By the Grace of G-d12th of Teves, 5744Brooklyn, N.Y.

Greeting and Blessing:

I am in receipt of your letter of Dec. 9th.

First of all, I must take a stand in regard to your writing that there is "absolutely nothing to be done," etc. I trust there is no need to point out to you that a human being can never be so categorical, and only HaShem Himself can speak in terms of the "absolute."

While there is some justification not to be deluded with false hopes, at the same time it is by no means to be taken as absolutely hopeless and the like, since a human being can never know what change may take place tomorrow or the day after.

On the other hand, what is absolutely certain is what is written in the Torah, namely that HaShem has given every Jew the privilege and duty to fulfill His Mitzvoth, and that these Divine precepts are the very "channels and vessels" for a Jew to receive G-d's blessings in all needs. Thus, the Torah declares clearly, "If you will walk in My statutes, and keep My commandments, and do them..." then follows the assurance of G-d's blessings both materially and spiritually (Lev. 26:3 ff.). Whether the Divine blessings will amount to 100%, or 49% or 51% — this is up to HaShem, but certain it is that strengthening one’s trust in G-d and advancing in matters of Yiddishkeit in the everyday life and conduct is bound to bring one G-d's blessings.

The above is all the easier to realize when the problem is connected with health, since, in the area of medical science, we have seen in recent decades, and even more so in recent years, what revolutionary changes have been made in regard to the treatment of various illnesses with ever new wonder drugs that bring relief and cure and prolong life, etc., — changes and discoveries which one had not expected even a day before.

All physicians agree, and it is based on experience, that the stronger is the patient's faith and confidence, the more beneficial an impact it has on the actual curative process, though why it is so is not very clear. But it is a fact and a matter of experience.

I trust there is no need to elaborate further on this subject. The important thing is, and I suggest it to you with all my heart, to strengthen your trust in HaShem, and to widen the "channels and vessels" mentioned before; not to brood, and divert attention as much as possible from oneself, through carrying on with normal activities, and being helpful, as much as possible, to others in one's surroundings.

If you will let me know your full Jewish name, together with your mother's Jewish name, as is customary, I will remember you in prayer when visiting the holy resting place of my father-in-law of saintly memory.

May G-d grant that you should have good news to report in all above.

With blessing,

P.S. It is particularly customary in such a situation to have the Tefillin and Mezuzoth checked to make sure they are Kosher, and to be extra careful in the observance of Kashrus of foods and beverages.