By the Grace of G-d25th of Teveth Brooklyn, N.Y.

Greeting and Blessing:

In reply to your letter of 5th Teveth, in which you write about the progress you have been making in your learning, I trust you will not be satisfied with your present rate of progress, but you will try to do even better. You surely know that the saying of our Sages "He is rich who is satisfied with his lot,"¹ refers only to material things, but when it comes to spiritual things one should never be satisfied, as there is always room for improvement.² Moreover, one is expected to use all his qualities and ability in this direction, for G-d has not given them to us in vain, and expects them to be used to the full.³

I was especially pleased to read that you are also trying to be a good influence in your environment to bring closer to Yiddishkeit and Chassidus, those that are still removed from it, and you surely know that it is the duty of everyone to spread the fountains of Chassidus "outside", that is to include also those who are still outside for the present.

I trust you are careful in observing the Yeshivah program and schedules, both with regard to Nigleh and Chassidus. May G-d help you to serve as a good example to your friends, especially the students of Montreal, in this also.

Enclosed you will find a message, which although it was issued in connection with Chanukah, is timely all the year round, in as much as the purpose of a festival is to inspire not only during the period of the festival, but throughout the year.

With Blessing,

By Nissan Mindel

Enc.