This weekend, we saw the awful destruction that both man and nature can create.
In Japan - the earthquake, the tsunami(s?), the possible nuclear meltdown, the chaos - the sheer uncertainty of life.
In Israel - a family shattered forever, on Shabbat during their sleep - what is supposed to be the most secure time in one's week.
One destruction by the hand of nature, one destruction by the hand of man.
I keep thinking - there is no way the news can get worse. I've been thinking this for a few years now, as the news headlines have become more outrageous. Economic collapse, horrible crimes, political revolutions, natural disasters - every time I read a headline, I think: this is it. Mashaich just has to come because I can't imagine how much more insane the headlines have to get.
And yet, the next day, the sun shines. It always shines. It always rises and shines and makes the sky look pretty and the flowers open and the birds chirp. Always.
That teaches us a lesson. It teaches us that to dispel darkness, we must give light. This is what Chabad teaches. When times seem to be the most dark - when things look the most bleak to you, that is when you must give light to the world. Goodness. Hope. Faith. Acts of kindness and charity. It's what got the 33 Chilean miners through. It's what Little Orphan Annie sings about. It's what gets us through our darkest moments - that hope for a better future, that things will turn around, and we will see the light.
So do what you can, please, to bring forth more light into this world. Light candles on Friday night, or give charity in honor of Purim, or share an unsolicited kind word about someone. Do what you can to increase the light.
Showing posts with label spirituality. Show all posts
Showing posts with label spirituality. Show all posts
Monday, March 14, 2011
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
A modern take on an ancient way of saying "no"
This post, while originally developed a while ago, is inspired by this post.
Everyone is well aware that our world is a 24/7 world. Not that it wasn't before, but technology has allowed us to be in perpetual motion, with live-streaming everything, on-demand everything, instant access to everything, even to the point of impacting geopolitics. The 9-5 job - a total relic of a by-gone era - is no longer a funny thing of our past, but now it's practically the norm to work on vacations (if you're lucky enough to take any) and check work email on weekends.
Moms have pressures of looking great, being green, signing kids up for the latest classes, volunteering here, there, and everywhere, and menu-planning has even taken on a life of its own.
How can you make it stop?
So our Torah - with its timeless wisdom revealed in each letter - offers a solution, a time-tested technique used by G-d Himself. Even G-d had to stop and say no. It's called Shabbat (our 7th day). Heard of it?
Shabbat is our chance to say no, to stop that cycle of perpetual motion. So much has been written about the beauty of Shabbat, how Shabbat has kept the Jews more than the Jews have kept it - all of that is great. And now, when there is so much discussion about the art of saying no and how do you limit your activities to only your priorities and how do you SCHEDULE IN quality time with your familiy...Shabbat offers us a way to say no. So simple.
It's not our decision that we can't this or that on Shabbat, I can't, it's Shabbat. I can't do anything about that.
I can't check email on Shabbat. I can't go to that party on Shabbat. I can't volunteer for that on Shabbat. I can't go to the store on Shabbat. Even better - you don't have an excuse - the decision was made for you - it is just your reality. You get to say no, and you say it with confidence, because no one can say anything to convince you otherwise.
So then the result is that you have one day a week where you don't check your email and you can't come in to the office to finish the project and you can't volunteer and you just say no - and you stop. And breathe.
And that is your anchor. Knowing that you have a whole 25-hour period where - since you don't have the "noise" of the external obligations - you can focus on what you TRULY prioritize, that is a blessing, you get re-energized and refreshed so that when Shabbat is over, you can spend the next 6 days doing what you need to do, and knowing that every week, no matter what, we set the table for Shabbat.*
*This line is a quote fron a children's Shabbat book my kids have, the title escapes me now.
Everyone is well aware that our world is a 24/7 world. Not that it wasn't before, but technology has allowed us to be in perpetual motion, with live-streaming everything, on-demand everything, instant access to everything, even to the point of impacting geopolitics. The 9-5 job - a total relic of a by-gone era - is no longer a funny thing of our past, but now it's practically the norm to work on vacations (if you're lucky enough to take any) and check work email on weekends.
Moms have pressures of looking great, being green, signing kids up for the latest classes, volunteering here, there, and everywhere, and menu-planning has even taken on a life of its own.
How can you make it stop?
So our Torah - with its timeless wisdom revealed in each letter - offers a solution, a time-tested technique used by G-d Himself. Even G-d had to stop and say no. It's called Shabbat (our 7th day). Heard of it?
Shabbat is our chance to say no, to stop that cycle of perpetual motion. So much has been written about the beauty of Shabbat, how Shabbat has kept the Jews more than the Jews have kept it - all of that is great. And now, when there is so much discussion about the art of saying no and how do you limit your activities to only your priorities and how do you SCHEDULE IN quality time with your familiy...Shabbat offers us a way to say no. So simple.
It's not our decision that we can't this or that on Shabbat, I can't, it's Shabbat. I can't do anything about that.
I can't check email on Shabbat. I can't go to that party on Shabbat. I can't volunteer for that on Shabbat. I can't go to the store on Shabbat. Even better - you don't have an excuse - the decision was made for you - it is just your reality. You get to say no, and you say it with confidence, because no one can say anything to convince you otherwise.
So then the result is that you have one day a week where you don't check your email and you can't come in to the office to finish the project and you can't volunteer and you just say no - and you stop. And breathe.
And that is your anchor. Knowing that you have a whole 25-hour period where - since you don't have the "noise" of the external obligations - you can focus on what you TRULY prioritize, that is a blessing, you get re-energized and refreshed so that when Shabbat is over, you can spend the next 6 days doing what you need to do, and knowing that every week, no matter what, we set the table for Shabbat.*
*This line is a quote fron a children's Shabbat book my kids have, the title escapes me now.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
What are you grateful for this week?
Anyone who joins us at our Shabbat table is expected to answer that question, weekly.
Such a simple question: What are you grateful for this week?
But it makes you stop. And think. And through the process of articulating that for which you are grateful, it makes that gratitude real and more alive than just thinking about it and letting it just happen.
It all started like this: When I lived in St. Louis, I was virtually adopted by the most amazing community I had experienced, and there was a particular family who often hosted me for Shabbat lunch and dinner. Shabbat dinner at their house was a huge affair, typically with over 20 people. And in between the soup and main courses, we would go around the table and state what we are grateful for each week. And after each person spoke, we'd make a l'chaim.
