Just when you thought things were safe around here, and the controversy dies down, it's happening again. I am referring, of course, to the new trend of Chassidic Rebbes gracing those of us in Lakewood with their presence. Skver has come and gone, and on the heels of their successful (!) visit, the Satmar Rebbe is on his way. Mark your calendars, Parshas Vayechi. Dont know any details, but the debate remains - Hasidim - do we need 'em? Is this just another sign of Lakewood's "Growing Up", no longer a small town centered on the yeshiva, we now have all types?
Back in R' Aharon's days, out of respect for the Rosh Hayeshiva, people did not wear shtreimels in yeshiva's bais medrash. In R' Shneur's days, he allowed chasidish shtibles, but they were not called "Ger" or "Skver". When I moved to Lakewood 16 yrs ago, I could go months without seeing a Chasid. Now, driving along I see Chasidish ladies with hats and stuff walking along with their strollers, and the occasional shtreimel in Shoprite motzie shabbos. They are definitely here. So if the Rebbes want to visit, and there is an interest in them by their own people, I am okay with that. But what is the deal with bringing along 1,000 chasidim for shabbos? I mean, please. Isnt that overdoing it a little? In any case, my feeling is that if it brings to achdus, and understanding of each other's ways, it can only do good. We need more togetherness, instead of Us against Them. That does nobody good. The Roshei Yeshiva and Rabbis were very respectful of the Rebbe, and that seems like a diplomatic kind of thing to do. But my cynical side tells me that is not why they are coming. Obviously the word has gotten out among them that Lakewood donors give generously and it is well worth their time to cultivate the$e Relation$hip$.