330 —עידוד בהפצה, התגברות על מכשולים, וכוח הרצון הפנימי

B"H, 26 Shevat, 5708.

To the esteemed vavac"h iy"a nu"m etc. hatamim Mahari Chitrik

Shalom u'Vrachah!

Your letters have been received, and enclosed is a detailed letter regarding the conditions and methods of outreach. Certainly, as with all matters of my father-in-law the Rebbe shlita, this too will be successful.

Regarding what you concluded in your letter (about what I wrote to influence your friend): "But what can be done if he is closed in his room—how can he be brought out from his 'kamtza shell'?"—my father-in-law the Rebbe has already written in his letters (in the name of Admor Hazaken): When a lantern is set up, those who desire light gather around—lichtikeit—zit tsu (draw near to light). The precision here is 'those who desire light,' for 'desire' indicates an inner will as opposed to merely wanting (see Likkutei Torah Parshas Shelach s'deh 'Tovah HaAretz'). The inner will of every Jew is whole—to be with G-d and His Torah, which is a Torah of light. As is known from the proof that a coerced get (divorce document) is valid and as explained by Rambam Hilchos Gerushin end of chapter two.

As for what you wrote further—that perhaps even your own oil does not illuminate because it is cloudy—even cloudy oil seeps and also gives light; it's just that the light isn't as bright. But it certainly dispels darkness and lighting the candle still counts as such, as is evident from the Talmud, halachic authorities, and experience. In general, what value is there in something if it does not bring benefit in Torah study, service of G-d, or acts of kindness? If it prevents these things—it is forbidden.

Each person in their place is an agent of Divine Providence. If one only begins to fulfill their mission—they will surely succeed. This will also be good for them both spiritually and materially.

Wishing you success and all good things always.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that everyone has an inner desire for G-dliness; by shining our own light through positive action—even if imperfect—we inspire others and ourselves to overcome obstacles. Every sincere effort brings spiritual and material benefit.