I Got Back My Bitochon

Rav Sholom used to tell a story about the Mashgiach, Rav Chatzkel Levenstein. The Mashgiach was known for the serious expression he always wore, which reflected the yiras HaRomemus (awe of the Exalted One) that filled his entire being, all his 248 limbs and 365 sinews. One day a talmid walked in and was greatly surprised to find the Mashgiach smiling broadly, a rare sight indeed. When the talmid asked what had made him smile, Rav Chatzkel answered.

"When I was mashgiach in the Mir Yeshiva, I almost never received my monthly salary on time, because of the yeshiva's dire financial situation. I trusted in Hashem and had bitochon (trust) that He alone would provide my parnossa (livelihood) from other sources. When I took up the position of mashgiach in Ponovezh, my salary began to arrive on time, and unfortunately I lost that level of bitochon in Hashem regarding my parnossa. But now, thank Hashem, it has been some eight months that I have not been paid, because of the yeshiva's staggering debts, and I have my bitochon back that Hashem will send me my parnossa in another way. That is why I am so happy and overjoyed."