Nancy had no “master,” as mentioned in the Parsha, but she did have a challenging environment. She knew, however, that she was G-d’s servant, and behaved accordingly. Whether it was faithfully keeping Shabbos, or cooking her own food in remote locales, or acting with such honesty and integrity that everybody around her was amazed, she became—and remains—an unforgettable person. She never lost that closeness with G-d.

The second interesting point about Nancy is her unique personality. I have come up with a short list to demonstrate two seemingly contrasting sides to her personality. All of the expressions and descriptions are direct quotes from the many letters her friends have sent.

Nancy the Achiever Adventurous Fearless Self-confident Strong Powerful Presence Energetic Vivacious Intensely Competitive Aggressive Competitor Competes even against friends Fireball spirit Jumps up and attacks Hard-driving Conquers challenges Strong-willed Independent Determined Resolve and courage She is all business Physical and mental toughness

Nancy the Friend Loyal Encouraging Offers emotional support Inspiring Supporter Sincere Protector Savior Selfless Considerate Always giving Good Spirit Happy Smiling Deeply admired Easy to talk to Easy to be around Fun Makes sacrifices for friends Great friend Conducts herself with class and a smile An honest friend— corrects others Wins the admiration of even new friends A friend for life.

In reality, all these traits stem from a single root—To do one’s utmost in every situation. When it came to business, activities, sports, etc., Nancy strove for perfection. When it came to bein adam l’chaveiro, she strove for the same perfection: She did what was best for the other person. And in the area of bein adam la’Makom, the perfection lay in realizing that she was a part of G-d’s nation under all circumstances, ever committed to keeping his Torah and remaining close to Him.

If we emulate Nancy’s ways, seeing her as a role model for all of the virtues listed above, then losing her will not have been in vain. In her zechus, may we merit the ultimate perfection of the geulah sheleimah, the complete redemption, speedily in our days.