08 Apr SPEAK YOUR VUES WITH THE VUES MASTER
CHILDREN COMING HOME FOR PESACH
Dear Vues Master,
There’s a well-known Pesach joke about a man who calls his
son that I’d like to share with your readers. It’s an oldie, one
that most people know, but I still love it. Here it goes:
“Son, I’m sorry to ruin your day, but your mom and I are get-
ting divorced.” “Divorced? You’ve been married for 45 years!
What are you talking about?” “Well, son, we just can’t stand
each other anymore. I need to go. Tell your sister. Bye.” And he
hangs up the phone.
The son calls his sister, tells her what’s going on, and they im-
mediately hatch a plan. They call their father back. “Dad, do not
do anything! We’re booking flights and will be over tomorrow
to discuss things. In the meantime, just hang tight.” The father
hangs up the phone, turns to his wife, and says, “Honey, the
kids are coming for Pesach!” PKL
Vues Master’s Note: A classic. Never gets old.
TARIFFS
Dear Vues Master,
The recent tariffs imposed during the Trump administration
have created a significant problem, and their impact will soon
be felt by all of us—especially with regard to imported goods.
These tariffs will cause prices to skyrocket, and industries like
kosher food will be hit hardest. The kosher food sector relies
heavily on imports from Israel, Argentina, and various Euro-
pean countries. With these new tariffs, the cost of importing
these products is rising, and consumers will inevitably face
much higher prices at the grocery store.
For families and communities that depend on these imported
kosher goods, this price hike is a serious issue. It will make it
more difficult for many to afford high-quality, trusted food—es-
pecially for those whose families have relied on these products
for generations. And the worst part? As this situation continues,
even more price increases are expected, extending beyond spe-
cialty foods to everyday grocery items.
This isn’t just a minor inconvenience—it’s a major financial
burden for countless households. Rising costs will force fami-
lies to make difficult decisions, possibly sacrificing quality or
quantity just to make ends meet. This is a crisis, and it’s time
for everyone to recognize the real toll it’s taking on people’s
lives. HR
Vues Master’s Note: But when Biden raises energy prices in the
name of the environment, you’re okay with it!
TARIFFS
Dear Vues Master,
Since Donald Trump became president, many Orthodox Jewish
communities in the United States have been among his most
fervent supporters. They praised him for his strong stance on
Israel, his commitment to religious freedoms, and his sup-
port for policies that resonated with traditional values and the
fight against anti-Semitism, particularly on college campuses.
Trump’s administration’s policies on Iran and the Middle East
solidified his popularity within these circles.
However, in the wake of recent economic decisions—particu-
larly his controversial approach to tariffs—there has been a no-
ticeable shift in sentiment among some members of the Ortho-
dox Jewish community. Once unwavering in their admiration,
many are now questioning Trump’s leadership, especially when
it comes to handling the nation’s economy.
For many Orthodox Jews who once viewed Trump as a cham-
pion of their values and interests, the recent tariffs have begun
to erode their faith in his ability to manage the economy effec-
tively. While foreign policy and issues related to Israel continue
to be sources of praise, the economic fallout from the tariff poli-
cies has led some to reconsider their support.
Several members of the Orthodox Jewish community have
openly criticized Trump’s economic approach, with some even
calling him “crazy” for the way he is handling trade and tariffs.
These voices, once rare, are now becoming more prominent
as the economic repercussions of these policies start to take a
toll. The rhetoric surrounding the tariffs has also become more
heated, with Trump defending his decisions by claiming they
are necessary for national security and to level the playing field
with countries like China. However, this has done little to reas-
sure those feeling the direct financial consequences.
Moreover, many in the community are frustrated by the broader
instability caused by trade wars and the uncertainty they bring.
The volatility in global markets and the risk of an economic
downturn have made it harder for Orthodox Jews to ignore the
negative impact on their businesses and livelihoods. LW
Vues Master’s Note: A Yiddish phrase comes to mind: “A cho-
chem never shows something halfway, and a fool, for sure,
never does.” Let’s see where this takes us. Time will tell.
THANK YOU FLATBUSH COMMUNITY FUND
Dear Vues Master
I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the Flatbush
Community Fund for their incredible generosity during this
challenging time. This year has been particularly difficult for
my family. My husband, who is both out of work and struggling
with health issues, has made it impossible for us to make ends
meet. As the Yom Tov of Pesach approached, we found our-
selves unable to afford the necessary food and supplies.
Thanks to the support of the Flatbush Commu-
nity Fund, our family was able to prepare for
Yom Tov without the stress of financial hardship.
The funds they provided ensured that we would
have enough food, matzos, wine, and everything
needed to make the holiday a special and mean-
ingful time. Their kindness has not only helped
provide for us but has also given us the emotional
strength to move forward.
