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It is a mitzvah of the Torah to count the days between Pesach and Shavuos – for Shavuos marks the calendar date when Hashem gave us the Torah. Although Iyar does not contain many holidays, every single day of the month is included in the S’firas HaOmer counting. S’firas HaOmer is a period of serious introspection and self-refinement, as we prepare ourselves to receive the Torah anew on Shavuos. Each day of Iyar represents another step in this spiritual journey toward Sinai.

During these days of the Corona challenge, everyone is focused on what needs to be done now; masks, gloves, social distancing, washing hands etc… but very little, if anything, is being done on what happens the day this all ends. In my opinion, this is where our focus needs to be. Yes, the authorities, security forces and medical personnel still need to work on the present – and a big “Yasher Koach” for everything they are doing – but we, as individuals need to start planning what will happen when the gloves come off (wow… how that expression has changed!!)

Please recite Psalms 20, 30, 88, 121, and 130.

HaGaon HaRav Matis Blum zt”l was a true hidden Torah gem of Queens. He was unpretentious and the precise definition of a talmid chacham brandishing anivus. Rav Blum was known to always see the positive in everyone and never utter a harmful word, frequently expressing thoughtful humor. Rav Blum illustrated being a true mentch, always welcoming guests to his Shabbos table.

I wanted to reach out to the community through the Queens Jewish Link this week for a few reasons that small businesses are incorporating. First and foremost, I want to offer my best wishes to everyone affected by COVID-19. To those working in the healthcare industry: Thank you so much for all you do. You are true modern-day heroes. The sacrifices we are all making right now are the best way to protect those we care about. This will eventually pass. In the meantime, please stay safe and keep doing your part to keep others safe as well.