Rabbi Cunin was sent to California as a shliach almost 40 years ago if not more by the then living Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson. California, in particular LA, was a spiritual wasteland from a traditional Torah point of view . Rabbi Cunin's relationship with the Rebbe is very deep. I would say his soul is bound up in the higher spheres constantly yearning for his connection. Everything he does is motivated by that yearning to do the Rebbes wishes. The love between a Hasid and Rebbe is a fire burning, the two flames of their souls are utterly merged, one in the other. It was miracle how this particular painting of the Lubavitcher Rebbe survived the burning of the Westwood Chabad house untouched. Rabbi Cunin takes it with him to all important events. This is the Telethon. Jon Voight has a special bond with Rabbi Cunin. Although he isn't jewish, my intuition is that Rabbi Cunin is somewhat of his Rebbe. I am deeply drawn into the symbolism of this image.
