8031 —התגברות על קשיים, שמחה בתורה ובמצוות, וברכות לשנה החדשה

B"H, 3 Tishrei, 5715. Brooklyn.

Haraha"ch vavac"h iy"a nu"n etc. Moshe Ashkenazi

Shalom u'Vrachah!

In response to your letter from the 22nd of Elul with two panim nefesh included, which I will read at an auspicious time at the holy resting place of my father-in-law, the Rebbe zatzal nishmaso Eden, it is clear that despite all you have been through, there is absolutely no reason for despair, G‑d forbid. Trust in Hashem to fill what is lacking; not only that, but also to bring abundance—both spiritually and materially—provided that appropriate vessels are made for this by increasing in matters of Torah and mitzvos and engaging in natural efforts. All this should be done with joy, which breaks through barriers and removes limitations.

I now wish to express my deep gratitude for the Sefer Torah that was brought about two days before Rosh Hashanah and was read from on this Rosh Hashanah. According to Zohar II:161b—that just as the Holy One looked into the Torah and created the world, so too does a Jewish person create his world through Torah—and those who help make it possible are included as well—it is my prayer that in this new year you will see your world renewed with revealed goodness regarding yourself, your wife, and all your children.

May Hashem grant that your wife's pregnancy be completed properly and easily, and she should give birth to a healthy child at its proper time easily.

With blessings for inscription and sealing for good.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that even after difficulties one must not despair; by increasing in Torah, mitzvos, natural effort—and especially serving with joy—one becomes a vessel for both spiritual and material blessings. Gratitude is expressed for communal efforts like donating a Sefer Torah.