In a year full of challenges, the Flatbush Com-
munity Fund has truly been a beacon of hope for
our family. We are incredibly grateful for their
support and for making sure we could celebrate
Pesach with joy, dignity, and faith. Thank you,
Flatbush Community Fund, for making this Yom
Tov brighter and more hopeful for us. ES
Vues Master’s Note: Unfortunately, there are a
lot of people in our neighborhood who need fi-
nancial help, and the Flatbush Community Fund
does a great job of providing assistance.
CHOMETZ CLEANING TIPS
Dear Vues Master,
Open a new file on your PC.
Name it “Chometz.”
Send it to the Recycle Bin.
Empty the Recycle Bin.
Your PC will ask, “Are you sure you want to de-
lete Chometz permanently?”
Calmly reply, “Yes,” and press the mouse button
firmly.
Feel better?
It works every time!
Vues Master’s Note: If only it were that easy!
GRATITUDE TO WIVES THAT MAKE
YOM TOV POSSIBLE
Dear Vues Master,
As Pesach approaches, we should all take a
moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to
the incredible wives who work tirelessly in the
weeks leading up to Yom Tov. The preparation
for Pesach is no small task—deep cleaning the
house, preparing meals, organizing seders, and
ensuring every detail is perfect for Yom Tov.
The work involved is endless. These women of-
ten juggle family commitments, work responsi-
bilities, and the stress of making sure everything
runs smoothly, all while maintaining a positive
spirit. Their dedication ensures that Yom Tov
is celebrated with joy and meaning, creating a
warm, welcoming atmosphere for everyone who
gathers. Their hard work is a true reflection of
love and devotion, and for that, we are deeply
grateful.
To all the wives who make Pesach possible,
thank you for your immense effort, love, and
care. Your contributions are invaluable and ap-
preciated beyond words.
Vues Master’s Note: That’s why I always get my
wife a gift for Yom Tov. I just want to show my
appreciation.
TURNOVER
Dear Vues Master,
Two men in a small town appointed themselves
as tzaddikim, each with his own “chasidim”, who
would constantly argue and fight with each other.
Seeing this, a wise person remarked: “As the To-
rah tells us, Avraham Avinu asked the Master of
the World to spare Sodom, saying, ‘Perhaps there
are fifty righteous people in the city.’ This is sur-
prising because one can legitimately ask, ‘Isn’t
it a kal vachomer (logical deduction) that when
there are only two righteous people in a city, they
will be the source of disputes, then if there are
fifty, how much more so?’ From this, we see that
what Avraham Avinu was asking the Master of
the World was, ‘Why do You need to send an-
gels to destroy Sodom? If there are fifty righteous
people, it is guaranteed that they will cause the
city to change its ways.’” -DR
Vues Master’s Note: Sounds pretty topsy-turvy
to me!
LIARS
Dear Vues Master,
It’s baffling and infuriating to see ten elected
officials, including several women, who once
demanded Andrew Cuomo’s resignation over
harassment allegations, now endorsing his po-
litical comeback. Their flip-flop undermines the
entire purpose of holding powerful individuals
accountable. The hypocrisy is glaring—these
lawmakers, who once called for justice, now ap-
pear willing to overlook serious misconduct for
political gain. This reversal sends a dangerous
message, especially to survivors of harassment,
that power and ambition can erase the need for
accountability. By supporting Cuomo, they are
failing to uphold the values of the Me Too move-
ment and diminishing the progress made in the
fight against workplace harassment. It’s a slap in
the face to everyone who believes in a fair and
just system, where those in power cannot escape
scrutiny, regardless of their status. Shame on
them for betraying the very principles they once
claimed to defend. -LP
Vues Master’s Note: Just remember Cuomo
killed all the old residents in nursing homes and
was busy calling the Jews “in the red zone!”
REMEMBERING OUR SOLDIERS
Dear Vues Master,
Shortly after Major Dr. Moshe Leiter was killed
in battle in Gaza in November 2023, I had the
privilege to sit with his father Yechiel, who
was since appointed Israel’s Ambassador to
the United States. He noted how we tend to
bandy about the term “mesirut nefesh” (self-
sacrifice), using it anytime someone extends
themselves a bit, whether traveling a long dis-
tance to a friend’s wedding, changing a strang-
er’s tire, or staying after an event to clean up.
Moshe, may his memory be for a blessing, had
chosen to literally give his life for and to the
Jewish people. He and all his fellow soldiers
represent the true meaning of mesirut nefesh,
and that term should be reserved for them.
He is right.
The Akeidat Yitzchak (the Binding of Isaac)
is the original Torah story of mesirut nefesh.
