LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Dear Editor,

Over the summer there were several organizations, including the JCCMP, that ran weekly food distributions. Even though most have ceased, I just wanted to thank all the schools, volunteers, and nonprofits for all their hard work (especially during the unbearable heat!) in supplying food to people in our community. I know I don’t just speak for my family when I say that the packages really helped out a lot. It was also a huge kiddush Hashem!  

C.S.

Dear Editor,

I noticed you stopped running the financial column from Mesilah. I really enjoyed reading it and learning valuable advice. Can you bring it back, or print another column on money saving ideas? 

R.T.

Dear Editor,

Thank you for the wonderful feature on the Lubavitcher Rebbe, zt”l. Although I do not have a story to share and I am not a Lubavitch chassid, I will never forget the time my father brought me as a child to get a dollar from the Rebbe. Even at that young age, I knew I was in the presence of holiness. It’s hard to believe that it has been 26 years since the passing of this great tzaddik. I know that as time continues to pass, even more stories of his greatness will emerge to inspire us all. 

Tzvi B. 

Dear Editor, 

Amid all the heartwarming stories of families who benefitted from the forced togetherness during the height of the pandemic, it was comforting to read about OHEL’s help to those of us who were unable to manage very well. Not everyone found the time together beneficial for their family unit – including me. As someone who struggles with anxiety and has several children with behavioral issues, the weeks at home were extremely difficult. OHEL has done much for our community in educating the greater public about mental issues. In this most difficult time, the organization has proven to be on target with its approach to families like mine, helping us navigate waters that are choppier than we would like to admit. 

S.E. 

Dear Editor, 

Rabbi Student’s article on why epidemics happen was fascinating – and inspiring. “G-d can start or prevent an epidemic and save us from it after it begins,” he writes. “Mabit says that it is our job to extinguish the epidemic through charity, repentance, and good deeds.” We have always learned that teshuvah, tefillah, and tzedakah can change decrees, but at this confusing time, when we are all seeking to strengthen our emunah, it is good to see those words in print in this context. 

Malka F.