Related Blog Posts on Divorce, Jewish Rituals and Symbols, and Lifecycle Rituals
Six Symbols to Showcase Jewish Pride
In a world where identity and culture are increasingly celebrated, wearing symbols of one's heritage has become a powerful way to express pride and connection. For Jews, wearing Jewish symbols in the face of rising antisemitism and hostility can be particularly meaningful.
Becoming B’nei Mitzvah at Any Age
Terms like "bar mitzvah," "bet mitzvah," and "bat mitzvah" typically evoke images of teens reading from the Torah and formally taking their place within the Jewish community. But many Reform congregations offer adult b'nei mitzvah classes, enabling people to participate in this ritual later in life.
Welcoming Baby
A brand-new baby is an astonishing being! How a tiny human could emerge from a mere bundle of cells, and the simple fact that any human being exists earthside, is truly remarkable.
What Message Does the Mezuzah Have Right Now?
The Heller Museum invited leading contemporary artists to conceive innovative designs for a mezuzah. Seventeen artists imaginatively reenvisioned this traditional Jewish ceremonial object.
Experiencing a Divorce? You are not Alone
Starting from the Torah we see that divorce is acceptable in Judaism, that not all marriages are meant to last, and that one or both individuals in the couple have their reasons.
Being the “Jewish Influencer” in My Family
Being the Jewish part of an interfaith family isn't without its challenges. Especially when, like me, being the Jewish influence in my family is because I converted after I was married.
Winterfaith
"Winterfaith" seems a much more apt description for me than "interfaith." We're not observing two religions; I was raised Jewish, and my partner was not. The winter holidays are when our "interfaith" background proves to be the most challenging.
My Father’s Tallit
As a child snoop, I was well acquainted with the contents of my parents’ dresser drawers. This came in handy often, like the night before a trip when my mom panicked because she couldn’t find her passport.
Making a Jewish Ritual for my Divorce
In the weeks leading up to my civil divorce, I delved into Jewish tradition to see how I could mark it Jewishly. I'd been married under a chuppah with the exquisite blessings of our tradition; simply marking my divorce in the Cook County courthouse was not going to suffice.
You’re Invited to Remember
Growing up, I saw Yizkor as a mysterious event on Yom Kippur afternoon. The grownups would return to temple in the afternoon, while my sister and I stayed home. There was no explanation, just an understanding that this was a thing our parents and grandparents did, and we did not.