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| Satmar Rebbe, HaRavYoel Teitelbaum (center) - Photo courtesy VIN |
Reb Harry:
I hope all is well and thanks for your kind words.
For the record, I think it is important to note the
distinction between respectful disagreement which is healthy and personal
attacks/threats which is toxic.
As opposed to the personal attacks and harassment directed
at me since the Weberman trial began, the critique sent my way during the
Markey Bill debate was not unfair. People attacked my position -- with words
only -- some respectful, some otherwise. More than a few questioned my motives
and integrity, said that I was a puppet whose strings were being pulled by the
Agudah; on and on.
It wasn't enjoyable to read the comments, but I always felt
that their feelings and thoughts ought to be expressed. In our interconnected
world, one ought not write and post his/her thoughts in the public arena if
they are not prepared to have people disagree strongly with their opinion. Have
a look at our website and see the pretty strong attacks that I did not block or
delete – because it is all part of the imperfect but amazing system of
democracy.
“The Hedyot” and I have been debating on and off for years
now, and he criticizes me roundly in public forums when he feels that I am
wrong. I consider him a friend, though, and I dare say he feels the same way
about me. After communicating electronically for years, we recently met in
person and had a mutually enjoyable time together.
Bottom line, Reb Harry, is that there is absolutely no need
for anyone to apologize for things they wrote when the Markey matter was
churning. It was never taken personally, but rather part of a civilized give
and take.
While we are on the subject of dissent and dialogue, …
In an effort to engage the vast majority of moderate
Williamsburg chassidim in respectful discourse, I just extended an offer to
them to present their thoughts regarding the Weberman matter on our website here and via our Project YES worldwide email list.
B’yedidus
Yakov
