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According to the Baal Shem Tov, Hashem leads the world like a compassionate mother who is trying to teach her small, tender child how to walk. She first stands him up on his feet, makes sure he’s steady, then distances herself from him a little so he can get used to walking on his own. And as he gets closer to her with small, stuttered steps, she once again pulls away, ever so slightly, encouraging him to walk a bit further.

Right after the first day of Pesach, we enter a seven-week cycle known as S’firas HaOmer (the Counting of the Omer). The 49 days from Pesach to Shavuos really represent a journey of 49 steps to spiritual growth and emotional refinement that help us renew our acceptance of the Torah on an individual level.

Under Zion’s sunny skies

Is where I want

To live and die.

An opportunity born from hatred yet sustained by heroism summarizes the kickstart and epic growth of the unique chesed initiative, Boots for Israel. In a string of random occurrences reminiscent of those of the approaching Purim holiday, Hamas’ surprise ambush on October 7, 2023, and fateful Jewish geography-like connections led to the phone call between BFI Founder Yakir Wachstock and IDF General Daniel Jacob. This became the first step of an impactful movement that shows no sign of slowing down as orders continue to flow in daily from IDF soldiers for BFI’s much-needed tactical boots.

Chazaq, in collaboration with renowned author and speaker Leah Richeimer, recently concluded a highly successful joint speaking tour focused on the topic of Shalom Bayis. Spanning from March 10 to March 13, the tour featured four engaging events held in the Five Towns, Lakewood, Queens, and Monsey.

A recent installment in Agudah’s three-part advocacy mission to Albany consisted of delegates from Queens and Long Island who traveled to meet with their legislators and discuss issues facing their communities.