This week communities all around the world spent time reflecting on the Rebbe and his inspiration and leadership. One of my colleagues shared this moving story that demonstrates the Rebbe’s caring for all of G-d’s children.
A Chabad couple in Miami Beach visited a therapist with one of their children. The therapist, an African-American woman, had a picture of the Rebbe prominently displayed on her wall. When they finish the session they inquired about the picture.
She related to them that she was from Crown Heights in Brooklyn. After her marriage to a prominent attorney, they lived across the street from the Rebbe’s home. The Rebbe would often wave his hand in greeting but they did not interact much more than that. Upon her husband’s sudden passing, the funeral procession began just as the Rebbe was leaving his house. The Rebbe respectfully waited as the procession passed. A few weeks later the Rebbe saw her and crossed the street to express his condolences. He inquired how she was doing, to which she replied that it was still very fresh and painful. He then asked her permission to give some advice?
The Rebbe advised her to sell her house and move to a new place like Miami Beach where she could reconnect with her faith, and start anew. A few months later she decided to take the Rebbe's advice. On the first Sunday at her new congregation in Miami, the pastor introduced her to a recently widowed doctor, whom she eventually married.
“So,” she says to this couple, “the picture on the wall is of the Rebbe - but also my matchmaker."
Mazel tov to my parents Rabbi Zelig and Bluma Rivkin upon the engagement of their daughter Mushka to Peretz Kazen. Thank G-d it is shaping up to be a busy season for Simchas. Many more for the entire community!
Condolences to the Burk family upon the passing of their husband, father and grandfather, Maurice Burk. May Hashem comfort them among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.
The Jewish Art Calendar advertising campaign is underway. Please refer to the previous email or contact me directly for details or more info.
Shabbat Shalom and a safe summer to all.
Rabbi Mendel Rivkin