4910 —חיזוק ההתחייבות לחסידות

B"H, 7 Kislev, 5717.

Brooklyn.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

In response to your letter from the 2nd of Kislev, in which you describe how this past year has gone since you accepted upon yourself a connection to Chassidus and its matters: Certainly, you will add even greater strength as you enter your second year in this (see also Likkutei Torah by our master the Alter Rebbe, Parshas Bamidbar 3a). Especially since it is known from our sages that "Kol HaTechalot Kashot" (all beginnings are difficult), and a second year is no longer considered a beginning. Therefore, you should demand much more from yourself, and this demand will be easier for you when you contemplate what our master the Alter Rebbe writes in Tanya chapter 30 (page 38b): "And therefore every person must..."—see there and reflect well for your own soul.

Regarding what you write about worries and distractions, it is known from the Mishnah: "Whoever accepts upon himself the yoke of Torah... they remove from him..." (and anyone who errs in a Mishnah returns because it is an absolutely clear matter). This fits with the well-known ruling as told about the Mitteler Rebbe: Because of the self-sacrifice of the Alter Rebbe for the teachings of Chassidus, it was decreed in the Heavenly Court that in every matter of Torah, fear of Heaven, and good character traits, his followers and those who walk in his path will always prevail. May Hashem grant you success in all this; everything depends only on your will, for both the abilities and strengths are already in your hands.

Blessings for good news in all mentioned above. Regards to all your friends.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that with sincere commitment and reflection on Chassidus teachings, one can overcome challenges. Success depends on one's own willpower—strengths are already within—and continued effort brings greater spiritual growth.