By the Grace of G-d2 Shevat 5712Brooklyn, N.Y.

Blessing and Greeting:

I have received your letters of Teveth 11th and 24th.

I read with interest your effort in behalf of . . ., which you describe in your letter of the 11th. Apart from the good deed involved in trying to bring a Jewish child closer to our Heavenly Father, it is also beneficial for one's own self in getting a better insight into Jewish matters, and the Almighty helps overcome various hindrances, to enable one [to] see and feel the Truth to a greater degree and the Divine Light that vitalizes the world.

Referring to your second letter in which you ask for a blessing for you and your fiancé, May G-d fulfill your hearts' desires for good, that you may enjoy a happy life in every respect, both materially and spiritually, which, in Jewish life, go hand in hand for harmony and happiness.

When two people join their futures together, they propose to build an edifice which should be strong and lasting. In constructing a building, consideration is given to both the quality of the material and the outer appearance. But this applies only to the walls. However, as far as the foundation is concerned, the superficial appearance is of no importance whatever, for the important thing is the quality and durability of the material that goes into the foundation, upon which the entire structure depends.

Among us Jews, the Torah and Mitzvoth are the thoroughly tested material upon which to build a Jewish home. And since this is the 'foundation,' it should be built with utter disregard for anything that other people might think or say about it from their point of view.

With all good wishes,

Cordially