Aseres B'Teves

Today, Jews all over the world observed the 2,432 anniversary of the siege of Jerusalem by the Babylonians which resulted in the destruction of the first Holy Temple. It is our custom to note such sad occurrences with a fast; in this case, from sun up to sun down. It provides a great opportunity to repent and review our lives so far. I read some truly moving writings by holocaust survivors and others. Cried like a baby. In truth, the observances aren't getting any easier. It's not the lack of food - I had plenty of practice with that all week. Another fast means another moment without Moshiach. Another chance for an end to war, hate, violence, and pain lost. Is it coincidence that Iranians rioted for the freedom today - the same day several millennium ago when we took to the walls of Jerusalem to defend our freedom as a nation, as a people? Here's an interesting take on our present situation from Rabbi Laser Brody, a Breslover. It's 7minutes long, so listen to what you can. It was posted in May 2009, and is called "The Last Generation Before Moshiach." I hope you find it as inspiring as I did.