A GOLDEN MOMENT

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A GOLDEN MOMENT

Harav Y. Reuven Rubin Shlita

Chasunahs come with their own unique kaleidoscope of feelings. We have just finished the week of sheva brochos for the newly minted Esty Rottenberg my oldest great grandchild. When I was a child very few of us had grandparents, most of my Chaverim were the children of survivors. A great grandfather was something spoken of only in story books, yet, I have been blessed to carry this title with humility and pride.  Zaidy Rubin is one of greatest of acknowledgements my years have bestowed upon me, and I kvel in the children who look up to me with love.  Emotions have a tendency to sweep in and out of one’s mind, especially at moments that are the fruit of many years of effort and care. As a Rov, I have participated in my fair share of weddings, no two are alike, because each is made up by unique personalities.  As we were called to the badekin, all these feelings swam to the fore. My little Esty was being covered by a family heirloom that has covered every Kallah in the family since it was first worn by my Rebbetzin A”H. Seeing its delicate design being draped over this new link to our family had me sobbing. As I bent over to bless her the tears streamed down my face, Chaiky was there with all the neshomahs of her ancestors, the prayers rained forth, it was hard for me to let go and permit the others to step up. Sweet Esty, you are taking up a new life wearing the veil hand made for your great grandmother, many tears have washed its threads, yet it brings with it the blessings of so many. Our family has experienced some tragedy these last few months. The Rebbetzins sister, Chavy Feiga Ehrenriech passed away, and then last week her brother, Reb Meilech Dov Grodzinsky was nifter after a short illness. All those cousins, unable to personally participate left a void, we are a small family and each member is part of a caring whole. So, the sobbing ended with cries for grace and Chein and I stumbled away to the side.

The chuppah was so lovely, parents kvelling, handkerchiefs held to weeping eyes, Malochim must have accompanied the brochos, as the feeling of kedushah wrapped around the whole room.

I know, all of us have seen the very same scene take place untold times. I bring nothing new to the vast ocean of knowledge when it comes to weddings, I just feel it incumbent for me to share my thanks to Hakodesh Boruch Hu for giving me the zechus to live to see this day.

Life has so many bumps in the road, yet, when we are gifted such moments of light, all the tears are worth it. I write these words just as the wondrous week of celebrations draws to a close. The young couple have just arrived for supper; their faces are alight with happiness. Thank You Hashem, thank You for this shimmering gift of a glorious tomorrow.

I have been writing this column for thirty years; it is a point of stability in what can be a very hectic life. The Rabbi’s Journal is an apt name for this is what it is. I would be remiss if I didn’t share this simcha with you my loyal readers. This is a short article, because I am still trying to absorb the wonder of this new chapter in my life. I will admit that I have had to stop several times, shake off the ache of the Rebbetzin’s not being there with me, and then start again. May her neshoma see this true nachas, this in itself will lend me a balm of healing. I share my brochos to all of you, may we all see true Yiddish nachas from our loved ones and be blessed to share them with the Moshiach soon, Amen.