Chassidim are held to a higher standard, as they should be. Hence, their deeds and behavior are examined through a magnifying glass. Notwithstanding the fallout from the negative publicity garnered by the shameful acts of some unscrupulous individuals, we should know better than to judge a whole people because of the actions of a few.
As Jews, we are not lacking for enemies needing little excuse to trash and bash us. But it is most unsettling when our own choose to have their voices heard rather than to check out the facts – or, better yet, keep mum.
Thank you for addressing this injustice. Shedding light on the truth will hopefully counter the damaging effects of tale-bearing and evil speech … and ameliorate the tzar of the tragic victim’s neshama.