With so many people around the table, this could take up to 30 minutes, if not more.
But no one was rushed, no one minced words, and occasionally there were tears (of gratitude) and laughter. Now granted, not everyone was grateful for something as profound as world peace or things like that...usually people were grateful for their jobs, a roof over their head, money to pay the bills that week, a medical procedure that went well, a test in school that was aced, a successful work project, or just hitting all green lights on the way to work that day.
That was the whole beauty of it - there are so many things to be grateful for each day - do we take the time to think about all of those little bits that add up to a pretty good day?
Many people save their declarations of gratitude for Thanksgiving. But I was so moved by this family custom that I adopted it as my own*, and now this is just what we do. Shabbat is the perfect time to stop - think - and say thanks.
For all of the little miracles, and big ones, and everything in between.
*This family is very aware that we have adopted their custom and we always give them credit at our table. And in a weird twist of fate, their son lived in Houston for a year for his residency so we got to see the father again. Small world...
Such a simple question: What are you grateful for this week?
But it makes you stop. And think. And through the process of articulating that for which you are grateful, it makes that gratitude real and more alive than just thinking about it and letting it just happen.
It all started like this: When I lived in St. Louis, I was virtually adopted by the most amazing community I had experienced, and there was a particular family who often hosted me for Shabbat lunch and dinner. Shabbat dinner at their house was a huge affair, typically with over 20 people. And in between the soup and main courses, we would go around the table and state what we are grateful for each week. And after each person spoke, we'd make a l'chaim.
With so many people around the table, this could take up to 30 minutes, if not more.
But no one was rushed, no one minced words, and occasionally there were tears (of gratitude) and laughter. Now granted, not everyone was grateful for something as profound as world peace or things like that...usually people were grateful for their jobs, a roof over their head, money to pay the bills that week, a medical procedure that went well, a test in school that was aced, a successful work project, or just hitting all green lights on the way to work that day.
That was the whole beauty of it - there are so many things to be grateful for each day - do we take the time to think about all of those little bits that add up to a pretty good day?
Many people save their declarations of gratitude for Thanksgiving. But I was so moved by this family custom that I adopted it as my own*, and now this is just what we do. Shabbat is the perfect time to stop - think - and say thanks.
For all of the little miracles, and big ones, and everything in between.
*This family is very aware that we have adopted their custom and we always give them credit at our table. And in a weird twist of fate, their son lived in Houston for a year for his residency so we got to see the father again. Small world...
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Parsha Parenting - Ki Tisa - calling all women!
How did I miss this?
Even though this Parsha Parenting post is for last week's parsha, Ki Tisa, it's still timeless and a lesson worthy to remember.
Women and mothers - a toast to all of you and here's to continuing to bring the light to the world and our homes and our children throughout the ages...
Even though this Parsha Parenting post is for last week's parsha, Ki Tisa, it's still timeless and a lesson worthy to remember.
Women and mothers - a toast to all of you and here's to continuing to bring the light to the world and our homes and our children throughout the ages...
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Happy Tu B'Shevat everyone!
Happy birthday to the trees!
Houston is fortunately a rather green city and most trees retain most of their green color through the Houston winter. Take some time today and thank your local tree for:
Enjoy the day!
Houston is fortunately a rather green city and most trees retain most of their green color through the Houston winter. Take some time today and thank your local tree for:
- providing a home for birds and small animals
- providing shade when you feel the heat
- providing us with beauty to look at
- shielding us from extreme weather
- improving our air quality
- giving us something to talk about with our kids outside
- providing us with oxygen - VERY important :-)
- and more you can read about here and here
Enjoy the day!
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
The 10th of Shevat - Remembering the Rebbe
Rebbe Menachem Mendel Schneerson, the leader of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement, assumed leadership a year on this date after his father-in-law, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneerson, the previous leader of the movement, passed away on this date.
I just received an email about this occasion, which Chabadniks celebrate worldwide, and I want to share its message with you.
All Jews in our generation, and in recent memory, have been affected by the Rebbe, even if you don't realize it. The entire concept of Jewish outreach was developed by this individual. Think about it: you could go on quietly living your life, going to synagogue, doing your rituals, keeping kosher, doing everything routinely - OR - you can do something to INCREASE the growth of Judaism.
Think about it: Judaism is an incredibly rich culture and heritage that, even if you just skim the surface, has something for everyone. The simple beauty of the Rebbe did was to find that spark within each person and connect it to Judaism. Interested in healthy living? Judaism has something to say about that. Interested in moral justice? Judaism has something to say about that. Interested in growing your business? Judaism has something to say about that.
The Rebbe realized that Judaism will not grow if people keep Judaism to themselves, living their quiet lives. Judaism will ONLY grow if we DIRECTLY engage with it, debate and discuss it, and ultimately, learn from it and apply it to our lives.
That's why the Chabad style of outreach has been so successful: they follow the mantra I learned in my MBA program - what's in it for me? Once this question is answered, walls are broken down.
This was a huge upheaval 60 years ago, when the Rebbe assumed leadership.
So, now fast-forward 60 years - we have young adult programs, eco-Judaism programs, Tot Shabbat programs, Jewish cooking and crafting programs, business ethics learning, medical ethics learning, daily learning, weekly learning, on-the-phone learning, webcasts, podcasts, and on and on and on, and not just coming from the Chabad-Lubavitch movement, but many many outreach organizations, Federations, and community-based organizations throughout the world breathing new life into Judaism, making the ancient relevent again.
And all thanks to a simple idea driven by one man, who never tired of the challenge.
Click here to watch a most inspirational video about the Rebbe's drive.
"...[w]e must never be satisfied with what [w]e achieved yesterday..." - Rebbe Menachem Mendel Schneerson
I just received an email about this occasion, which Chabadniks celebrate worldwide, and I want to share its message with you.
All Jews in our generation, and in recent memory, have been affected by the Rebbe, even if you don't realize it. The entire concept of Jewish outreach was developed by this individual. Think about it: you could go on quietly living your life, going to synagogue, doing your rituals, keeping kosher, doing everything routinely - OR - you can do something to INCREASE the growth of Judaism.
