4088 —הבהרת כוונות במתן תוכחה בונה

B"H, 3rd of Shevat, 5716.

Brooklyn.

Haraha"ch iy"a nu"n oseik b'tzt"z Meir Gurkav

Shalom u'Vrachah!

I acknowledge receipt of your letter from the 11th of Teves with its enclosure. Regarding your interpretation of my words in my letter to you, that words which do not lead to action are considered as idle talk since their purpose was not fulfilled—it seems I did not explain myself sufficiently. My intention was certainly not directed at you, G‑d forbid, but rather about the talks given here during the farbrengen.

The practical difference is clear: when you fulfill my request to speak words of inspiration and similar matters—words that come from the heart—even if one does not see the effects brought about by these words, it is like what is explained regarding the blessing for searching for chametz: even if no chametz is found, the blessing is valid because the mitzvah is to search. Similarly with the mitzvah of "hocheach tochiach" (rebuke), as is also evident from our Sages' debate whether it must be to the point of striking, etc.—even though it is obvious that even if it does not reach that point and the rebuke does not have an effect, nevertheless the mitzvah remains in place. This is unlike my own talks which come from myself alone.

I hope that these few lines will have their intended effect and bring about their goal—that you will increase your strength in your outreach activities, especially since it is well known what our holy Nesi'im said: persistent outreach never returns empty-handed...

With blessings for success in all your work mentioned above.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that sincere efforts in inspiring others and giving constructive criticism retain their value even when immediate results are unseen. The act itself fulfills a mitzvah and contributes to positive outcomes over time.