While Isaac survived the experience, our Sages
taught us that his readiness to give his life always
remains in the forefront of Hashem’s (God’s)
awareness, as it says, afro shel Yitzchak tzavur
umunach lefanav (the ashes of Isaac are gathered
and placed before God), and we, as Isaac’s de-
scendants, call upon Hashem to remember it as
a merit for us every Rosh Hashanah. Isaac’s un-
conditional commitment to give his life for God
is remembered and enduring.
This should guide us to do the same for Moshe
and his fellow soldiers. Their readiness to sac-
rifice everything for their people is astounding
not only to us; as Rav Chaim Shmulevitz noted
based on Bava Batra 10b, it entitles them—like
Isaac—to an exclusive and exalted place before
God in the World to Come. We Americans, who
have not fought, who do not regularly say good-
bye to our families wondering if it will be the last
time, must remember with humility, gratitude,
and admiration the hundreds of thousands of sol-
diers and their families who have been doing so
repeatedly for 18 months. They have been doing
this for us, for Klal Yisrael (the Jewish people).
We always owe them recognition and gratitude,
but especially during this season. The mitzvah
(commandment) of remembering the Exodus
from Egypt goes beyond recollection of events
past and requires us to bring that past to life with-
in ourselves and our present experience, viewing
ourselves in each generation as if we are leaving
Egypt. We are charged with transcending our-
selves to make the memories personal. Beyond
Passover itself, the Torah repeatedly urges us to
use our formative experience of slavery and exile
in Egypt to develop a deeper sensitivity towards
the plight of others suffering similar challenges,
and our mandate for charity is et ha’ani imach (to
put ourselves in their shoes). Once again, we are
charged with transcending ourselves to make the
experiences of others personal. If this is true for
the needy to whom we owe nothing, how much
more so for those who have sacrificed everything
for us?
The Midrash (Vayikra Rabba 2:11) notes that ev-
ery korban (sacrifice) offering recalls the Akei-
da, the offering that defined the holiness of the
Temple, the primary place of our future offerings.
Vayikra begins with Adam ki yakriv mikem ko-
rban (when a person offers a sacrifice from you,
from the animals, from the sheep and from the
cattle, you shall offer your sacrifice). Rabbeinu
Bachye (Vayikra 1:2) reads this verse as imply-
ing that the person’s desire was to offer himself
to God, but the Torah enjoins him to preserve
his life and instead sacrifice an animal. When
we read these ideas each year, they are abstract
concepts, food for the learner’s and worshipper’s
imaginations. When we read them now, we can
and should think of the soldiers and their families
stepping up every day to that implied meaning of
Adam ki yakriv mikem korban.
As Yitzchok is constantly remembered by Hash-
em, we must always remember with admiration
and gratitude those who have and continue to
give of themselves for Klal Yisrael.
The Daf Yomi will begin studying Makkos this
Thursday, April 10, the day of the Fast of the
Firstborn, and conclude three weeks later on May
2, 4 Iyar, the day usually observed as Memorial
Day for Fallen Soldiers. I plan to dedicate my
own Daf Yomi shiur (Torah study session) and
personal learning during this period to the sol-
diers of the IDF (Israel Defense Forces) killed in
battle. I hope you will consider doing the same
for your Torah learning, whatever you choose to
study.
Sign up now to get matched with a fallen soldier
and learn Meseches Makkos in their memory.
Rabbi Moshe Hauer Executive Vice President of
The Orthodox Union
Vues Master’s Note: Thanks!
RELAX
Dear Vues Master,
Have a cigarette and relax.
This coming second Seder night, after you are
done with the Kiddush and Havdalah, you should
smoke a cigarette to calm down. After the ciga-
rette, proceed with the Seder. (Yalkut Meiam
Loaz)
The Magen Avraham is unsure if smoking re-
quires a bracha.
The Shu”t Ktav Sofer
(O.C. 24) writes that
Rabbi Mordechai
Benet, zt”l, made a
Shehakol bracha before
smoking, with the in-
tention of including the
smoke in the blessing.
The Shulchan Aruch (R.
Yitzhak Kamarna, zt”l)
writes: “We don’t make
a bracha on smoking be-
cause in the times of the
Talmud, there was no
such thing as smoking.
We can’t create a bracha
on our own.”
However, the Ba’al
Shem Tov made a bracha before smoking because the proper
blessing for smoking was given to him by Eliyahu HaNavi
and his teacher Achia HaShiloni. Since then, the proper bra-
cha has been forgotten, and it is now unknown to us.
The above discussion is about the first bracha.
The Acharon (final) blessing is not made by the smoker, but
by their relatives. The bracha is Baruch Dayan HaEmet. MF
Vues Master’s Note: Strange!
NEW TREND
Dear Vues Master,
In recent years, a new trend has emerged where couples send
out “surprise” engagement invitations before the proposal
even happens. Guests are often asked to stay quiet and keep
the moment a secret until the actual celebration. While this
may seem like a fun twist, I really don’t like it.
