Shiurim in this topic
Yales was a correspondent from Philadelphia who wrote to the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, regarding matters of personal and communal significance, particularly in connection with the yahrzeit (anniversary of passing) of his father, described as a "righteous chassid."
The Rebbe's letter to Yales acknowledges receiving a communication from him shortly before the Rebbe's visit to the Ohel (resting place) of his revered father-in-law, the previous Lubavitcher Rebbe. The Rebbe assured Yales that he mentioned him and his family in prayer for all their needs, as requested. The letter expresses the Rebbe's confidence that the merit of the departed tzaddik (righteous person) would bring about success for Yales and his family, both materially and spiritually.
The Rebbe also confirms receipt and delivery of a donation from Yales, given in honor of his father's yahrzeit, and encloses a receipt. This highlights the ongoing connection between the Rebbe and his correspondents, especially regarding acts of charity and remembrance of loved ones.
In his letter, the Rebbe shares a Torah insight from the recently published Kuntres Eichah, discussing the similarity between Yom Kippur and Tisha B'Av—specifically, the custom of not wearing leather shoes on both days, albeit for different reasons. The Rebbe elaborates on the spiritual significance of this practice, connecting it to the concept that "the depth of height is connected with the depth of below," and expressing hope for the transformation of mourning into joy, as promised in the prophecies regarding the future redemption.
The Rebbe notes the Divine Providence in the fact that the yahrzeit of Yales's father coincides with Tisha B'Av that year, a day when wearing leather shoes is also forbidden. He emphasizes the special significance of this for those connected to Torah and mitzvos, and reflects on the yahrzeit as a time of spiritual elevation.