6509 —על קבלת מרות ומשמעת בבית הספר

B"H, 4 Tishrei, 5719. Brooklyn.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

I was saddened by the report that reached here, that an issue has arisen regarding a lack of acceptance of authority by so-and-so in the school...

In this matter, it is not at all relevant or appropriate to compare or evaluate the person who must accept discipline and the principal; for there is no comparison between individuals here, but rather between positions. A subtle example of this—though on a much more refined level—is the well-known story about Rabbi Yehoshua and Rabban Gamliel. In fact, in our case, it is even more necessary, since a lack of acceptance of authority and discipline directly undermines the intended purpose for the students.

There is no need to elaborate on these matters at this time—between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur—especially since these very days are about accepting authority and discipline without any involvement of one's own intellect or reasoning, beginning with accepting the yoke on Rosh Hashanah for the entire year. May I soon hear good news by return mail—that either there was never such a lack as mentioned above or at least from now on the matter has been completely corrected.

With blessings for good tidings and inscription for a good year and gemar chasimah tovah,
In the name of the Rebbe shlita,
Secretary

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that respect for authority in school is essential regardless of personal feelings toward individuals. This principle is especially relevant during the Days of Awe when we focus on accepting G‑d's sovereignty with humility and discipline.