Chaim Lesser - A giant (in size 9 and 1/2 shoes and a fanny pack)

Chaim Lesser was one of the first bochurim of Yeshiva Ateres Shmuel of Waterbury when it was founded seven years ago. But he is much more than simply one of the first people to sign up. He quickly became one of the most influential members of the greater Waterbury community. Always there to help the younger bochurim, a roommate, or even a stranger, his capacity for generosity and chesed was no secret. His relaxed manner and his willingness to do any favor asked of him, no matter how exhausting help make him the beloved person that he is. His close relationship with the Rosh Yeshiva, and their mutual respect for one another are quite unusual and incredible to witness.

Seven years after the founding of Yeshiva Ateres Shmuel, we find Reb Chaim Lesser with his Aishes Chayil in their meticulous and spacious home, hosting family friends, Rabonim, and Roshei Yeshiva. The occasion is the upsherin of their Yehoshua Eliezer, the eldest of their two boys. But this was not simply a third birthday party. This was truly a celebration of the success of an individual a family and a community. Chaim Lesser was a masmid, and when the time came for him to join the ranks of those who are daily mikadesh shem shomayim in the workplace, he did so with the elegance and grace that only those who know him can truly appreciate. His sincere dedication to Torah learning keeps him up late at night, whether with a chavrusa at his dining room table at midnight, or in his study on his own. His hospitable home and warm inviting personality, coupled with the Rebbitzens sumptuous culinary efforts make his home a favorite spot for bochurim and other guests. His generosity and sharp mind make him an indispensable advisor and confidante of the Rosh Yeshiva and other members of the Yeshiva administration. That he is so indispensable to the workings of the Yeshiva at such a young age is a testament to his remarkable nature.

In August of 2005, at a gala banquet thrown by the Jewish Federation of Western Connecticut, Chaim Lesser was the guest of honor. He received the community leadership award, applauding his effort of behalf of Connecticut’s Jewry. Those in attendance heard Director Rab Zwang extolling the qualities and greatness that Chaim stands for. He spoke of the future of the Jewish community of Connecticut, and its grand past. He assured those gathered there that with young passionate growth minded people like Chaim Lesser, the Jewish community could look to an even brighter future. Then Chaim himself rose to speak. He spoke of how growth is truly the goal of every individual and institution. He went on to encourage the Yeshiva, Federation, and greater community to pool their many resources in interest of growth. After all, said Chaim, since we are all focused on growth, why not work together? The elegant plaque presented to Chaim Lesser echoed the words of Moshe Rabbenu when it said, “A community is too heavy for any one to carry alone.”

The upsherin was busy Sunday morning in Waterbury. Hewlett Street, possibly for the first time in its history did not have one spare parking spot. Guests arrived from all over the tri-state area bearing gifts and sporting smiles. The spacious Lesser home was packed to capacity with adults, children, bagels, pastas, and a pleasant variety of quiches. The Rosh Yeshiva, Rabbi Aaron Kaufman was in attendance, as was Rabbi Fishman, the Rosh Kollel, and Rabbi Bernstein, a maggid shiur. Rabbi Eliezer Wartelsky, the noted Maggid Shiur also made a brief appearance, wishing mazel tov and best wishes to the family. It was an emotional moment when the once flowing hair on Yehoshua Lesser was slowly cut for the first time. The beaming faces of the grandparents said more than any newspaper column ever could. A young eved Hashem was being formally entered into the study of Torah and the performance of mitzvos. The smile on this little yingeles face told everyone in that room that even at the tender age of three, he was truly excited to have such parents, and such a family.

But the story of the Lessers is not simply the story of one frum family reaching the incredible milestone of a sweet three year old boy’s formal entrance into the ranks of chinuch. It is not simply the story of a family who is living as Hashem wants us to. It is not simply about one who gives far more than required of himself to his community. It is about much more. Chaim Lesser’s simcha is the simcha of the entire Yeshiva and community of Waterbury. His magnificent example of what a young Torah family can be is a testament to his parents, his friends, and his Rabbeim, and to all of Klal Yisrael. Parents dream to raise such a son. Rabbeim dream to produce such students. And communities aspire to be filled with neighbors such as the Lessers.

Originally Published in Yated Neeman, Waterbury Page April 2008