E
very morning in birchos hashachar we thank Hashem for “preparing the footsteps of man — hameichin mitzadei gaver.” Every encounter we have throughout the day is preordained and has a specific purpose and lesson. Often we are oblivious to the Divine Plan and chalk these meetings up to simple happenstance.
Recently however I met someone who even I could see was dispatched from Above. In order to fully comprehend the import of our conversation a bit of background information is necessary.
Approximately ten years ago a well-respected mechanech whom I had heard of but barely knew approached me in shul one day after davening.
“Dr. Wikler may I speak with you in confidence?” he asked in an undertone.
