1. Reflections on the Approach of Gimel Tammuz
As we transition from Rosh Chodesh into Bayez Tammuz, the eve of Gimel Tammuz, it’s a time that brings up many personal feelings regarding our relationship with the Rebbe, with Chassidus, and the impact these have had on our lives. Each person has their own unique connection and perspective. In today’s Torah portion, we read about the staff of Aharon that blossomed, and in tomorrow’s portion, we are told to place this staff as evidence before the testimony—proof of Aharon’s chosen status. This narrative resonates with our own concerns about continuity and authenticity in our spiritual lives.2. The Rebbe’s Self-Sacrifice and Authenticity
One of the major worries is whether the truth and essence of what the Rebbe stood for will remain intact. The Rebbe invested an immeasurable amount of mesiras nefesh—self-sacrifice—for Yiddishkeit, for Chassidim, for leading Klal Yisrael—the Jewish people—and for bringing Mashiach. His dedication to ahavas Yisrael—love for every Jew—was unparalleled. Today, we have many tools at our disposal: videos of the Rebbe, his talks, writings, and more. However, there is a concern that as we use modern media—tools also used by secular society to sell everything from shoes to stocks—the message could become diluted or mistaken for just another product being marketed.3. The Challenge of Modern Mediums and Perception
Because these same mediums are used everywhere to persuade or manipulate people, there is a risk that some may start to view the Rebbe’s teachings as just another agenda or sales pitch. This is a real concern: are we losing sight of the truth and holiness at the core? When the Rebbe was physically present and we could hear directly from him, it was clear that this was genuine godliness and holiness—the real thing. Now that we don’t see him in person, there’s a danger that authenticity might be questioned or lost amidst all the noise.4. The Influence of Online Platforms vs. True Leadership
Another issue is how internet sites and blogs can create perceptions about leadership within Chassidus—who sets the tone, who is in charge, what is important. But these platforms do not define what Chassidus truly is or who should be followed. They are not leading us in Hasidus nor teaching us its essence; they simply reflect opinions or trends but not necessarily truth or authenticity.5. Inspiration from Today’s Yeshiva Bachurim
Despite these concerns, I find reassurance when I observe yeshiva bachurim—whether it’s boys from Chazanovich or my own son—who live by the message as it was meant to be lived. They embody purity and avoid all the narishkite—foolishness—and pretense found online or in superficial circles. These bachurim daven sincerely, learn Torah diligently, behave like true Hasidim, keep mitzvahs properly—they do things right. Their actions prove that the Rebbe is still with us.6. The Enduring Presence and Future of Hasidus
Even if we sometimes feel like bnei meri—a rebellious people—the Rebbe continues to lead and inspire us. We are raising children who are not only genuine Hasidim but may even surpass previous generations in their dedication to Torah, mitzvahs, and self-sacrifice for Hashem, for Torah, for mitzvahs, and for the Rebbe himself. Seeing this new generation gives me great inspiration—they represent the real future Hasidim.7. Rejecting Superficiality for Genuine Dedication
It’s important not to get distracted by all the foolishness found on blogs or social media—that isn’t reality. Baruch Hashem, there is a new generation inspired by and connected to the Rebbe and to Hasidus in a real way. Our hope is that this inspiration will continue so that we can fulfill the genuine expectations set by the Rebbe: true dedication to Hasidus, Torah, mitzvahs—to be authentic Hasidim without getting caught up in external fanfare or glitz.8. Hope for Redemption Before Gimel Tammuz
While outward displays may sometimes impress outsiders, internally we must strive to be real Hasidim—the true embodiment of what the Rebbe wanted from us: dedicated to Hasidus, Torah, mitzvahs—the real thing at its core. We pray that before Gimel Tammuz arrives, with Hashem’s help (be’ezras Hashem), we will merit once again to be led by the Rebbe in a revealed way out of exile into redemption.