Think about it: Judaism is an incredibly rich culture and heritage that, even if you just skim the surface, has something for everyone. The simple beauty of the Rebbe did was to find that spark within each person and connect it to Judaism. Interested in healthy living? Judaism has something to say about that. Interested in moral justice? Judaism has something to say about that. Interested in growing your business? Judaism has something to say about that.
The Rebbe realized that Judaism will not grow if people keep Judaism to themselves, living their quiet lives. Judaism will ONLY grow if we DIRECTLY engage with it, debate and discuss it, and ultimately, learn from it and apply it to our lives.
That's why the Chabad style of outreach has been so successful: they follow the mantra I learned in my MBA program - what's in it for me? Once this question is answered, walls are broken down.
This was a huge upheaval 60 years ago, when the Rebbe assumed leadership.
So, now fast-forward 60 years - we have young adult programs, eco-Judaism programs, Tot Shabbat programs, Jewish cooking and crafting programs, business ethics learning, medical ethics learning, daily learning, weekly learning, on-the-phone learning, webcasts, podcasts, and on and on and on, and not just coming from the Chabad-Lubavitch movement, but many many outreach organizations, Federations, and community-based organizations throughout the world breathing new life into Judaism, making the ancient relevent again.
And all thanks to a simple idea driven by one man, who never tired of the challenge.
Click here to watch a most inspirational video about the Rebbe's drive.
"...[w]e must never be satisfied with what [w]e achieved yesterday..." - Rebbe Menachem Mendel Schneerson
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Another year, another new start
Hello January 2011!
Many observant Jews don't really "celebrate" the coming of the new calendar year, because hey, we've got 4 of our own. (4 you say? Really? Yes, really. Read more about that here.) For me, the new calendar year always brings with it a freshness, a feeling of renewal, similar to one I feel the morning after Rosh Hashana (and after Yom Kippur, and the day after my birthday...), so I actually welcome the new year and always do something to mark the occasion.
While it's true that we should live each day like it's our last, and to take advantage of the new opportunities that each day brings us, it's really hard to make that practical. Because each day, when it's Monday June 17th or Thursday April 4th or Tuesday January 23rd, I've got bills to pay, lunches to pack, laundry to do, a car to get inspected, a project deadline looming, and a present I need to buy for someone who just had a baby/birthday/wedding, oh, and we just ran out of milk/bread/eggs/cereal all at the same time (magically, this happens more often than it should in my house). You know, there's stuff to do, I'm busy, and I don't really have time to reflect on living fully each day. But new years come around, and that's my landmark to wake up, look around, and re-assess my life. So I take advantage of the new calendar year, excited that I have NO IDEA what lies ahead of me in the coming year (a new baby? a new car? a trip to Israel? a new job opportunity? a new laundry hamper for the bedroom?) but confident that, regardless, I have the resources and the support to face my challenges (although a new laundry hamper would be a welcome addition and not a challenge. Just to be clear).
It's an exciting time and it's so full of possibilities! Grab every opportunity you can to be grateful for what you have, set new goals for yourself, commit to learning something new, try harder, eat more fruits and veggies, and while this list sounds like another one of those "pie-in-the-sky" resolution lists that everyone makes this time of year, make it REAL. Set concrete goals, like try one new soup recipe. Try one new class. Read more Jewish articles online. Do one more thing on your path towards greater observance/learning. Do something crazy like crocheting or cooking or gardening. Make your challenges fun.
And to that - l'chaim and wishing all you only the very best in 2011!!
Many observant Jews don't really "celebrate" the coming of the new calendar year, because hey, we've got 4 of our own. (4 you say? Really? Yes, really. Read more about that here.) For me, the new calendar year always brings with it a freshness, a feeling of renewal, similar to one I feel the morning after Rosh Hashana (and after Yom Kippur, and the day after my birthday...), so I actually welcome the new year and always do something to mark the occasion.
While it's true that we should live each day like it's our last, and to take advantage of the new opportunities that each day brings us, it's really hard to make that practical. Because each day, when it's Monday June 17th or Thursday April 4th or Tuesday January 23rd, I've got bills to pay, lunches to pack, laundry to do, a car to get inspected, a project deadline looming, and a present I need to buy for someone who just had a baby/birthday/wedding, oh, and we just ran out of milk/bread/eggs/cereal all at the same time (magically, this happens more often than it should in my house). You know, there's stuff to do, I'm busy, and I don't really have time to reflect on living fully each day. But new years come around, and that's my landmark to wake up, look around, and re-assess my life. So I take advantage of the new calendar year, excited that I have NO IDEA what lies ahead of me in the coming year (a new baby? a new car? a trip to Israel? a new job opportunity? a new laundry hamper for the bedroom?) but confident that, regardless, I have the resources and the support to face my challenges (although a new laundry hamper would be a welcome addition and not a challenge. Just to be clear).
It's an exciting time and it's so full of possibilities! Grab every opportunity you can to be grateful for what you have, set new goals for yourself, commit to learning something new, try harder, eat more fruits and veggies, and while this list sounds like another one of those "pie-in-the-sky" resolution lists that everyone makes this time of year, make it REAL. Set concrete goals, like try one new soup recipe. Try one new class. Read more Jewish articles online. Do one more thing on your path towards greater observance/learning. Do something crazy like crocheting or cooking or gardening. Make your challenges fun.
And to that - l'chaim and wishing all you only the very best in 2011!!
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Caroling...and me
I've never actually experienced a group of carolers before, until today. Sure - I've seen them in movies and on tv, but I never before heard an actual group of roving singers singing Xmas songs.
Here's what happened:
I work in a hospital, and I was busy doing my work, with my door shut as usual, when I heard what sounded like live singing coming down the hallway. It was getting louder and louder, and I thought that there is no way that could be fake. I opened the door, and there was the group: various nurse managers and volunteers singing their hearts out from these Xmas songs. I really hoped the patients enjoyed the singing.
As for me, I suddenly had a strong urge to put up a mezuzah on my office door.
This is a funny season. I actually love this time of year: buildings and parks and roadways are decorated nicely, cooking and parties rule the day, everyone has giftgiving and sharing on their minds, and tv programs and movies are all about families and reconciliations and getting together. It's a wonderful feeling. I wish the world enjoyed this feeling more often. But it's not for me. It's not my holiday, not my season. And yet, I revel in it. I savor every decoration, every cooking show, every magazine cover. Maybe it's because it's an "other" for me - after all, I don't have to deal with decorating my house and buying presents for 50 people and making it bigger and better than last year. As a matter of fact, I just wrapped up an awesome Chanukah holiday, if you ask me!!!
