While the Rebbe was leaving the shul following maariv on Friday night, I started a lively niggun (tune). A girl asked her father why they were singing today and she was told, “Because Jaffe is here.” A bochur (young man) approached me a few days later and said it was obvious that the Rebbe was very happy and delighted to see me. Well, I too am delighted (and proud) to think that I make the Rebbe happy. But why oh why then does nobody follow my example, ensuring that the Rebbe be surrounded with happy faces? Every year, I emphasize this point. I assure everyone that the rewards are immediate and well worthwhile, to bask in the Rebbe’s glorious smile; it is a wonderful feeling. Yet still, few take any notice!

As I left the shul, I was approached by Rabbi Groner. He had brought along his daughter Gittel, aged 16, who had expressed the wish to be introduced to the “author of the diary.” What a charming young lady and what a beautiful compliment. (Or, what a beautiful young lady and what a charming compliment.)

Anyway, I can now boast of a fan club of one, but a very nice one.

On Shabbos morning, Sivan 2 (June 2), I was lucky to be called up for the best aliyah, Shviee (the second to last aliyah). Some literally wait years before they have the privilege of even one aliyah at the Rebbe’s minyan; it is a great zechus and tribute for any visitor coming to 770 and davening with the Rebbe.

I think it is the best aliyah, because after this one the Rebbe is called up for maftir. Being next to the Rebbe, I am able to hear the Rebbe’s haftorah very well. I can actually see the Rebbe’s finger following the text, word by word. And finally, when the Rebbe has concluded and is leaving the bimah (Torah reading platform), one can say with deep sincerity: “Always follow in the Rebbe’s footsteps and you will come to no harm.” I therefore dash off the bimah in the wake of the Rebbe and within seconds I am back in my place safe and sound, having followed the Rebbe to safety.


I am constantly amazed when seeing this solid mass of people through whom, upon the Rebbe’s approach, a pathway is spontaneously and miraculously opened up to let the Rebbe pass. Another miracle is how immediately afterwards, in the fraction of a second it takes the Rebbe to pass, this path is closed up again. Almost as big a miracle as the parting of the waters at the Red Sea!

During musaf we sang “Hu Elokeinu.” By now, everyone must know that the Rebbe enjoys this singing. But yet only when I am present to initiate it does this singing take place! It is truly astonishing to me. I cannot understand their mentality at all.