Yesterday, the victims of the Mumbai massacre (HY”D) were lay to rest.
Zichronim L’vrocho.
Now, with our tears shed, and our hearts still aching, we turn to H-shem for the reassurance that their bold, unwitting sacrifice will enliven us for the good that is ever-present in us.
The speeches at yesterday’s funeral were meaningful and inspiring. It is now our turn not to mourn the dead but to celebrate and emulate what they did in their lifetime.
And before we start arguing over which State dignitary did or did not show to whose funeral, let us remind ourselves that each person is loved and appreciated the same especially once the soul has departed for Gan Eden.
We must keep our focus on doing those things the deceased can no longer do:
We’re still here. Boruch H-shem. We can still inspire the whole world for goodness. Boruch H-shem. We still have Jews who need a fellow Jew’s guidance in focusing their lives toward H-shem and His Torah.
You may then ask yourself, “What can I do?”
PLENTY!!!!
The Rebbe Shlit”a Menachem Mendel Schneerson taught us that it is the effort that counts. Just as much as the appropriate action. Your efforts for good and for Torah and for your fellow Jew go to lengths and into Spheres we can barely identify.
The Alter Rebbe (the first Lubavitcher Rebbe) taught that although our mitzvos and kavanos of the mind and speech are essential to their completion, it is the action that lifts the mundane, coarse objects we have around us into the Holiest and loftiest things known in all Creation.
So, study Torah with someone. Over the phone, or in person. Find a friend to talk to about those things that trouble you or don’t make sense.
Our Sages teach us: Aseh L’cho Rav U’kneh L’cho Chaver. Make for yourself a Rav (teacher) and acquire for yourself a Chaver (friend).
Achieve these two things, and you’ll begin to see this gashmiusdike (physical) world as wonderful, bright place to live and lift. Not the scary, dark hole (Chas V’sholom) some say it is.
May this post and what you learn from it merit for the coming of Moshiach speedily in our times.
