At the core of the Aleph Institute’s mandate is a fundamental belief in second chances. We know that mistakes are an inevitable part of the human experience. But what happens when you give those who have erred a chance to make things right?
Dov* is a young man who struggled with low self-esteem. He fell in with the wrong crowd, got roped into a credit card scheme, and was soon arrested for fraud. Dov became extremely depressed. He couldn’t get out of bed. That’s when Aleph entered the picture.
Under Aleph’s mentorship, Dov made a complete turnaround—channeling his remorse into resolve. For the next five years as he awaited his sentencing, he truly hustled with his time; clocking in thousands of hours of community service, joining his local synagogue, earning a college degree, securing a new job, and paying back his restitution. Mrs. Faigy Kass, Aleph’s
Community Service Coordinator, was supremely instrumental in his rehabilitative efforts, being a source of encouragement and advice for him throughout his journey. He even met a wonderful Jewish girl and got married!
Given a second chance, Dov proved that a human being is so much more than their biggest mistake. But as his sentencing date loomed closer, Dov feared he would be sent to prison, halting all of his progress. His attorney affirmed that this was the most likely outcome, saying “You’re going to have to drink the poison.”
Earlier this month, Mrs. Kass traveled with Dov and his wife to the Ohel of the Lubavitcher Rebbe to pray for a miracle. Dov was heartened by the video playing at the entrance to the Ohel, in which the Rebbe referred to the idea of freedom granted in an unusual manner. The very next day, the state prosecutors called Dov’s attorney to say that they would not ask for any prison time—a true miracle!
The judge was highly impressed by Dov’s efforts and transformation, together with the comprehensive rehabilitative plan that Aleph put together for him. Without a doubt, the Rebbe was blessing Dov directly, and these blessings were manifested through Aleph’s support.
This week is Pesach Sheini—the “Second Passover” for those who failed to bring the Pesach offering on its designated time. Pesach Sheini reminds us that no matter our mistakes, missed opportunities, or failures—it is never too late to make amends.
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Although it is often told as a cliche, the opportunity we are given to have a second chance at things should not be taken lightly. Second chances are often what results in opportunity such as shidduchim, jobs, housing, and more.
A friend of mine just got engaged after revisiting a shidduch he had originally said no to. Second chances can make all the difference at times!
great job
A person doesn’t “fall in” with the wrong crowd or “get roped in” to do credit card scams. As baalei bechira we own what we CHOSE to do, like this young man who took responsibility and turned his life around. I believe the Rebbe once answered similarly to a man who said he “found himself” in a certain place.
There is a family that said no to a shidduch… A friend ended up convincing the mother to at least give it a try… And bH they got engaged! But the story gets better, then their sibling also ended up getting married and it’s all because of the first marriage that the families got to know each other!
I know someone who went out with a girl, said no after a few dates. A few months later someone suggested it again and BH he decided to give it another try because they’re happily married!