Chaskel Besser

My father in law was an etrog merchant, and every year he would bring the Rebbe some very exceptional etrogim. The Rebbe would always inquire about that year's crop and the quality of the year's fruit.

I noticed to my puzzlement that in Chabad they learned exclusively the chassidic teachings of the Chabad-Lubavitch Rebbes.

My father-in-law turned to the Rebbe and said, "If the Rebbe would come to Israel, it would do so much good for those living there."

My partner handed the Rebbe a note he'd prepared with the name of his sickly relative and some details about her condition. As the Rebbe read the details, his face transformed before our eyes; from welcoming and jovial to somber and serious.