8058 —אמונה בעת קשיים כלכליים ומילוי חובות רוחניים

B"H, 24 Tammuz, 5715. Brooklyn.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

In response to your letter from today. I am pleased that you remain strong in your faith in Hashem and are not at all affected by what has happened regarding the purchase of your house, for such discouragement has no basis, G‑d forbid. Surely, little by little, all the debts will be paid off. May it be G‑d's will that you repay not only the material debts but also the spiritual ones—that is, a person's obligations in fulfilling his mission—as the Mishnah says: Ani nivra'ti leshamesh et koni ("I was created to serve my Creator"). May this be with proper health and may it add to your good health, as our Sages say about the chayot of the Merkavah who carry and are carried.

Along these lines, I am pleased to read the following sections in your letter—about your public teaching of necessary halachot and your activities with individuals among Bnei Yisrael, and that... assist in this. May it be with success.

Regarding what you wrote about Mr.... shiyichyeh and how to influence him: It is known in such cases to speak again and again, etc., as in the well-known story from Avot d'Rabbi Natan etc., that even stones were worn down by water—and all the more so a heart of stone among Bnei Yisrael; for this term "stone" is only borrowed here, and those familiar with this need no proof.

Blessings for a healthy and joyful summer and for good news in all the above.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches us to maintain unwavering faith during financial hardships while diligently fulfilling both our material and spiritual responsibilities. Persistent effort in influencing others positively—like water wearing down stone—brings true success.