6052 - Guidance at a Crossroads

The holy letters of the Rebbe, Volume 16, letter number 6052. Baruch Hashem, the 14th of Shevat, 5718, Brooklyn. Berachah v’Shalom.

This letter is addressed to a woman who is writing to the Rebbe regarding her brother and seeking guidance for him. She explains that her brother has completed his service in the army. As is often the case, after spending several years in the army, the question arises as to what one should do next. The Rebbe addresses this crossroads and offers clear direction.

The Rebbe begins by noting that he is responding to her letter, which did not include a date. She writes about her brother, may he live, who considers himself at a turning point in life. After completing his army service, he also studied in a mechanics course, yet he has still not decided how to settle into life. He is now 22 years old.

The Rebbe states that his opinion is very clear, based on what he has observed among youth in many countries, including his close examination of youth in the Holy Land. He explains that the years around this age, in most cases, serve as preparation for the entirety of one’s later life. These years lay the foundation for everything that follows.

Therefore, every effort invested during this period in building a solid worldview and life outlook is worthwhile. One should not rush or be sparing with time at this stage, because this investment yields returns many times over—benefiting a person for decades to come. Especially in our era, which is filled with upheaval and confusion, a firm and well-grounded outlook on life is absolutely necessary.

Without a settled worldview, the Rebbe explains, it is impossible to attain peace of mind and inner harmony. These are essential conditions for a balanced and healthy life.

Based on all of the above, the Rebbe concludes that her brother should dedicate at least six months to a year to studying the holy Torah, which is called Torat Chaim—a Torah of life. This description is meant literally: Torah provides guidance for life in this world, in everyday weekday life, not only on Shabbat, festivals, or the Days of Awe. It is a complete way of living.

The Rebbe emphasizes that this is not wasted time. On the contrary, it strengthens a person for the many decades that follow. After her brother completes this period of “fortification,” he will then be able to decide—based on his clarified outlook—how and where he should settle.

The Rebbe further notes that the most effective form of influence is not achieved through words alone, but through action—by being a living example of the values one seeks to convey. In this context, the Rebbe addresses the sister herself. If, through her conduct and lifestyle, she serves as a living example of how a Jewish woman lives—each Jewish woman being called a daughter of Sarah, Rivkah, Rachel, and Leah—this will have a powerful influence on her family, including her brother.

Finally, the Rebbe responds to a remark she made at the beginning of her letter, stating that she is “not a Chabadnik.” The Rebbe challenges this statement, citing the teaching of the Alter Rebbe, the author of the Tanya and founder of Chabad Chassidus, who taught that this path is the inheritance of the entire Jewish people—men and women alike.

The Rebbe explains that the philosophy itself is not at fault if certain groups have not yet fully embraced it. In many cases, this is due to lack of knowledge or external circumstances, which will be corrected over time. This does not diminish their connection to Chabad, which belongs to all.

The Rebbe concludes with a blessing for good news in all of the above and for success in her positive influence within her surroundings, in accordance with everything he outlined.