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On Purim

Rabbi Eliyahu Kitov wrote: "If one attains holiness through affliction, and another attains holiness through indulgence, who is the greater of the two? It may be said that the one who attains holiness through indulgence is greater, for the attainment of holiness through indulgence requires an infinitely greater degree of striving and effort."

Purim is almost upon us.  It is a sacred holiday where we approach God through soulful joy.  We stamp our feet, hiss at Haman's name, revel in hamentsachen, and celebrate the exuberance of God's saving grace.  Yet, the holiness still inheres in Purim even as we laugh and sing.  
Mindful of the real meaning of Purim as it draws close excitement grows.

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