Dear Rabbi Lamm: Your weekend at Brandeis is still making waves. One of the positive results is the formation of a small group who will try to find whether they really want to learn from text, rather than to indulge in the usual “adult education” subjects about Judaism. These are people who are old-timers at Brandeis who heard many lectures. Until now, they have not felt the urge to really sit and learn. I have arranged with Rabbi Simcha Wasserman to learn with us at the first session. I hope it works, but if his method proves to be too rough (I have no reason to believe that it is), we will try something simpler. You referred to Rabbi Elchonon Wasserman’s Epoch of the Messiah and the fact that you did not have a copy. I am enclosing the latest edition in English, as well as the rare Jewish original. This is small return for the great pleasure you gave Allie and me. Work hard. Sincerely, Sidney Eisenshtat

Dear Rabbi Lamm: The news of your election was greeted in our shul with such enthusiasm, one would almost have thought that it was your brother’s achievement. Mazel tov! I hope your challenges increase and that you become the master of them all. Allie and I are delighted that an institution that in the minds of most people represents the seat of traditional Jewish education of ethics, Jewish wisdom and Yiddishekeit should actually choose a head who himself embodies these attributes. I know the years ahead cannot be one long unobstructed road to Gan Eden, but I do know the Almighty gave you the tools to keep on that road. The joy of knowing how great your contribution really is will give you strength and pleasure. With best wishes for your complete success, I am, Sincerely, Sidney Eisenshtat