1393 —התגברות על ספקות בהוראה וחיזוק קשרים עם תלמידים

B"H, 2nd of Shevat, 5712.

Brooklyn.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

... Regarding what you wrote in your letter about matters of melancholia (marah shechorah), ^[1] wondering if it is appropriate for you to teach a class, etc.—certainly you also recognize that this is merely the incitement of the yetzer (evil inclination) to weaken your efforts in drawing the hearts of the yeshivah students closer. It is a shame to waste good time refuting such arguments. Be strong in your resolve, for you have merited to be among those who teach in a yeshivah founded by my revered father-in-law, the Rebbe, and therefore you are connected to him. This connection also serves as a channel to grant you strength and ability to fulfill your role in guiding your classes so that ultimately they will become chassidim. After all calculations, this is your mission and purpose in this world. When one fulfills the task assigned by the Creator, then—in the words of my revered ancestor, the Alter Rebbe—'For what you are needed, then Hashem gives everything you need.' Enclosed are guidelines for Yud Shevat, which is approaching; surely you will publicize them appropriately.

With blessings for success in your holy work and that you do it with joy—this benefits both yourself and your work.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that doubts about one's fitness for teaching stem from the yetzer hara and should not deter one from their mission. Strengthening one's resolve and connecting with previous generations empowers success in guiding students with joy.