The Power to Bless

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Hello Rabbi Simon
I am very excited about completing my conversion process through immersing in the mikveh this week. I type that last sentence with so much hakaras hatov [gratitude] that my appointment is going ahead despite the contagion.
I was wondering about what I should have in mind during immersion. I understand that the day of conversion is a very auspicious day to give out Brochos (blessings). I know of two women who desperately want to become mothers. Would the time of my immersion be a propitious time to have these two ladies in mind? Following immersion my tutor has suggested that I think about the six constant mitzvahs.
I would very much appreciate your opinion.
Kind regards
Bat Avraham Avinu

Dear Bat Avraham
TY for your email. I am delighted for you that your historic day is approaching very soon.
The time of your immersion is indeed very auspicious. I would suggest that you concentrate at that moment on accepting a new and pristine neshamah [soul], and committing yourself to seeking to maintain its purity to the full extent that you can, for the rest of your days. The first berachah that you recite after emerging from the water, try to do so with absolute kavanah.
Your “power” to bless is enhanced at the time of doing a mitzvah. I would suggest that you give tzedakah on the day of your tevillah (immersion) with the intent that the merit of the mitzvah will assist those who seek your blessing.
Only because you have asked my advice, I am suggesting two local causes to whom you can donate online. Of course you may have other worthy charitable causes which are close to your heart.
http://www.kerenshabbos.org.uk/ provides food for families and individuals in need in the NW London community.
https://www.chana.org.uk/ assists with infertility and related concerns.
Best wishes and kind regards
Rabbi Rashi Simon

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Ask the Rabbi: Quinoa on Pesach
Dear Rabbi Simon,
Where do you stand on quinoa (and the kitniyot ban) for Pesach?
Many thanks,
Tzippy
***
Dear Tzippy,
In line with other American authorities, I am in favour of quinoa. Although I reject completely the voices (mostly from Israel) seeking to abolish the ban on kitniyot entirely, IMO we do not need to include in the prohibition pseudo-grains that were unknown in the Old World until modern times. Best to buy with a Pesach hechsher though, to be free of any possible wheat contamination.
Rabbi Rashi Simon
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