* Translation by Yehoshua Siskin
A week before Purim, Esti Sheinfeld YItzhaki sent me the following poignant message:
“Shalom Sivan,
You once wrote about “Misloach Manot,” a Mishloach Manot that asks forgiveness and seeks reconciliation. (Misloach incorporates “lisloach,” meaning “to forgive.”) You mentioned individuals who sent Mishloach Manot not only to neighbors and friends but to people with whom they had experienced a serious rift.
So I did exactly that. On Purim morning, after reading the Megillah, I traveled with my husband to another city with my MIsloach Manot. With a trembling heart, I left my basket outside the door of the recipient’s apartment. Immediately, I felt tremendous relief.
The previous evening I had tearfully written to this dear former friend. I had poured my heart out and it had truly felt like Yom Kippur. I wrote in great detail about everything I had learned from her in my life and asked forgiveness from the depth of my heart — forgiveness from her and from God for having hurt her. I ended the letter with warm words of affection and many blessings.
Three tense days passed and then I received a short, but beautiful WhatsApp message. At that moment I knew there was great joy in heaven and that angels were dancing. We did not return to being close friends but my overall mood improved and I was blessed with great abundance in many areas of my life.
Next week Purim will arrive. If there is someone in your life with whom you have had a falling out, a mitzvah is waiting for you. I entreat you to be the one who takes the first step. Prepare a lavish “Misloach Manot” with a heartfelt letter.
May we all experience a truly joyful Purim.”
