As Klal Yisrael’s preparations for Pesach kick into high gear, Purim is probably not on our minds. But I must share with you, briefly, the Kiddush Hashem that our talmidim performed over Purim.
A few weeks ago I shared with you my concerns about excessive drinking. I am thrilled to report that we had hardly any issues on this front at the Yeshiva. On the contrary, our talmidim were in buoyant spirits without debasing or endangering themselves. Moreover, they did something truly remarkable.
Each year our talmidim devote Purim to fundraising. Not for the Yeshiva, but for needy families. This year was no different, and the boys went beyond our expectations, raising $180,000 despite the snowstorm and their inability to travel as much as previous years. This is a Kiddush Hashem in itself.
What was different this year was the snow – and how so many of our groups reacted to it. I was told of countless cases where the talmidim arrived at a home, danced, made their solicitation, thanked the hosts, and then proceeded to grab any shovels within view on the property and cleared the walk and front steps – so that the families would have an easier time navigating the still-falling snow. This meant a delay in their planned ‘routes’ to other homes, but they felt that this was an important chesed opportunity that couldn’t be lost.
This is but the latest example of the never-ending Hatovoh – of seeking and doing good for others – exhibited by Yeshiva Darchei Torah talmidim.
You, the parents, should be proud of your sons.
May Hashem give you all continued nachas.
Chag Kosher V’sameiach.
Rabbi Yaakov Bender
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