Letters for Life: Guidance for Emotional Wellness from the Lubavitcher Rebbe by Levi Y. Shmotkin; Ezra Press (c) 2024 ; $17.95
By Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D.
EL CAJON, California — When I was asked to write a review of this transformative masterpiece that illuminates the profound wisdom of the Lubavitcher Rebbe on emotional wellness, I was quite honestly taken aback. I’m going to review a book on what the esteemed Lubavitcher Rebbe teaches us about emotional wellness? Even with nearly 50 years of caring for the emotional wellbeing of so many, how could I possibly comment on this treasure trove of practical advice?
Reading this book has been mind and heart opening, offering a beacon of hope, filled with concrete doable suggestions and demonstrating their application through real-life, easily relatable examples. As I’ve seen in my own practice over the many years, I’ve turned more and more to the healing power of Torah study and this leaps off the pages of this essential read, as we see the need for emotional wellness guidance and education more than ever.
The author (page 258) notes, “Drawing on the verse, “G-d’s commands are just; they cause the heart to rejoice (Psalms 19:9), the Rebbe would emphasize how the study of Torah can greatly rejuvenate a person’s spirit.
We learn from the Talmud Sanhedrin 100b, “Do not allow worry into your heart, for worry has killed mighty men.” And the author quotes the 19th century Chasidic song, “Why worry what will be tomorrow as long as the bartender is willing to serve us on credit.” Each chapter ends with “takeaways,” such as “take a step back and look at the broader picture of your life – all those tremendous treasures and blessings hid in plain sight.
They are far more important and enduring than what’s temporarily lacking. They deserve so much more of your attention. Reflect on the higher calling to “serve G-d with joy. Don’t wallow…” Wow! What insight for the current sandpapering so many feel in daily life.
We are taught to “remember that human beings are dynamic, so it is entirely natural for your mood to fluctuate. By the same token, just as your sunnier mood might disappear for a time, it is certain to return…utilize the appearance of your somber self for deeper reflection, more introspective prayer, and more immersive study. When approached this way, your mood change is hardly a system malfunction; it is a valuable and constructive opportunity.”
The book’s sections such as “Essentials for a Healthy Life,” provides the reader with a comprehensive roadmap to emotional resilience. With Shmotkin’s story-telling skills, the anecdotes he brings blend wisdom and narrative so beautifully and are an invaluable and moving resource upon which to enhance one’s mental well-being. Curating the Rebbe’s correspondence as the author has masterfully done, is a genuine treasure trove for the reader seeking spiritual and practical advice for navigating life’s challenges.
This is my newest highly recommended essential book to clients seeking a deeper understanding of emotional wellness through the lens of our timeless Jewish wisdom. The colorful distillation of the profound insights of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson into do-able, accessible, practical and life-changing guidance, is a valuable part of any therapy for mental strength
The 338 pages stand as a testament to the enduring power of compassion, faith, and human resilience. This is not just a book to read once and put away; it’s a life companion to return to again and again, each time discovering new depths of wisdom and comfort. This is more than a psychology book. This is a companion for the soul, that has the power to change perspectives, heal hearts, and ignite the reader’s personal transformation.
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Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D., prepares a weekly D’var Torah for Young Israel of San Diego, where he and his family are members. They are also active members of Congregation Adat Yeshurun.