In this episode, Rabbi Mendy sits down with Errol Gerson, who (on the day of recording!) turns 81, to share a story of pain, resilience, and a powerful return to Jewish life.
Errol was born in South Africa and endured deep childhood trauma—abandonment, abuse, and years inside a so-called Orthodox institution that harmed the very children it claimed to protect. And yet, somehow, he never learned to hate. Instead, he carried a quiet inner knowing that Hashem was real—and that warmth he felt in shul meant something.
Errol’s journey winds through hardship, immigration to America with $300 and no plan B, homelessness, unexpected kindness, and the slow reawakening of Yiddishkeit. Along the way he discovers a core idea that becomes the cornerstone of his life: transformation—through truth, vulnerability, and gratitude.
This conversation touches on:
Childhood trauma and the choice not to hate
The long road back to Judaism and Hashem
Teshuva as “return,” not just apology
Gratitude (Moda Ani) as a daily spiritual engine
Bitachon (trust) and reframing the past
How one small practice can change a marriage—and a life
Errol’s closing message is simple and piercing: Don’t wait until you’re 81 to realize Hashem loves you and wants what’s best for you… the question is, what are you going to do about it?
What is The Long Short Way?
The Long Short Way is a podcast hosted by Rabbi Mendy Bistritzky, where meaningful stories meet soulful conversations. Each episode explores the winding paths of personal growth, faith, and purpose—highlighting the unexpected ways that challenge can lead to clarity, and that the "long short way" is often the most direct route to real transformation.
Through heartfelt storytelling and thoughtful interviews, Rabbi Mendy speaks with individuals about their spiritual journeys, life experiences, and the moments that shaped who they are today.
Produced by Chabad of Saugus, this podcast invites you to slow down, dig deeper, and discover the beauty in the process.
Subscribe and join us on the journey.