As we approach the month of Elul we traditionally get ready to search our hearts and to turn to our G-d. When we look at the word "Elul," it is similar to the root of the verb "search" in Aramaic. The Rabbis usually connect "Elul" to the idea of searching our hearts and preparing ourselves … Continue reading The Search by Diana Levine
Have you heard the term "hiddur mitzvah"? It means Beautify or Enhance the Mitzvah - we should go above and beyond as we seek to fulfill a commandment of G-d. That is why we have such gorgeous objects in our synagogues and homes that we use to fulfill G-d's commandments surrounding our observance. The sages' … Continue reading Hiddur Mitzvah
Last week, a friend posted the link to an interview with Rachel Denhollander, the first to come forward with her story of abuse by Larry Nassar, the USA Gymnastics team doctor convicted of seven counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct who was sentenced just recently. Her interview sheds light on a problem that plagues the … Continue reading The Least of These
Good morning, my dear, sweet sisters. I want to start by saying that I am so grateful to be in these times and seasons with you all. The fall is quickly approaching, although you wouldn’t know it here in Skokie, IL. It's unusually warm this week. I find myself longingly looking at my sweaters and … Continue reading In the Chaos by Hannah Zaretsky
“Simchat Torah....Wow, another holiday? Didn’t we just finish the two main ones? Plus, we ate a few meals in our sukkah. We are doing pretty good on the holiday scale – right?” Okay, similar thoughts have probably entered our minds once or twice (or maybe more). During the fall, we practically take up residence at … Continue reading The Torah is Kind of a Big Deal by Hannah Mann