And on December 26, I always feel a little deflated. Like - that's it? After all that build up, that's it? They get that one day, and then it's back to work? What do you take with you for the rest of the year? What did you learn from this holiday that you didn't know before? How are you spiritually higher?
So I sit back, happy to be just a spectator in someone else's good time. But like today, I am constantly reminded that it's not MY holiday. Even if I like the music (no wonder why since my co-religionists composed many of the popular songs!), and the food (make it kosher!), and the decor.
Instead, I'll start planning for an awesome Tu B'Shvat 2011...
Here's what happened:
I work in a hospital, and I was busy doing my work, with my door shut as usual, when I heard what sounded like live singing coming down the hallway. It was getting louder and louder, and I thought that there is no way that could be fake. I opened the door, and there was the group: various nurse managers and volunteers singing their hearts out from these Xmas songs. I really hoped the patients enjoyed the singing.
As for me, I suddenly had a strong urge to put up a mezuzah on my office door.
This is a funny season. I actually love this time of year: buildings and parks and roadways are decorated nicely, cooking and parties rule the day, everyone has giftgiving and sharing on their minds, and tv programs and movies are all about families and reconciliations and getting together. It's a wonderful feeling. I wish the world enjoyed this feeling more often. But it's not for me. It's not my holiday, not my season. And yet, I revel in it. I savor every decoration, every cooking show, every magazine cover. Maybe it's because it's an "other" for me - after all, I don't have to deal with decorating my house and buying presents for 50 people and making it bigger and better than last year. As a matter of fact, I just wrapped up an awesome Chanukah holiday, if you ask me!!!
And on December 26, I always feel a little deflated. Like - that's it? After all that build up, that's it? They get that one day, and then it's back to work? What do you take with you for the rest of the year? What did you learn from this holiday that you didn't know before? How are you spiritually higher?
So I sit back, happy to be just a spectator in someone else's good time. But like today, I am constantly reminded that it's not MY holiday. Even if I like the music (no wonder why since my co-religionists composed many of the popular songs!), and the food (make it kosher!), and the decor.
Instead, I'll start planning for an awesome Tu B'Shvat 2011...
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Brief Hiatus
Due to the Sukkot holiday, I am taking a hiatus from posting simply because of time issues. However, I'll be back! In the meantime, check out this awesome Chabad video (and it includes Houston, of course!) to get you into the mood for Simchat Torah!!
Friday, September 17, 2010
Ten Questions for Ten Days: Parts #9-10
Sorry this is coming so late in the day. I was swamped at work.
Question # 9 - What small step can I take to begin meaningful change?
Are you starting to feel as though these questions are like therapy-lite? Where is the Judaism in all of these questions?
Well, Judaism is a religion of action. Intent is very important too, don't get me wrong, but if you think about it, a lot of Judaism centers around activities and experiences. You light the candles, you shake the lulav, you immerse in the mikvah, you say out loud a loud, you communicate nicely with your spouse. Having the right intent gets you halfway there, but you need to act on that intent to make it count.
What Judaism actually cares about, and this is something that the Chabad movement emphasizes very well, is that any positive step counts. Can't take on all of the observances related to Shabbat cold turkey? Start by not watching tv while you eat dinner on Friday night. Can't dive into keeping kosher with a cannonball dive? Try not eating crabcakes for a week, and reassess afterwards. Can't totally stop yourself from criticizing your spouse? Try having a critisicm-free hour.
Every little step counts. What will your little step be?
Questions #10 - What can I do for my people and the Land of Israel?
We are a unique people. The Jewish people are a communal people; no matter where you go in the world, if you are in a foreign not knowing a single soul and you walk into a kosher restaurant/synagogue/Jewish center, you will be welcomed with open arms, offered recommendations, invited to people's homes for meals, and more (I know because it's happened to me). Everything that happens to Jews in one part of the world affects the rest of the world Jewish population.
So given all of this introspection and self-reflection, the final questions asks you what kind of role YOUR link in the Jewish chain of history and peoplehood will play. What kind of impact will you have on all of us? How will you defend and support Israel? How will you stand up to anti-Semitism? How will you ensure the continuity of the Jewish people? How will you teach your children?
(all ideas taken from this Aish.com article by Rabbi Benjamin Blech)
Yom Kippur 5771: the day you begin the rest of your life.
I wish everyone an easy and meaningful fast and a new year filled with love, good health, and (to paraphrase a toast in Georgia, the country) may your needs and wants coincide, always.
Question # 9 - What small step can I take to begin meaningful change?
Are you starting to feel as though these questions are like therapy-lite? Where is the Judaism in all of these questions?
Well, Judaism is a religion of action. Intent is very important too, don't get me wrong, but if you think about it, a lot of Judaism centers around activities and experiences. You light the candles, you shake the lulav, you immerse in the mikvah, you say out loud a loud, you communicate nicely with your spouse. Having the right intent gets you halfway there, but you need to act on that intent to make it count.
What Judaism actually cares about, and this is something that the Chabad movement emphasizes very well, is that any positive step counts. Can't take on all of the observances related to Shabbat cold turkey? Start by not watching tv while you eat dinner on Friday night. Can't dive into keeping kosher with a cannonball dive? Try not eating crabcakes for a week, and reassess afterwards. Can't totally stop yourself from criticizing your spouse? Try having a critisicm-free hour.
Every little step counts. What will your little step be?
Questions #10 - What can I do for my people and the Land of Israel?
We are a unique people. The Jewish people are a communal people; no matter where you go in the world, if you are in a foreign not knowing a single soul and you walk into a kosher restaurant/synagogue/Jewish center, you will be welcomed with open arms, offered recommendations, invited to people's homes for meals, and more (I know because it's happened to me). Everything that happens to Jews in one part of the world affects the rest of the world Jewish population.
So given all of this introspection and self-reflection, the final questions asks you what kind of role YOUR link in the Jewish chain of history and peoplehood will play. What kind of impact will you have on all of us? How will you defend and support Israel? How will you stand up to anti-Semitism? How will you ensure the continuity of the Jewish people? How will you teach your children?
(all ideas taken from this Aish.com article by Rabbi Benjamin Blech)
Yom Kippur 5771: the day you begin the rest of your life.
