Igrot Kodesh · Letter 4673 — Faith & Bitachon

B"H

1 Elul 5716

Brooklyn

Blessings and greetings,

I am responding to your letter of 21 Menachem Av, in which you give the reason and the explanation for your no longer participating, recently, in the activities of the organization of Chabad* women and girls in particular. This is the result of the advice given to you by the doctors.

It is quite evident that one must follow doctors' instructions. Our Sages, of blessed memory, emphasize that "the Torah has authorized the physician to heal." However, an activity whose purpose is to gather people, which one knows is beneficial to a certain circle — spiritually, materially, or both — cannot weaken the person who carries it out. On the contrary, she is thereby strengthened, not only in the spiritual dimension but also, in the most literal sense, in her health. The doctors themselves acknowledge that this is so. They therefore advise everyone to be active, according to his or her situation.

Taking into account all that has been said, here is my opinion on the question you pose.

You must take an active part in the endeavors of Chabad women and girls, including, for example, those that benefit Yeshivas Achei Temimim* of Tel Aviv. One can no doubt arrange things so that you do not have to climb stairs, since you write that this is not easy for you.

I am convinced that if you consult with your doctor, who has noted that you are doing better than before — and it is precisely for this reason that you follow his instructions — he will fully confirm everything that has been said.

Moreover, we know that by acting positively toward one's fellow, one broadens the blessings of Hashem in all one's needs — for the person who acts in this way and for all the members of her family.

It is surely unnecessary to remind you of the teaching of Chassidus* that everything must be accomplished joyfully. In this way, the success will be greater.

I send you my blessing to give good news of all that has been said and to be inscribed and sealed for a good year, together with all your family.