Tzaddikim

Tomorrow night, Saturday night, thousands upon thousands of Jews will make the pilgrimage up to the grave of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai, or the Rashbi in Meron to daven (pray) by his graveside.  If they started going up already, chances are they had the chance to daven at the gravesides of other tzaddikim such as the Arizal, Rabbi Akiva and more.  Now, to many people this might sound like a very christian thing to do, but this practice was going on in Judaism, long before christianity was around.  Of course, nobody is praying TO these tzaddikim, but simply praying in the merit of these tzaddikim.  Do we need tzaddikim for G-d to hear our prayers?  Of course not, G-d hears all prayers, but does praying in the merit of a great tzaddik hurt?  Of course not!  It only helps!  Another good and holy practice is to bind ourselves to the teachings of a tzaddik, and to follow his advice, since he knows the best way to help us.  A good tzaddik to bind yourself to, is of course our holy Rabbi and Master, Rabbeinu Nachman.  Although, it wouldn't hurt to find a tzaddik in the flesh as well.  Of course, how do we find such a true tzaddik?  By davening to Hashem that she should help us!  Hatzlacha to all in your quests to find true tzaddikim.