I wish everyone an easy and meaningful fast and a new year filled with love, good health, and (to paraphrase a toast in Georgia, the country) may your needs and wants coincide, always.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Ten Days of Awe: Ten Questions - Part #7
Question #7 - What should I pray for?
Hm, now that's a loaded question. Theoretically, you should give this question a lot of thought before the big day comes. In the words of the wise Spice Girls, what do you want, what you really really want? Do you want a new car? Do you want some new living room furniture? Do you want to make enough parnassah (income) this year to pay for your kid's tuition without having to seek financial aid? Do you want good health because you work in a hospital and realize that at the end of the day, you can have all the money in the world and it would do you no good if you're sick? Do you want to find your soulmate? A better relationship with your mom?
What are your priorities?
(ideas taken from this Aish.com article by Rabbi Benjamin Blech)
Hm, now that's a loaded question. Theoretically, you should give this question a lot of thought before the big day comes. In the words of the wise Spice Girls, what do you want, what you really really want? Do you want a new car? Do you want some new living room furniture? Do you want to make enough parnassah (income) this year to pay for your kid's tuition without having to seek financial aid? Do you want good health because you work in a hospital and realize that at the end of the day, you can have all the money in the world and it would do you no good if you're sick? Do you want to find your soulmate? A better relationship with your mom?
What are your priorities?
(ideas taken from this Aish.com article by Rabbi Benjamin Blech)
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Ten Days of Awe: Ten Questions - Part #6
Question #6 - What should I be doing differently this coming year?
You've prayed, you're hopeful, you're optimistic, and you have a dream for the coming year. What's missing? YOU. You need to change some action or behavior or thought process in order to facilitate bringing about the change you desire. Obviously what you've been doing in the past hasn't been working; what step will you take to change? Even a teeny tiny step will do. Why? Because it's the effort that counts.
(ideas taken from this Aish.com article by Rabbi Benjamin Blech)
You've prayed, you're hopeful, you're optimistic, and you have a dream for the coming year. What's missing? YOU. You need to change some action or behavior or thought process in order to facilitate bringing about the change you desire. Obviously what you've been doing in the past hasn't been working; what step will you take to change? Even a teeny tiny step will do. Why? Because it's the effort that counts.
(ideas taken from this Aish.com article by Rabbi Benjamin Blech)
Monday, September 13, 2010
Ten Days of Awe: Ten Questions - Part #5
Question #5 - What is my dream for the coming year?
This comes on the heels of the previous question, which asks if you are optimistic about the coming year. What is your dream? Is it for world peace? Is it to buy a house? Is it for personal growth? Is it to find a spouse? What's your goal, what is stopping you from pursuing it, and how can you overcome that barrier?
(taken from this Aish.com article here by Rabbi Benjamin Blech)
This comes on the heels of the previous question, which asks if you are optimistic about the coming year. What is your dream? Is it for world peace? Is it to buy a house? Is it for personal growth? Is it to find a spouse? What's your goal, what is stopping you from pursuing it, and how can you overcome that barrier?
(taken from this Aish.com article here by Rabbi Benjamin Blech)
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Ten Days of Awe: Ten Questions - Parts #1-4
We are now in the period between Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur, a time of heightened introspection. Well, heightened is really an understatement; the judgment on each of us that was determined on Rosh Hashana will be sealed on Yom Kippur. But - there are still ten days of opportunities where we have the ability to change our fates. The Ten Days of Awe give us the final chance to do true repentance and to do real growth. This great writer at Aish.com has ten questions for us to consider during each of the Ten Days.
Question #1 - What should I be grateful for as I begin the New Year?
Life goes by us so quickly that we forget the myriad of things we have to be grateful for: the sunrise every day, our children's laughter, our good health, our sound mind, our parents, our friends, our modern conveniences (hello indoor plumbing!). My husband and I have a tradition, which we copied from a rabbi and his family who greatly inspired me, to go around the table every Friday night and have each person say what they are grateful for for this past week. It is important to remember and to say it out loud.
Question #2 - What do I owe G-d for all of the things He's done for me?
Did you get a new job or new opportunity this past year? Did you meet a new friend who is now your best friend? Did your kid score well on a standardized test? Did you find a super bargain at a store for something you love? Do you owe G-d a simple "thanks" for any of those things?
Question #3 - What can I do to ensure that G-d hears my prayers?
When you converse with someone, what do you do to ensure that they listen to you? You listen to them first. Everyone has had those conversations with people where they felt that they totally were not being listened to, and the other person was just talking and talking with no end. It's the same in our conversation with G-d. Rav Kook teaches that when we talk, it's through prayer, but when G-d talks, it's through the Torah. You want to be heard during this Ten Day period? Then make sure you do some listening (aka studying).
Question #4 - Am I optimistic about the coming year?
Well, in a nutshell, you ought to have something to live for, yes? Otherwise, it just wouldn't work, right..? Ergo, you must be optimistic. Pick a goal for the year, pick a dream - some may call it a "resolution". Choose to do something for the better, and have hope, faith, and trust that you will be able to accomplish it (with Hashem's help, of course!).
(all questions and ideas by Rabbi Benjamin Blech as presented in this article)
Question #1 - What should I be grateful for as I begin the New Year?
Life goes by us so quickly that we forget the myriad of things we have to be grateful for: the sunrise every day, our children's laughter, our good health, our sound mind, our parents, our friends, our modern conveniences (hello indoor plumbing!). My husband and I have a tradition, which we copied from a rabbi and his family who greatly inspired me, to go around the table every Friday night and have each person say what they are grateful for for this past week. It is important to remember and to say it out loud.
Question #2 - What do I owe G-d for all of the things He's done for me?
Did you get a new job or new opportunity this past year? Did you meet a new friend who is now your best friend? Did your kid score well on a standardized test? Did you find a super bargain at a store for something you love? Do you owe G-d a simple "thanks" for any of those things?
Question #3 - What can I do to ensure that G-d hears my prayers?
When you converse with someone, what do you do to ensure that they listen to you? You listen to them first. Everyone has had those conversations with people where they felt that they totally were not being listened to, and the other person was just talking and talking with no end. It's the same in our conversation with G-d. Rav Kook teaches that when we talk, it's through prayer, but when G-d talks, it's through the Torah. You want to be heard during this Ten Day period? Then make sure you do some listening (aka studying).
