(כבד את אביך ואת אמך למען יאריכון ימיך (יתרו כ:יב

In the early years following his marriage, Maran Reb Aharon of Belz zt’’l was not well. His doctor forbade him from immersing in the mikvah, and his father, Maran Reb Yissocher Dov of Belz zt’’l,  knowing his holy son and concerned he might not follow the medical advice, summoned him and forbade him to immerse until his condition allowed it.

Some time later, on a cold winter’s morning, Harav Reb Pinyala Ostalia zt’’l noticed Maran Reb Aharon walking in the direction of the mikvah. Fifteen minutes later, he saw him returning home and wondered how Maran Reb Aharon could go against his father’s command.

The next day, early in the morning, Reb Pinyala hid near the mikvah. To his astonishment, he saw Maran Reb Aharon enter, begin removing his clothes, and ascend the steps. Upon reaching the final step, Maran Reb Aharon paused and declared:“הנני מוכן ומזומן לקיים מצות כיבוד אב, נישט צו טובל’ן און מקוה”” “I am ready and willing to fulfill the mitzvah of honoring my father by not immersing in the mikvah.”

After saying this, Maran Reb Aharon turned around and walked home, fully obeying his father’s instruction.