No Break from Torah
The word vacation did not exist in the home of Moreinu’s parents in Mogador, Morocco. People would often frequent that resort town for relaxation. But Rabbi David’s father, the holy Rabbi, Moshe Aharon Pinto, zy”a, never spoke about going on vacation. Only after thirty years, when the children were grown, did the concept of vacation enter their lexicon.
At the end of one year, which had proven extremely stressful to Moreinu on account of his numerous projects involving the public, he was very exhausted. His friends and relatives recommended a break from his holy work. A vacation in Montreal was planned for Moreinu and his family.
- On the day of the Bar Mitzvah, with the entire family
Moreinu flew to Montreal for a vacation, but Hashem had other plans for him. Even there, he continued in his holy mission of encouraging others in their Avodat Hashem. Although the Rav was meant to relax and recharge his batteries, the burden of public duty was waiting to be worn. As soon as the Jewish community in Montreal heard about his coming, they invited him to speak and inspire the public. The pre-arranged rest of three weeks morphed into three weeks crowded with speaking engagements, one-on-one audiences, and lectures throughout Canada.
Hashem protects the steps of His devout ones. During his visit in Montreal, Moreinu himself was greatly inspired. He felt energized by witnessing how his speeches had influenced the community so positively. Many Jews undertook to observe Shabbat and wear tzitzit, and women accepted upon themselves taharat hamishpachah. A huge wave of teshuvah washed over the community.
Many residents of Montreal hail from Morocco. They still remember the tzaddik, Rabbi Chaim Pinto, zy”a, Moreinu’s grandfather. They were able to retell stories of his greatness, which helped reinforce the atmosphere of faith in Montreal.
After Moreinu returned to his home and his daily obligations, he had the following afterthought to relate: Never had he experienced such relaxation in his entire life. This was true relaxation: relaxation of the spirit. When a person feels his spirit connecting to the Ribbono shel Olam, it is the greatest possible pleasure for both body and soul.
