Rabbi Nachman teaches,
I still want and long for my friend to be a pure Jew and a Tzaddik even if I myself feel unable to achieve the same. Even when I find myself unable to serve G-d, I am happy when another Jew serves Him.
I want, long and yearn for all Jews to be pure, true Tzaddikim. Perhaps I feel unworthy in myself, but still, I am happy when my dear friends and associates and all other Jews are true Tzaddikim. Our greatest expression of love and kindness to our friends and all other Jews is to want them to attain their true purpose as ordained by G-d’s good will, because this is the true good for Israel .
People can easily cease serving G-d, especially if they become trapped in some evil craving or sin. Many such people hate those who are still trying to serve G-d and want to see them give up . They discourage and disparage them, telling them that they too will give up .
There are numerous people who were once highly devoted but have since lapsed in various ways. On the other hand, many of today’s younger generation have a great longing for G-d and have started praying with earnest intensity and studying zealously. When those fallen Chassidim see these young people, they ridicule and abuse them. They do everything they can to discourage them, telling them that their service is not genuine. All this is out of jealousy – because they themselves have fallen and want everyone else to be like them.
However, the truth is that one should want the opposite. Even when a person feels unable to serve G-d, he should be happy when others are making an effort.
Sichot Haran #119
With permission taken over from: Daily Dose Of Rabbi Nachman
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