“Worry less. Somehow, Hashem makes sure that things work out. Trust the process — Hashem’s process.”

Book: Powerful Moments

Author: Rabbi Yitzchok Hisiger

Publisher: ArtScroll Mesorah

The author in three lines:

Rabbi Yitzchok Hisiger is an editor at ArtScroll / Mesorah Publications. He’s written for Yated Ne’eman since 2005, and is the author of several books. Brooklyn-born, Rabbi Hisiger presently resides in Lakewood, NJ.

The book in two lines:

A collection of fresh, inspiring short stories and anecdotes arranged by theme. You can dip in and out of the pages to find and savor the perfect story.

What’s the story behind this book?

Some years ago, I realized that nothing beats a short story for impact. A true story in particular is a powerful vehicle for an inspiring message. I began to write a column of short stories, and people began sending me stories to include. Ultimately, I published two books of stories under the title Food for Thought. Powerful Moments is a kind of sequel.

What motivated you to continue when things got challenging?

More than anything, it’s the encouragement I receive from my wife and children, from my parents and in-laws, from my siblings and extended family — and, of course, from readers! Readers don’t always realize how much their feedback means, but when someone is kind enough to call or email with a kind word or specific comment about a story, it infuses a writer with a desire to keep writing.

The hardest part to write

I find the actual writing to be one of the easiest parts, because I write gradually, over time, not in long sittings. Organizing of the stories and the editing process are much more tedious. Also, we included over 150 photos in this book, and choosing and organizing the pictures was a big task as well.

Which author do you wish could mentor you?

Just one? There’s so much to learn from so many brilliant writers. Growing up, I was an avid reader of Rabbi Hanoch Teller’s books. I have no doubt that he’d have fabulous tips for me.

I’m sure I would also benefit from the guidance of our own esteemed general editor, Rabbi Nosson Scherman, whom I’m fortunate to see in action each day