By the Grace of G-d 23rd of Menachem Av 5719, Brooklyn, N.Y.

Sholom uBrocho:

I received your letter of the 15th of Menachem Av, and was pleased to read in it about your progress in learning. Though you do not mention it, I trust you have chavrusso for learning together with a friend, for such learning is more enjoyable and more thorough.

You write that you lack in the quality of serving G-d with joy and gladness of heart, as required. I suggest that you discuss this with the Mashpia of Chasidus so that he can show you the sources in the Tanya and in Maamorim where the subject is treated. You can also look up the index at the end of the Tanya and Torah Or to find such places yourself, also.

As for the question whether you should become a full-time student at the Yeshivah, there are many aspects involved which cannot be discussed in writing. Therefore it would again be advisable for you to discuss the matter with Yeshivah administration who know you, especially Rabbi Nissan Mangel.

With reference to your birthday, they will tell you at the Yeshivah how a birthday is observed by Yeshivah boys.¹ May G-d bless you with a successful year, materially and spiritually.

As requested, I will remember in prayer all those you mention in your letter.

With blessing

By Nissan Mindel