Mesorah High School for Girls had a special guest Friday, August 30: Rabbi Labish Becker, Executive Director of Agudath Israel of America, who is in Dallas for an Agudah Shabbaton, graced the campus. His words resonated deeply with the students.
Everything Is Watched
Rabbi Becker began by emphasizing a profound truth: הכל צפוי—everything is watched. Our actions, whether grand or seemingly insignificant, are observed by others. It’s a concept that transcends physical visibility; even the unseen eyes of Heaven take note. This awareness carries immense responsibility but also incredible potential.
The Yerushalmi Jew and the Dallas Shul
To illustrate this point, Rabbi Becker shared a captivating story—one that connects Dallas, Texas, to the ancient stones of the Western Wall in Jerusalem. It involves Rabbi Aryeh Rodin, whose legacy extends beyond our community.
His act of prayer performed thousands of miles away, led to the construction of a shul in Dallas—a place he had never even heard of.”
The tale unfolds like this: An irreligious Jew encounters Rabbi Rodin. Perhaps he expected a typical interaction, but what he witnessed at the Kosel changed everything. A Yerushalmi Jew—a stranger to Dallas—stood there, pouring out his heart in prayer. His kavana (intention) and hislahavus (fervor) were palpable. The irreligious man, moved by this scene, approached Rabbi Rodin and donated a substantial sum for his shul. Why? Because he saw the potential—the spiritual energy—emanating from that yerushalmi’s devotion.
Imagine the surprise awaiting that Yerushalmi in the heavenly court. His act of prayer performed thousands of miles away, led to the construction of a shul in Dallas—a place he had never even heard of. His unseen influence rippled across continents.
Seeking HaShem with Joy
R’ Becker then turned to a verse: “ישמח לב מבקשי ה׳”—“The heart rejoices in those who seek the Lord.” But why is “מבקשי” (those who seek) in plural form? R’ Becker explained that our impact extends beyond ourselves when we serve HaShem with joy and happiness. Our inner light radiates outward, touching everyone around us. We become catalysts for positive change.
Empowering the Girls
In closing, R’ Becker empowered the Mesorah girls. They hold within them the koach—the power—to transform themselves and, in doing so, change the world. Their smiles, their kindness, their devotion—all of it matters. Even when they think no one is watching, they are part of a cosmic symphony, harmonizing with the universe’s grand design. ■
Esti Abrams
Teacher, Mesorah High School for Girls
