Now is the time for the very last refinements of this exile. In a period such as this, our reason might mistakenly tell us that certain aspects of this world appear to be far removed from any chance of being refined and elevated. By way of analogy: It is during the final stages of cooking that a pot boils most vigorously, so that the very dregs of its contents are thrust up to the surface. This is what is happening in these times of intensive refinement. Things that we previously considered to be beyond restitution may now well prove to be very close to their refinement, for in such times the refining process does not follow the usual patterns of orderly progression. (Rabbi Sholom Ber of Lubavitch)
(L'Chaim)