2407 —מציאת הגישה הנכונה להשפיע על אחרים וצמיחה אישית

B"H, Brooklyn.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

I acknowledge receipt of your letter from Tuesday, 3 Shevat, and when I am at the holy resting place of my father-in-law, the Rebbe zatzal, I will mention you for a speedy recovery.

You conclude your letter in response to my request to learn about the nature of those around you and to influence them, stating that there are about fifty people there but most are not yet observant of Torah and mitzvos, etc., and their words are certainly at your expense regarding the suffering you endure.

I am surprised by your conclusion—especially since I wrote clearly (as you also quote in your letter) that knowing about them and their nature is in order to influence them. Since you yourself write that they are embarrassed before you in certain matters, this is clear proof that one must find the right approach for how to engage with them. Therefore, you should use the time you still have with them to speak with them—from lighter topics to more serious ones.

May it be G‑d's will that He grant you success so that you fulfill what is stated: "Little by little I will drive them out"—to remove the negativity present in your environment. Since you have found yourself there, surely you have been given the strength for this work. As brought in several books, it is almost certain to say that this is also a channel for your physical healing. May G‑d grant you success.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that when others feel embarrassment before us, it signals an opportunity to reach out and influence them positively. By engaging thoughtfully and persistently, we not only help others grow but also open channels for our own healing and blessing.