Moshiach Prediction

During the 1960's and especially after the Six Day War in 1967, the Rebbe saw a huge opportunity in the rebellion and awakening of that time, and later lamented that it wasn't adequately seized to teach Jews about their heritage and incorporate Torah and mitzvos into their lives.

I believe we are on the brink of possibly an even greater opportunity than the 60's and it’s on us to be prepared for it.
Here’s why:

A few months ago, I wrote about a fascinating book called "The Power of Habit," which in my opinion is a must read.  In it, the author explains why people are more likely to change the brand of orange juice they drink after big life changes like moving, marriage, baby, divorce etc. than any other time. The reason is because people are creatures of habit and once a habit is created, it's impossible to undo (he explains the biology of it in the book, and how you can change the routine of a habit, but not undo the habit itself).  On the other hand, after a routine has been disrupted, it's a prime time to create new habits and routines.

The biggest opportunity for the retail world to capitalize on habit disruptions is after childbirth.  If they can get you to buy diapers in their store, there's a very good chance that you'll start buying almost everything in their store, because your habits have been disrupted.  This is why Target, Amazon and Walmart are constantly trying to outdo each other on diaper and newborn deals, because they all vie for the patronage of a newborn family. 

Almost six months ago, we were convinced that covid would soon be over, so we could go back to our routines.  We were wrong.  At this point, it's hard to even remember what normal is, let alone go back to it.  Our new reality has brought many positive things into our lives, like family time, reflection, and living in the moment.  It's also brought negative things, like increases in domestic violence, civil unrest, loneliness and feelings of isolation.

My prediction is that whenever things open up, people will not snap back into their old routines, hang out with the same friends, shop at the same stores or spend recreation time the same way. 

This thought is very scary as a rabbi.  Maybe the regular shul-goers will not choose to come back as they pick up new routines.  Maybe the kids who were involved in our youth programs won't come back. 

On the other hand, there are many more unaffiliated Jews than there are shul-goers.  All other routines like the beach, baseball clubs, work schedules, and school routines have also been disrupted. 

As a rabbi, it’s on me to prepare for this opportunity of a lifetime, even greater than the 60's opportunity.  As a “layman” reading this email, I urge you to also prepare.  We need to figure out a strategy to ensure that when the world opens up again, we can help people lead healthier and more wholesome lives and bring them back into the fold.  As the Rebbe said many times, increasing in Torah and mitzvos doesn’t just make us feel better.  It’s our very lifeline to G-d through which everything in our lives is channeled. 

Of course this doesn’t mean we should give up on the regulars of yesterday either.  On the contrary, even the most devout can increase their connection to Hashem, and can create new, even better habits than before!  However, we should keep on our guard, not take anyone or anything for granted, and prepare a plan for this messianic opportunity.

And, yes, this is what Moshiach is all about: to bring the Jews back to Torah and mitzvos, and bring peace and tranquility to the rest of the world.

Do you have any ideas for how we can prepare for this looming opportunity and make the most of it?  Please share them with me.