Question #4 - Am I optimistic about the coming year?
Well, in a nutshell, you ought to have something to live for, yes? Otherwise, it just wouldn't work, right..? Ergo, you must be optimistic. Pick a goal for the year, pick a dream - some may call it a "resolution". Choose to do something for the better, and have hope, faith, and trust that you will be able to accomplish it (with Hashem's help, of course!).
(all questions and ideas by Rabbi Benjamin Blech as presented in this article)
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Don't wait, start now!
Every day, with our routine schedules, lunches to pack, meetings to attend, laundry to do, bills to pay, we forget how we have the capability to actually change the world. Yes - WE have that ability. A warm smile, a warm meal, an attentive ear - what a simple action can do is open the door to a new world order. As we launch the new year, think about the power you embody, the people you see every day and the strangers you gloss over, and don't wait for the new year to start changing the world, start today.
Watch this video; it will stay with you forever.
Watch this video; it will stay with you forever.
The blog post to rock your month
(month of Tishrei, that is)
I'm not sure that three-day holidays (read: Rosh Hashana and both ends of Sukkot this year) are all they are cracked up to be, but regardless of the logistical challenges they pose, we are supposed to approach them with joy, thoughtfulness, and full-mindedness.
However, sometimes the logistical challenges can seem overwhelming.
Enter Juggling Frogs and her amazing blog posts. This blogger has stopped blogging since fall of 2009, but her blog continues to inspire and amaze me. For three-day holidays like we have this year, she created an extremely handy grid and a lengthy blog post to help you prepare better for these holidays.
Read the full post here.
You can thank me later.
I'm not sure that three-day holidays (read: Rosh Hashana and both ends of Sukkot this year) are all they are cracked up to be, but regardless of the logistical challenges they pose, we are supposed to approach them with joy, thoughtfulness, and full-mindedness.
However, sometimes the logistical challenges can seem overwhelming.
Enter Juggling Frogs and her amazing blog posts. This blogger has stopped blogging since fall of 2009, but her blog continues to inspire and amaze me. For three-day holidays like we have this year, she created an extremely handy grid and a lengthy blog post to help you prepare better for these holidays.
Read the full post here.
You can thank me later.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Something Special Tuesday
Welcome to Something Special Tuesday!
Something Special Tuesday is devoted to 4 subject areas: yummy, crafty, spiritual, and financial. Whether or not I add more to the list is yet to be seen. I will present to you my favorite posts from the blogosphere related to these subject areas and I hope you enjoy the posts as much as I do, and perhaps even get inspired from them.
Caveat: since I do have a full-time job and 2 little ones under the age of 3 at home, I cannot absolutely promise that I will stick to this schedule every single week, but I will certainly try.
Of course - I would love to hear suggestions! So here are my picks for this week:
Something yummy: I made homemade yogurt last Thursday in my crockpot! Yes, it can be done! The result is a very creamy plain yogurt with a fresh, tangy taste. I made it with 1% milk (my first attempt was with whole milk and that got rave reviews). Now I need to make some homemade granola to go with it...
Something crafty: Even though I moved in to my office about 6 months ago, I really haven't decorated it much (and the addition of a dry-erase white board last week got me very excited). I saw this gorgeous mirror and I really plan on making it, especially since it looks super-easy, so even though I totally don't sew, I just love the idea of the colorful rainbow. And it will really brighten up my office.
Something spiritual: I get a lot of my inspiration online - there are so very, very many beautiful stories out there - and since we are now starting the month of Elul and the countdown to Rosh Hashana, when this essay landed in my inbox yesterday I knew I had to share it with everyone.
Something financial: When it comes to saving money, I can't think of anything easier than clipping coupons. You don't have to be all obsessive about it, and you don't need to spend a lot of time on it, and there are lots of blogs that do all of the work for you so you can just print the coupon or grocery list and go. Those few minutes spent gathering those coupons, those several dollars saved with each trip to the grocery store, all of that can really add up. Right now I am averaging a savings of about 30% on my grocery bill. NOT BAD AT ALL. This site is a great place to start for coupons and terrific deals.
Let me know what you think! Have a great Tuesday!
Something Special Tuesday is devoted to 4 subject areas: yummy, crafty, spiritual, and financial. Whether or not I add more to the list is yet to be seen. I will present to you my favorite posts from the blogosphere related to these subject areas and I hope you enjoy the posts as much as I do, and perhaps even get inspired from them.
Caveat: since I do have a full-time job and 2 little ones under the age of 3 at home, I cannot absolutely promise that I will stick to this schedule every single week, but I will certainly try.
Of course - I would love to hear suggestions! So here are my picks for this week:
Something yummy: I made homemade yogurt last Thursday in my crockpot! Yes, it can be done! The result is a very creamy plain yogurt with a fresh, tangy taste. I made it with 1% milk (my first attempt was with whole milk and that got rave reviews). Now I need to make some homemade granola to go with it...
Something crafty: Even though I moved in to my office about 6 months ago, I really haven't decorated it much (and the addition of a dry-erase white board last week got me very excited). I saw this gorgeous mirror and I really plan on making it, especially since it looks super-easy, so even though I totally don't sew, I just love the idea of the colorful rainbow. And it will really brighten up my office.
Something spiritual: I get a lot of my inspiration online - there are so very, very many beautiful stories out there - and since we are now starting the month of Elul and the countdown to Rosh Hashana, when this essay landed in my inbox yesterday I knew I had to share it with everyone.
Something financial: When it comes to saving money, I can't think of anything easier than clipping coupons. You don't have to be all obsessive about it, and you don't need to spend a lot of time on it, and there are lots of blogs that do all of the work for you so you can just print the coupon or grocery list and go. Those few minutes spent gathering those coupons, those several dollars saved with each trip to the grocery store, all of that can really add up. Right now I am averaging a savings of about 30% on my grocery bill. NOT BAD AT ALL. This site is a great place to start for coupons and terrific deals.
Let me know what you think! Have a great Tuesday!
Monday, July 19, 2010
Tonight begins the saddest day of the Jewish year
Tonight is the start of Tisha B'Av, the Ninth Day of the month of Av, known as the saddest day of the year.
Quite simply, Tisha B'Av marks the many occasions the world has attempted to destory the Jewish people.
