The chassidim gathered together to hear a chassidic discourse from their holy teacher and mentor, the Rebbe Rashab. They were singing the preparatory song that creates the appropriate energy for a chassidic discourse. But something was not right. They were rushing through this deep, meditative song, eager to get to the discourse.
"Stop," commanded the Rebbe Rashab. "This song is not to be rushed. A real chassid, a real Pnimi,* is one who-wherever he is, whatever he is doing-is in that moment, and in that doing, completely." And they proceeded to finish the song at a slower pace.
*A more complete definition: An authentic, self-aware person who fearlessly looks at his world, and proactively knows which paths to follow.
Prasad wrote...