Rabbi Nachman of Horodenka was a close colleague of the Baal Shem Tov. His son, Rabbi Simcha, married the Baal Shem Tov’s granddaughter, Feiga. Their son, the famed Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, became the founder of Breslov Chassidism. The Baal Shem Tov once asked Rabbi Nachman of Horodenka to deliver a letter to Rabbi Dov Ber of Mezritch (who later became known as the Mezritcher Maggid) in which he attempted to persuade Rabbi Dov Ber to become his disciple. Upon receiving the letter, Rabbi Dov Ber said, “I see an auspicious sign in the student who bears this letter. If Rabbi Nachman of Horodenka is such a holy tzaddik, how much more so is his teacher—the Baal Shem Tov.” Rabbi Dov Ber then agreed to meet with the Baal Shem Tov and later to join the Chassidic movement.
This is my G‑d, and I will praise Him, the G‑d of my father, and I will exalt him.
Exodus 15:2
When He is only the G‑d of your father, He remains exalted and beyond your world. When you make Him your own G‑d, then you can truly praise Him with your heart.
Rabbi Isaiah Horowitz (16th century)
Only a fool will toss out the inheritance of many generations. But one who does not take ownership remains a child.
So it is with a material estate, so it is with the faith of our fathers and mothers. We must make it our own faith, as well.
And how do you make that faith your own? Ironically, through the power of your own mind.
Engage your mind to live by your faith.