5330 —השפעה על אחרים והרחבת החסידות

B"H, 2nd of Nissan, 5717.

Brooklyn.

The Avrech Menachem Ben Tzion.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

After a long break, your letter from the 23rd of Adar was received. Regarding your question about how to influence a certain Avrech, it is understood that there are no fixed rules like nails, as this depends on the character of the person you wish to influence. In any case, as is clearly seen in most cases, arguments are not an effective way to influence; as our Sages said: "Whatever departs more easily is better." Even if he wishes to argue, you should explain that he can do so after some time and not necessarily at the beginning of receiving the influence. The influence should come through learning Chassidus and explaining its concepts through speech—not just with words stripped of Chassidus. It is also proper to consult with others who know him and his character well, for it is already said: "Salvation comes with many counselors."

It is distressing what you wrote—that sometimes when the chassid, a man of great deeds etc., Harav Tzvi Cohen comes to his class, he finds only two or one listener. Still, it is understood that one must come regardless, for whoever sustains even one Jewish soul is considered as if he sustained an entire world. However, it is clear that spreading Chassidus happens when the number of listeners increases not only in quality but also in quantity.

As for what you wrote about difficulties—it is astonishing that you listen to the enticements of the yetzer (evil inclination) claiming there are difficulties when it is known from Above's ruling: because of the self-sacrifice of Rabbeinu HaZaken for Chassidus, it was decreed in the Heavenly Court that in all matters of Torah, fear of Heaven, and good character traits—the hand of his followers will prevail (printed in Sefer Kitzurim v'He'aros L'Tanya end of page 122). And anything destined to be nullified is considered already nullified.

The recitation of "Lamnatzeach Ya'ancha... Tefillah L'David..."—according to Chabad custom—depends on whether Tachanun is recited...

Certainly preparations are being made to utilize the days of Pesach also for spreading the wellsprings in addition to distributing Shmurah Matzah as in previous years—but with an increase.

With blessings for a kosher and joyous Pesach holiday,
In the name of His Honor the Rebbe shlita,
The secretary

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that influencing others requires sensitivity to their unique character and emphasizes spreading Chassidus through learning and personal connection rather than argument. Even small efforts matter greatly; perseverance brings success in spiritual endeavors.