Overcoming Obstacles

Art Lucy Almey Bird

Always remember: You are never given an obstacle you cannot overcome. 

[Rebbe Nachman of Breslov]

The Rebbe Maharash innovated the concept of "L'chatchila ariber".  The approach of l'chatchila ariber teaches that if we come upon an obstacle to a task we are involved in, or an obstacle to a mitzva or project or good deed which comes our way (or we pursue), we should overcome the obstacle in the most direct manner. 

The Rebbe Maharash explained that while some people propose that when confronted with an obstacle the best route is to go around, or under it -- but the Rebbe Maharash says: "And I say one has to go l'chatchila ariber [from the start, go over it]."