Dearest Friends,
Spring has finally arrived. The world has come back to life after a long winter and I for one am delighted to greet the blossoming trees and gorgeous flowers that are popping out in the park across the street from my home. The spring has always been a season of rebirth, restoration, rejuvenation. Let the sun work its magic.. warming our very souls.
Rabbi Yitzchak Kirzner zTl had a major impact upon his students. Sadly, he died at a young age. Amazingly, throughout his illness and treatments, he continued to teach. He actually gave a series of classes on the topic of suffering, whilst he was undergoing treatments himself. His writings and his classes, are valuable tools for those dealing with challenges. Rabbi Kirzner would state, “The pain of childbirth leads to the birth of a child; the pain of suffering leads to the pain of one’s self.”
One emerges from pain and sorrow a different person. It’s a journey we all embark upon at some point in our lives, as birth and death are both integral aspects of life as we know it. As we suffer through the loss of a loved one, G-d forbid, we should keep in mind that this is a journey not only for the one moving on to the Olam HaEmes, but it is a journey for those left behind. There are lessons we absorb along the way. If we see this as a learning experience, a growth experience, all stand to benefit. An understanding and appreciation of this final journey, enables one to appreciate life even more. Every moment is precious. Every relationship is cherished.
Bassi Gruen writes in familyfirst/Mishpacha, “For a Jew, every last day even the most final, is also a beginning. As Hashem closes one door, He is opening another. And that is a source of joy.”
Rabbi Avigdor Miller zTl shared with us that each of our lives is a storybook. Our lives consist of chapters. When one chapter ends, another begins. The transitions may be stressful and challenging. But each new chapter holds the promise of new beginnings. As we watch each chapter unfold, let’s acknowledge that we are the major players in our lives. We cannot control the events, but we can control our reactions. To a great degree, we can write the chapters in our lives.
May each chapter be filled with joy and beauty, as we take comfort and energy from the world of nature that is quickly springing back to life.
Very best to all!! Miriam Liebermann
