“It’s never too late. There’s always a second chance.”
This, according to Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn, the Frierdiker Rebbe, is the message of Pesach Sheini, the biblically ordained “Second Passover” for those who failed to bring the Passover offering on its designated time.
Pesach Sheini is an eternal reminder of the redemptive and transformative power of second chances. The Aleph Institute is dedicated to giving those who have been led astray an opportunity to return to the right path, like in the case of Jake.*
Jake’s mom was a drug dealer who went in and out of prison. His dad was nefarious in their small southern town for his drunken behavior. Jake responded to the chaos in his home by acting out in the streets and at school. He dropped out of high school and took on two jobs. One night, after a long day of work, 23-year-old Jake found a wallet at a gas station. He took a credit card from the wallet and swiped it for a $30 purchase.
Those $30 cost him a lot more.
Jake was facing a serious charge for identity theft. His mom (who Aleph assisted through her own personal ordeal), turned to Aleph for help. Aleph connected Jake to a local shliach and they quickly formed a bond.
“I never had any guidance in life,” he said. “My rabbi became the first father figure I ever had.” Through meaningful conversation, Torah study, and inner reflection, Jake developed true remorse for his mistakes. At Aleph’s suggestion, he began volunteering for community service every week.
At Jake’s trial, an Aleph representative described the metamorphosis Jake had undergone, advocating that the young man atoned for his mistake and simply needed continued mentorship as he embarked on adulthood. “When I heard the Aleph advocate describe what an amazing kid I am, I was blown away,” Jake said. “Nobody has ever believed in me before. Suddenly it hit me how much I am capable of.”
In the spirit of second chances, the judge sentenced Jake to community service instead of prison time and expunged the crime from his record. Thank G-d, Jake is thriving today and has become deeply connected to his Jewish roots.
In honor of Pesach Sheini, please consider partnering with Aleph to help us provide second chances for young adults like Jake. Click here to make a donation.
*Name changed to protect confidentiality
