When we awoke today, we headed back to the St. Regis to meet our police escort. We were dining at Capital Hill with over 100 Rabbi's and other Jewish leaders from all over the world. Once there, we met with numerous senators, house represenatives, and ambassadors from all over who addressed us about Judaism, politics, Israel, government, and of coarse, leadership. It was such an honor for all of these individuals to take time out of their extremely busy schedule to speak with us. Names like Bonner and Joe Liberman were just two of the names in attendance.
Once breakfast was finished, but not before we took pictures in front of the capital, we headed over to hear a pannel of Rabbis speak. The pannel consisted of published authors and PHD's in multiple subjects. I was quite impressed.
During lunch we got to hear from more ambassadors and Rabbis from all over the globe. Each had their own inspiration message to share, and each one was unique and thought-provoking.
When we finished eating, we made our way back to the St. Regis to meet with some very important people. Mr and Mrs. Mayberg met with us. They are the ones who funded us being here, and it was wonderful to meet them both. As they spoke of their own struggles with Judaism and how they became religious, I heard my own voice inside, and could relate. Also, the executive director of AIPAC met with us. He discussed leadership in regards to the defense and pride of Israel.
The speaker I was most excited for though was Elie Wiesel. I had read his book "Night" in tenth and eleventh grade, and even done various projects and presentations on certain aspects of it. Though old and frail, he was truely amench. Through all his hardships, obstacles, and pure torture, he was able to not only survive, but also tell his tale. He is the most beautiful of men with a soul that is optimistic, hopeful, and quite spiritual. It was truely a proud moment when I was able to ask him a question about a certain passage in his book. One thing he said was, "Never try to please anyone. Just be yourself."
After pictures, and a quick scene change, we were headed to our Gala Banquet Dinner Event. Once again, we were addressed by very important people, including Elie Wiesel again, and even some students who discussed their experiences with Chabad.
It is truely inspirational to think that one man, the Lubavitcher Rebbe Menachem Mendel Shneerson, could have such a large impact. Not only were these words, this was a clear and present action. We were there because of him. He always taught that the best way to fight darkness is with light. Each and every day Chabad house, all over the world, follows this message, and spreads this message, and so he lives on. His inspiration is only continuing to blossom and grow, and with each passing day a new man, woman, or child learns of his goodness that lives on today in the Mitzvot of the Shluchim and their congregations.
We must all strive to better ourselves every day. Each and every one of us is capable of making a difference. The Rebbe believed that each act could tip the scale of goodness. Any one kind deed, or mitzvot, could bring Moshiach. What have you done today? Are you tipping the scale in the best direction? Do a mitzvah today... in memory of this great man... Honor this memory with a mitzvah. Just do it. It could just tip the scale.
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