Traditionally, a l’chaim was about the family and a few close
friends. But why are couples sending out invitations before
they’re officially engaged? What happens if the potential
groom or bride says no, or if the parents need more time to
work things out? This new trend complicates what should be
a simple and personal moment, adding unnecessary pressure
and uncertainty. LF
Vues Master’s Note: You don’t think these invites have the
parents’ blessing?
PRESSURE
Dear Vues Master,
Chol HaMoed offers a unique opportunity for families to
take trips and enjoy quality time together. However, this
time of year also comes with its own set of pressures. One of
the biggest challenges is managing the cost. From entrance
fees to transportation, meals, and accommodations, it can
quickly become an expensive endeavor. Many families feel
the financial strain, especially when trying to make the most
of every day.
The need to plan a new activity or destination for each day
of Chol HaMoed can also be exhausting. Unlike a simple
weekend getaway, each day requires fresh ideas to keep ev-
eryone entertained. Whether it’s a visit to a zoo, a hike, or an
amusement park, the planning never stops. The pressure to
find engaging, fun, and affordable options can leave families
feeling overwhelmed.
In addition, each activity must cater to various age groups,
with something for both children and adults. Balancing en-
tertainment, relaxation, and budget can quickly turn what
was meant to be a relaxing holiday into a logistical puzzle.
While Chol HaMoed trips can be incredibly rewarding, the
combination of costs and constant planning can make it feel
like more work than vacation. EP
Vues Master’s Note: At least you didn’t go to a hotel for
Pesach! Imagine that financial pressure!
HALACHOS
Dear Vues Master,
With Yom Tov upon us, it’s important to remember a few
overlooked details. One misconception is that people think
you can carry whatever you want. But that is not the case—it
is restricted to only specific Yom Tov needs. And by specific,
it means you can only carry the key you need, not a whole
ring of keys. Also, one may not carry something from one
place to another if that item is specifically for the next night.
For example, you shouldn’t carry food to someone’s house
if that food won’t be eaten until the next night or day. It can
only be carried once it’s dark. Another halacha that people
misinterpret is showering. You cannot just turn on the hot
water and do whatever you want. There are specific hal-
achot in regards to this, and all the same restrictions on hair
shampooing, squeezing, and hair brushing apply, just like on
Shabbat. If you’re not sure how to do it, don’t. All this info
is easy to find in the Artscroll Laws of Yom Tov. Wishing all
a good Chag. KLMY
Vues Master’s Note: Thanks for the heads-up.
BITACHON
Dear Vues Master,
There is a great story that Rav Chayim Tzvi Blau wrote
about Baron Rothschild. Baron Rothschild once made an of-
fer to a few Shadchanim, saying that whoever finds a good
Shidduch for his daughter would receive a great reward.
All the Shadchanim got to work, and eventually, a possible
match was found. Rothschild met with the father of the boy
and told him, “I am offering to buy a nice-sized apartment
for the couple, plus an additional apartment for rental in-
come, along with a monthly stipend of two thousand dollars,
which I will directly deposit into their account each month.”
He continued to add more and more things he would give
the couple, and just as he finished, he asked the boy’s father,
“And what will you offer?” The man responded, “I can of-
fer you my son!” Rothschild replied, “No, you must offer at
least ten thousand dollars.”
The father was taken aback by this request and exclaimed,
“Ten thousand dollars?! I have never seen that kind of mon-
ey in my life!” Baron Rothschild said, “This is all I am ask-
ing of you. I will give you a few days to figure it out.”
The next day, Baron Rothschild received a knock at his door
and was surprised to see the boy’s father standing there.
Rothschild welcomed him in and asked how everything was
going. The man explained, “I have a son who is a very fine
boy, and I need ten thousand dollars in order to marry him
off. Would you please be able to help me?”
One might think this was an act of tremendous Chutzpah,
but Baron Rothschild appreciated the sincerity of the man
and, with a full heart, happily gave him the money!
Rav Blau teaches that this story can serve as a Mashal (par-
able) for one’s Bitachon (trust in Hashem). Hashem gives us
everything—our homes, the money to buy things, and life it-
self! Hashem gives far more than Rothschild ever could, and
much more than we can ever imagine! Hashem asks, “Just
place your trust in Me. Have Bitachon, and I will shower you
with Brachah (blessing),” as the Pasuk in Tehillim (32:10)
says: HaBo’tei’ach BaHashem, Chesed Yisovivenu—“The
one who trusts in Hashem will be surrounded by kindness.”
However, it’s even more than that. We can even turn to
Hashem and ask Him to help us strengthen our Bitachon,
and Hashem, Who gives us everything, will help us build
trust in Him as well! TUT
Vues Master’s Note: Make sure you say Ani Maamin every
day.