A few famous mentionables (from this article):
• During the time of Moses, Jews in the desert accepted the slanderous report of the 10 Spies, and the decree was issued forbidding them from entering the Land of Israel. (1312 BCE)
• The First Temple was destroyed by the Babylonians, led by Nebuchadnezzar. 100,000 Jews were slaughtered and millions more exiled. (586 BCE)
• The Second Temple was destroyed by the Romans, led by Titus. Some two million Jews died, and another one million were exiled. (70 CE)
• The Bar Kochba revolt was crushed by Roman Emperor Hadrian. The city of Betar -- the Jews' last stand against the Romans -- was captured and liquidated. Over 100,000 Jews were slaughtered. (135 CE)
• The Temple area and its surroundings were plowed under by the Roman general Turnus Rufus. Jerusalem was rebuilt as a pagan city -- renamed Aelia Capitolina -- and access was forbidden to Jews.
More modern events:
1.The Spanish Inquisition culminated with the expulsion of Jews from Spain on Tisha B'Av in 1492.
2.World War One broke out on the eve of Tisha B'Av in 1914 when Germany declared war on Russia. German resentment from the war set the stage for the Holocaust.
3.On the eve of Tisha B'Av 1942, the mass deportation began of Jews from the Warsaw Ghetto, en route to Treblinka.
So we commemorate by a national period of mourning. We mourn for all of the suffering endured, and we mourn for the suffering that continues. We mourn for the Temple that was destroyed, and for the dis-unity among our people that led to that destruction, and continues to prevent its rebuilding. We mourn the lack of Divine Presence in this world.
At the same time, Tisha B'Av is like a call to arms. How can we make a turn for the better? It all starts with the individual. The individual learns to love his/her neighbor unconditionally, to give them the benefit of the doubt, to help in times of need, to commit deeds of living-kindness. And then you have a whole family acting in this way. And then a whole community. And a whole loving-kindness culture is formed. And that is how we can change the world.
Is it do-able? Absolutely. Is it difficult? Yes it is. It is so easy to do what is instinctual, so easy to say what you think. But to say a kind word (when you don't feel like it), or to lend a hand (when you are running late yourself), or to withhold saying something inappropriate (even though you're right)....that is what will change the course of the world.
All it takes is one individual. And one, and one, and one, and one...So mourn today. And tomorrow is a brand new day.
Quite simply, Tisha B'Av marks the many occasions the world has attempted to destory the Jewish people.
A few famous mentionables (from this article):
• During the time of Moses, Jews in the desert accepted the slanderous report of the 10 Spies, and the decree was issued forbidding them from entering the Land of Israel. (1312 BCE)
• The First Temple was destroyed by the Babylonians, led by Nebuchadnezzar. 100,000 Jews were slaughtered and millions more exiled. (586 BCE)
• The Second Temple was destroyed by the Romans, led by Titus. Some two million Jews died, and another one million were exiled. (70 CE)
• The Bar Kochba revolt was crushed by Roman Emperor Hadrian. The city of Betar -- the Jews' last stand against the Romans -- was captured and liquidated. Over 100,000 Jews were slaughtered. (135 CE)
• The Temple area and its surroundings were plowed under by the Roman general Turnus Rufus. Jerusalem was rebuilt as a pagan city -- renamed Aelia Capitolina -- and access was forbidden to Jews.
More modern events:
1.The Spanish Inquisition culminated with the expulsion of Jews from Spain on Tisha B'Av in 1492.
2.World War One broke out on the eve of Tisha B'Av in 1914 when Germany declared war on Russia. German resentment from the war set the stage for the Holocaust.
3.On the eve of Tisha B'Av 1942, the mass deportation began of Jews from the Warsaw Ghetto, en route to Treblinka.
So we commemorate by a national period of mourning. We mourn for all of the suffering endured, and we mourn for the suffering that continues. We mourn for the Temple that was destroyed, and for the dis-unity among our people that led to that destruction, and continues to prevent its rebuilding. We mourn the lack of Divine Presence in this world.
At the same time, Tisha B'Av is like a call to arms. How can we make a turn for the better? It all starts with the individual. The individual learns to love his/her neighbor unconditionally, to give them the benefit of the doubt, to help in times of need, to commit deeds of living-kindness. And then you have a whole family acting in this way. And then a whole community. And a whole loving-kindness culture is formed. And that is how we can change the world.
Is it do-able? Absolutely. Is it difficult? Yes it is. It is so easy to do what is instinctual, so easy to say what you think. But to say a kind word (when you don't feel like it), or to lend a hand (when you are running late yourself), or to withhold saying something inappropriate (even though you're right)....that is what will change the course of the world.
All it takes is one individual. And one, and one, and one, and one...So mourn today. And tomorrow is a brand new day.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
The High Holidays are here
Yes I know that we have already done 2/3 of the holidays this month, but I am telling you....the Thanksgiving/Christmas season has NOTHING on this month of Jewish holidays. Next year, maybe I will hire an event coordinator for me because I am in serious meal/invitation management mode. No joke - there are scheduling templates out there to manage all of the meals, including the menu and the guests (with space for candlelighting and reminders).
For several years now, it feels as though the holidays are really all about the food. The schedule is about the food. The big buzz is who is going where. You have to take into consideration the weather and where guests will be shlepping from, not to mention where they are going after the meal (as in, do they live far from you? nearby?). You have to factor in kids (nap schedules, number of kids you can handle at one time, picky eaters). You have to have a nice balance of marrieds & singles, kids & no kids, older & younger. You need to know who gets along with whom.
Thanksgiving is one giant fest about turkey. Christmas is a lovely holiday of which many wonderful movies are made. But they don't hold a candle to the craziness I am experiencing right now.
(of course, I am saying nothing about the weekly Shabbat meal schedule.)
So at the end of the (holi)day, I am exhausted from entertaining. I actually enjoy the entertaining part, but the whole management of it tires me out. And I am bummed that I don't get to enjoy the holiday for what it is, the spirituality of it, the meaning of it. I suppose that means that I am doing something wrong, and I try to be better about it (like, selecting easy recipes or obvious winners instead of something new and complicated) with every holiday, but dude I don't have time. It's time to plan for Shabbat...
