Ki Tavo: To the Pioneers
Dear Friend,
I've been following the Mars-One initiative with avid interest, and it's had me thinking about pioneers.
For the uninitiated, the Mars-One venture aims to start sending small groups of humans to live on Mars in just 10 years’ time. The catch—it’s a one-way ticket. The first group of four is scheduled for departure in September 2022. Who will they be? Considering 78,000 people signed up within the first two weeks, I think it’s safe to say those selected to begin training will be pioneers in every sense of the word: determined, courageous, idealistic, adventurous and of indomitable spirit.
While this venture might seem way "out there" to us, we don't have to look very far back to find the pioneers who have not just innovated in their own lives, but reached out and shaped our lives, as individuals, communities, and as a nation.
This Shabbat we celebrate the birthday of two such pioneers—Rabbi Israel Baal Shem Tov and Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi, founders of the Chassidic movement.
Despite vehement opposition, these giants remained committed to spreading Chassidic teachings. Without their devotion, we would not be here, reading Chabad.org today.
While most of us are not pioneers who will be recorded in the annals of history, we can be “small-scale” pioneers amongst our friends, families and communities.
When we share our Torah knowledge with those who know less, when we introduce a newcomer to our local synagogue, when we extend a hand to a fellow in need, we are adding to the legacy of the Chassidic pioneers, and taking small steps towards creating our own.
Miriam Szokovski
on behalf of the Chabad.org Editorial Team
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