Smoke Signals
My uncle, the tzaddik, Rabbi Meir Pinto, a brother of my father, zy”a, was very ill in his old age. He spent his last days in the hospital. I had the privilege of attending him there. One day, my uncle asked me to bring him a cigarette. I hurried to do his bidding. Since I was seeking a marriage partner, I asked for a blessing that I find my intended soon. Rabbi Meir blessed me that I marry within the year.
- My uncle, the Tzaddik, Rabbi Meir Pinto, zy”a
- His tombstone
“According to the Jewish calendar or the secular one?” I queried. But the tzaddik did not respond. I understood that he had meant the secular year, but he did not want to mention secular calendar dates so close to his demise.
His blessing was actualized, as he had predicted. That very year, I merited marrying my wife, may she live long. Together, we have established a fine Jewish home.
