5862 —הבהרת המנהג של סעודה שלישית

B"H, 20th of Marcheshvan, 5718. Brooklyn.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

In response to your letter from the 16th of Cheshvan, in which you write regarding the third meal of Shabbos (Shalosh Seudos).

Your question is surprising, since what is printed in Hayom Yom is exactly as I heard from my father-in-law, the previous Rebbe, of blessed memory, and it was printed during his lifetime in this world; he also saw what was printed there after its publication.

Incidentally, what is quoted there regarding Shalosh Seudos is as it appears in a maamar of Chassidus by my grandfather, the Rebbe Rashab, in the discourse "Meheirah Yishama," 5648 (1888). As was his way, he does not mention anything about influencing others through his actions, even though one could justify that habit becomes second nature. However, it has already been explained at length how important it is to change one's natural traits—especially since this is among the core ideas of Chassidus—as explained in the talks from 5693 (Simchas Torah).

May it be G‑d's will that at least from now on this conduct will change. I am concerned that "regarding others" includes also your wife and children—meaning that you do not dedicate enough time as necessary to guide them with pleasantness and so forth.

Blessings for good news in all the above and in other matters you mention.

Summary

The Rebbe clarifies that established practices regarding Shalosh Seudos are based on reliable sources and stresses personal growth and guiding one's family with care and pleasantness.