Rabbi Aharon Margalit Shares Inspiring Life Story of Overcoming Adversity
Rabbi Aharon Margalit, in his 70s, recently appeared on the "Prozdor" podcast hosted by Yisrael Meir, sharing a deeply personal account of his life's struggles and triumphs. Growing up, he stuttered, contracted polio, and spent his childhood until age seven in a disability facility, with his mother visiting only once a week for brief periods. His life has been marked by significant loss, including a brother in the War of Attrition, a daughter after a short illness, and a son murdered tragically. He has also battled rickets four times, undergoing numerous surgeries and treatments.
Despite these immense challenges, Rabbi Margalit has achieved remarkable success. He is now a sought-after international speaker, authored a bestselling autobiography that has seen thirty editions, and created a children's comic book series. Professionally, he owns a large insurance agency, serves as a labor court judge, and volunteers with a combat unit, among other accomplishments.
His guiding principle is that "reality cannot be changed, but perspective can." He emphasizes choosing optimism and action over victimhood. He recounted how his mother encouraged him by saying he was a child "who has a disease" rather than "a sick child," and that she considered herself a "rich woman with debts." He also shared his belief that visualizing victory, down to the smallest details, is key to achieving goals.
Rabbi Margalit offered a unique perspective on truth, defining it not by right or wrong, but by its positive outcome. He advocates against causing disputes, even with truthful statements, and believes in encouraging children by telling them they are capable if it leads to a positive result. He also addressed the lack of emotional awareness and support in the Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) community, suggesting it harms children during family conflicts or divorces, expressing hope for change.
He concluded by stating that while reality is fixed, our reaction to it is entirely within our control, comparing it to choosing how to color a painting, whether with dark or vibrant hues.