For several years now, it feels as though the holidays are really all about the food. The schedule is about the food. The big buzz is who is going where. You have to take into consideration the weather and where guests will be shlepping from, not to mention where they are going after the meal (as in, do they live far from you? nearby?). You have to factor in kids (nap schedules, number of kids you can handle at one time, picky eaters). You have to have a nice balance of marrieds & singles, kids & no kids, older & younger. You need to know who gets along with whom.
Thanksgiving is one giant fest about turkey. Christmas is a lovely holiday of which many wonderful movies are made. But they don't hold a candle to the craziness I am experiencing right now.
(of course, I am saying nothing about the weekly Shabbat meal schedule.)
So at the end of the (holi)day, I am exhausted from entertaining. I actually enjoy the entertaining part, but the whole management of it tires me out. And I am bummed that I don't get to enjoy the holiday for what it is, the spirituality of it, the meaning of it. I suppose that means that I am doing something wrong, and I try to be better about it (like, selecting easy recipes or obvious winners instead of something new and complicated) with every holiday, but dude I don't have time. It's time to plan for Shabbat...
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Gratitude: How quickly we forget
Tonight I attended a learning event where Lori Palatnick gave the keynote address. One of the takeaways from her speech was that gratitude is the foundation of our spiritual well-being.
Gratitude - such a simple little thing. All it is, is the ability to say "thank you". Two little words. Thank you.
I learned about this concept in a book called Praying with Fire, where the author wrote the book in a format where there is a little golden nugget to learn each day that should infuse one's praying with greater spirituality, meaning, etc. One of the golden nuggets is that one can express gratitude every day for any item/event/happenstance that may occur that day and express gratitude at that time, and not wait for a specific time to pray. So, for instance, if one is running late to a meeting and manages to drive through a green light, one can be grateful for that and say, "Thank you G-d for this green light - this really helps my day!" Or, that night's experimental dinner came out exceptionally tasty: "Thank you G-d for this tasty dinner - thanks for not having to resort to PB&J for dinner!" By thanking G-d for these little, "insignificant" things, we bring to the forefront just how involved G-d is in our daily lives, every minute detail that transpires. Not only are we grateful to Hashem for the major things in life (health, financial stability, children, life partners, family, friends, etc), but we are also grateful for all of the "minor" things that make our life possible. This concept was my major takeaway from this book and since then I have incorporated thanking Hashem daily for the smallest things (thank you Hashem for finding me this close parking space, thank you Hashem for the laundry that didn't shrink, thank you Hashem for giving me a coupon for this item, etc).
This concept was brought to earth for me, in a different way, by a special family that used to live in St. Louis. I had many Shabbat meals with them, and their Shabbat dinners, especially in the summertime, would last a long time. It was not unheard of for me to come home around midnight. Part of what took so long was this amazing custom that they had. They regularly had 20+ guests at their home, from all walks of life, and between the fish course and the soup course, everyone went around the table saying what they were grateful for in that week, with a l'chaim after each person. The introduction was always by the wife and she went first, and we went all around the table and ended with her husband. Anything was fair game, nothing was "insignificant". So, one could be grateful for having a roof over their head, another grateful for their spouse, and another grateful for a successful sales meeting they had that week. One person could be grateful that their favorite brand of socks was on sale that week, and another person grateful for just a quiet week and nothing unusual. Some guests had a long list, and some had a short list. Typically, I would have tears in my eyes by the end of the whole thing, just thinking that we ALL - no matter what happened - have an immensely long list, when it really comes down to it. We are all alive and we are all free. How quickly we forget the amazing things we take for granted just so that we can pursue the normal life that we want to lead.
So, if you come to my home, either Shabbat dinner or Shabbat lunch, you will experience this custom. I was so moved by it that my husband and I adopted it as our own. We do this with my family, and we do this with friends. We do this with guests who we've never met before.
Gratitude. Just say "thank you".
Gratitude - such a simple little thing. All it is, is the ability to say "thank you". Two little words. Thank you.
I learned about this concept in a book called Praying with Fire, where the author wrote the book in a format where there is a little golden nugget to learn each day that should infuse one's praying with greater spirituality, meaning, etc. One of the golden nuggets is that one can express gratitude every day for any item/event/happenstance that may occur that day and express gratitude at that time, and not wait for a specific time to pray. So, for instance, if one is running late to a meeting and manages to drive through a green light, one can be grateful for that and say, "Thank you G-d for this green light - this really helps my day!" Or, that night's experimental dinner came out exceptionally tasty: "Thank you G-d for this tasty dinner - thanks for not having to resort to PB&J for dinner!" By thanking G-d for these little, "insignificant" things, we bring to the forefront just how involved G-d is in our daily lives, every minute detail that transpires. Not only are we grateful to Hashem for the major things in life (health, financial stability, children, life partners, family, friends, etc), but we are also grateful for all of the "minor" things that make our life possible. This concept was my major takeaway from this book and since then I have incorporated thanking Hashem daily for the smallest things (thank you Hashem for finding me this close parking space, thank you Hashem for the laundry that didn't shrink, thank you Hashem for giving me a coupon for this item, etc).
This concept was brought to earth for me, in a different way, by a special family that used to live in St. Louis. I had many Shabbat meals with them, and their Shabbat dinners, especially in the summertime, would last a long time. It was not unheard of for me to come home around midnight. Part of what took so long was this amazing custom that they had. They regularly had 20+ guests at their home, from all walks of life, and between the fish course and the soup course, everyone went around the table saying what they were grateful for in that week, with a l'chaim after each person. The introduction was always by the wife and she went first, and we went all around the table and ended with her husband. Anything was fair game, nothing was "insignificant". So, one could be grateful for having a roof over their head, another grateful for their spouse, and another grateful for a successful sales meeting they had that week. One person could be grateful that their favorite brand of socks was on sale that week, and another person grateful for just a quiet week and nothing unusual. Some guests had a long list, and some had a short list. Typically, I would have tears in my eyes by the end of the whole thing, just thinking that we ALL - no matter what happened - have an immensely long list, when it really comes down to it. We are all alive and we are all free. How quickly we forget the amazing things we take for granted just so that we can pursue the normal life that we want to lead.
So, if you come to my home, either Shabbat dinner or Shabbat lunch, you will experience this custom. I was so moved by it that my husband and I adopted it as our own. We do this with my family, and we do this with friends. We do this with guests who we've never met before.
Gratitude. Just say "thank you".
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