When Health is in Conflict With Social Activism

By the Grace of G‑d
12th of Adar, 5721 [February 28, 1961]
Brooklyn, N. Y.

Blessing and Greeting:

I regret that because of pressure of duties, there was an unavoidable delay in my reply to your letter, which was supplemented orally by your husband when he visited me.

With regard to the question of moving to a new home, generally speaking, the attitude should be an unhurried one, not to rush into anything. When the proper opportunity presents itself, you should consider it on its merits, and if you like the proposition, you should go ahead with it. As for the date, whether it should be before the month of May or after May, you should leave this to Divine Providence, for the deciding factor should be the proposition itself.

You write that in the past you were able to do several things at the same time, but now it appears to you that you have to do one thing at a time. In general, it is not a reflection [of anything negative about you, that you need to limit yourself] to do one thing at a time, and as for the frame of mind, etc., the best thing is to dwell as little as possible on this, for things will straighten themselves out…

With regard to your question relating to your social activities, etc., such activities should also be in moderation, to fit the circumstances. For every Jew, whether man or woman, is duty-bound to practise the commandment of Ahavas Yisroel [love of your fellow Jew], especially in the light of the teachings of Chassidus [Chassidism]. On the other hand, such activities should not be conducted in a way that would conflict with other commitments, nor in a way that might put a strain on one's health, since taking care of one's health is also a Divine commandment.

Needless to say, in connection with the above, it is impossible to make rigid rules as to exactly how much time to devote to one thing and how much to another. But generally things fall in line and in their proper place, and there is usually a workable margin and flexibility for adjustment.

With only a couple of days before Purim, the auspicious festival of joy, may G‑d grant that it bring you and yours an increased measure of joy and happiness, materially and spiritually.

Hoping to hear good news from you, and wishing you and yours a happy and inspiring Purim,

With blessing, [signed by the secretary]