidye Hirtenfeld.

Don’t Be Sad