The First Step

Behaalosecha

"Bill" was never exposed to Yiddishkeit, and had all sorts of doubts.
Many of which, he could do without.

'Which book do I turn to? Where do I go?'
He was overwhelmed, and didn't know.

He was frightened by the thought of a lifestyle, strange and new.
All the time, not knowing where to turn what to do.

"Shimi" his co-worker, on the other hand, was exposed to Yiddishkeit since he was small.
A seder in spring, a succah in fall.

'I'd like to be mikareiv Bill, but with what technique?
'Who can advise me? With whom do I speak?'

Bill and Shimi both don't know, which avenues to take.
But for both of them to do nothing, would be a big mistake.

So Shimi takes his first step:
He calls a famous kiruv organization for advice.
"Be patient. Approach with love and respect.
"If you don't know what an answer is, that is o.k.
.
"Because if you need help answering a question Bill asks, we will instruct you what to say."

Bill takes his first step by asking Shimon a question:
"Shimi...? Shimon...? I had a question about Judaism could you clarify?
"I know you wear-I guess you call it a yarmulka-I just never knew why."

Through the weeks Shimi answers many many questions, as much as he is able.
Then proceeds to invite Bill, to his Shabbos table.
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Like Moshe Rabbeinu by the Yam Suf, and in this week's parsha by the Menora made of gold.
Moshe took the "first step", then recieved Divine assistance we are told.

To all those who proceed with ambitious mitzva projects, the advice is clear.
Take that first step. And the main thing is not to fear!