Life is a test – as a matter of fact, that is the title of one of my books. Our journeys are filled with turbulence. There are ups and downs and darkness and joy. But even in the best of times the skies can quickly darken with menacing clouds and terrifying storms can take over our lives. And yet our faith remains unshaken.
The legacy of our forefathers and the Covenant of Sinai are forever emblazoned on our hearts and souls. We understand it is our duty, our responsibility, to uphold that covenant, to cling to it and hold it dear. We do so because we believe and are committed to our G-d and expect no reward or accolades for our loyalty. Even as citizens of a country know it is their obligation to pay their taxes without fanfare or reward, so we realize that living in G-d’s world is a privilege, and we too must pay our taxes through our adherence to Torah and mitzvos.
This does not mean we cannot reverse our fate through the power of faith – but whether we succeed or not, we must pay our taxes. To be sure, prayer and mitzvos are our most potent weapons. We need only use them and “the help of G-d can come in the blink of an eye.”
Your bashert might just be waiting around the corner, and you can yet be blessed with children and grandchildren. I have witnessed such wonderful stories, even with women who were much older than you. So don’t lose faith. Rather, follow the guidelines of King David: “Place your trust and hope in G-d…. Strengthen your heart and continue to pray and pray some more” (Psalm 27).
Finally, may I suggest that you come to our Hineni Heritage Center, at 232 West End Avenue in Manhattan. I am there every Thursday evening and speak at 8:30. Who knows? Perhaps I will know someone for you, or perhaps our shidduch coordinator, Phyllis Blackman, will be able to help.
Be proactive! Don’t give up. Bear in mind that even after the most dense darkness, dawn comes. In the interim, please accept my berachas for a bayis ne’eman b’Yisrael – a genuine Jewish home and family life.