Some people think about the important issues in life. A few of them work to find answers. Fewer still find them in the wellsprings of the Torah, Halachah, and the profound ideas of our sages and teachers. But how many people have the ability to articulate those answers in a way that will enlighten, inspire, and ease the hearts of the multitudes who seek constructive guidance and advice?

For that, we are grateful to Rabbi Yissocher Frand, who comes into our homes now with this, his second masterful book.

Modestly, Rabbi Frand insists that he presents few, if any, novel ideas to the reader, that all he does is share the discoveries that have had the most impact on himself. The thousands of people who have enjoyed his lectures and writings will respectfully disagree. This is a book that will open eyes and penetrate hearts. It will influence behavior and elevate aspirations. It will make a positive difference in people's lives.

The author knows what bothers people. He deals with troubling and vital issues: the modern scourge of cynicism; the family in an HMO-dominated society that is told that a loved one's “quality of life” is more important than the preservation of life; parents struggling with shidduchim; the tension between a Torah life and a “bottom line” society.

Such are the subjects of Rabbi Frand's conversations with himself and with us. “Conversation” is the right word, because the author speaks with us, not at us. He is proudest when people nod their heads as he lectures, because that is the signal that he has succeeded in touching the areas that trouble sincere people.

As we read this book, we will find our heads nodding from beginning to end. Indeed, this is a collection of conversations -- wise and enriching conversations -- with a friend and mentor who faces our challenges and gives us a welcome, sensitive, and sensible road map.