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Rabbi Yehuda {Leonard} Blank MS, BCC
Vice President of Professional Development and External Affairs
Chair of the Chaplaincy Commission
Rabbinical Alliance of America/Igud HaRabbonim
917-446-2126  rablenblank@gmail.com,
<> March 5, 2026, 16, Adar, 5786<>
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The countdown has begun.
Twenty-seven days until Erev Pesach.

What does the countdown mean? What might some causes of stress, anxiousness or anxiety be related to this countdown? Many issues can and do pop up such as -the cost of Passover products including matzah, cleaning the apartment or house, delegating responsibilities to family members, food preparations and all sorts of shailos, questions that need to be asked or clarified. For those who are elderly or physically challenged, getting one’s apartment or house ready for Passsover, shopping and other related preparations can be awesome challenges. The amount of gemachs, funds and organizations helping with the many costs such as food and other necessities seem to be increasing each year. Therefore, sometimes there is not enough financial support to cover what a person or family might need. 

For those who are bedbound, physically challenged, the elderly and those who live alone preparing for Passover can go beyond the abilities of such individuals. The emotional, physical and spiritual challenges can be a tremendous strain on such individuals and families.  It truly would be a tremendous chesed to offer assistance whether it be financial, shopping or any preparations for Passover. There are many who just don’t have the energy or strength to make their kitchens Pesadik. If the intent is to invite someone for any of the Sedarim or Yom Tov meals, it would be meaningful to let that person know in advance.   

Rabbis, Rebbetzins and Chaplains just by listening to the burdens and challenges of a person can offer relief. It is important to listen and even observe body language, especially when a person shares his or her difficulties no matter how insignificant it might seem to be. A guidance counselor, therapist or other mental health professional would be able to pick up the nuances of what a person is saying. It is not unusual for a person undergoing difficulties to seek help and might first share his or her concerns with the rabbi, rebbetzin or chaplain. Chaplains do have very special training and are astute to know when to refer someone to a professional. I’ve mentioned this previously that a person who says he/she is feeling depressed does not mean that person is clinically depressed. Only a mental health professional can determine if someone is clinically depressed. It truly is important to be supportive and to offer encouragement whatever hope is possible. Life does have its ups and downs, but with hope and positive feelings a person can overcome those challenges that he or she might experience in the pre-holiday weeks and during the holiday. 

It is always important to convey the essence of emunah/faith and bitachon/trust in H.

From: The Gentle Weapon Prayers for Everyday and
Not-So-Everyday Moments
Timeless Wisdom from the Teachings of the Hasidic Master
Rebbe Nachman of Breslov

“In Praise”
“My G,
I work and I strive,
never knowing
if I will succeed.
You and only You
can give hope to my dreams.
With Your help
I am spared
wasted efforts.
With Your blessing,
all the hardship I endure
can bear fruit.
You and only You
are the key to success
in all that I do.”

Sincerely. Rabbi Yehuda Blank