6325 —התגברות על יאוש, מאבקים רוחניים, והדרכה מעשית

B"H, 22 Sivan, 5718. Brooklyn.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

In response to your letter from Wednesday, you write about your state of mind and that in your opinion you are not capable regarding the matter ^[1], etc., and have almost come to despair, etc.

There is no need to elaborate that all matters which are contrary to Torah can be nullified by a Jewish person; therefore it is also necessary. And if, as you write, you have come to despair and feel unfit for family life, this is only the enticement of the yetzer hara. It is understood that one must fight against these thoughts in accordance with the Creator's will [and furthermore it is explained in the holy Zohar that even the yetzer hara's intention is that one should not listen to him; see Zohar part II 163a]. The matter depends only on your will. And if according to your opinion this matter is connected with difficulties, this does not mean it is impossible—according to the camel is its load.

It would be appropriate for you to have your tefillin checked as well as the mezuzot in your home. Every weekday before morning prayers, set aside some coins for charity and maintain the three known daily study portions of Chumash, Tehillim, and Tanya. We have heard many times from my revered father-in-law, the Rebbe zatzal nishmaso Eden (may his merit protect us), that these are suitable for every soul and are a remedy for many matters.

Blessings for good news in all mentioned above.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that despair and feelings of inadequacy stem from the yetzer hara and can be overcome through willpower and practical steps—spiritual checks (tefillin/mezuzot), daily charity, and consistent Torah study—bringing blessing into one's life.