Perseverance in Outreach and Sensitivity in Guidance

Holy Letters of the Rebbe – Volume 15, Letter 5424
Baruch Hashem, the 4th of Iyar, 5717, Brooklyn.

Addressed to the chossid, Shmuel Yosef שי׳ Pindrik, Netanya. Shalom u’Vracha.

The Rebbe writes in response to his letter sent before Pesach, which took a long time to arrive. The Rebbe notes that although the letter was delayed in reaching him, he is answering promptly.

Regarding what he wrote about the results of his activities, it appears that he was discouraged that his efforts had not produced the level of success he had hoped for. The Rebbe responds with surprise: why is there room for doubt or discouragement? Our holy Rebbes have already taught that when one puts genuine effort into holy work, it is a chazakah—an established certainty—that such effort does not return empty-handed.

The Rebbe explains that results can come in different forms and degrees. Sometimes they are good, sometimes even better, and sometimes exceptionally good. But in every case, there is always some positive outcome. Therefore, there is no place for disappointment or weakness, and certainly no room to consider stopping. One must continue steadfastly, knowing that every sincere effort bears fruit.

The writer had also asked how strongly he should press another person regarding mitzvah observance—whether urging more stringency or a higher standard might cause the person to pull away.

The Rebbe answers that there is no single formula that applies to every case. Everything depends on the character of the individual and the specific circumstances. At times, the proper approach is restraint, as our sages teach that sometimes it is better not to protest if doing so will only lead to deliberate violation. At other times, the Torah commands rebuke and repeated encouragement, even many times. Wisdom is required to know which approach fits each situation.

The Rebbe then writes that, as requested, he will mention him, as well as Mr. Chaim Manush שליט״א, at the holy tziyun of his father-in-law, the Rebbe, for all their needs in general, and especially that they should prepare properly for the festival of Shavuos and receive the Torah with joy and inwardness.

The Rebbe adds that this message is especially meaningful during the days of Sefirah, when each passing day brings added light and growth. In counting the Omer, we say “today is two days,” not merely “the second day,” because the light and accomplishment of the first day remain and are carried into the second day, which then adds its own light. So too, each day of Sefirah builds upon all that came before it.

This process continues until we arrive at Matan Torah, when the Divine voice of Anochi Hashem Elokecha was heard from every direction—from all four corners, above and below.

The Rebbe concludes with blessings for good news.

The letter carries a clear message of encouragement: never become discouraged by limited results, use wisdom in guiding others, and recognize that every day of sincere effort adds enduring light and brings one closer to receiving the Torah anew.