B.H.10th of Cheshvan, 5723Brooklyn, N.Y.

Sholom uBrocho;

In reply to your letter, you should bear in mind that our Sages said: "Try hard and you will succeed."¹ Therefore it is up to you. And while it is true that a good Chaver is of the utmost importance, in the final analysis it is the personal effort that is the deciding factor. Where there is a determined effort, it is possible to succeed even with the help of a weak Chaver, or even without a chaver.

Do not be wrapped up in yourself and, above all, do not exaggerate your problems or difficulties, but apply yourself to your learning with devotion and diligence, and then, as above, if you will really try hard you are certain to succeed.

With blessing,