Galilee Diary: Such a winter's day
The Roots of Shabbat
According to traditional Jewish belief, the Sabbath has its origin in God’s divine command to observe the seventh day as a day of rest and sanctification.
Upon Meeting Israel
Israel was that man that my parents were trying to set me up with for years that I’ve been avoiding planning a date with.
Israel is that friend that I always wanted to meet but we always seemed to move in different social circles.
Choreography in Holy Time
When my son was born, I cradled him against my heart, arms wrapped gently yet surely around his small and fragile body.
My First Trip To Israel
In Jerusalem, Tu BiShvat Offers a Welcome Respite from Winter
Coming a month and a half before the spring equinox and two months before Passover, Tu BiShvat provides a glimmer of springtime at a time when winter can often be at its cruelest.
Moses’ Song of the Sea: Singing for My Mother
My mother died on Shabbat Shirah, the Sabbath when Moses and the children of Israel sang while Miriam the Prophet led everyone in dance after crossing the sea to freedom.
What Tu BiShvat and Sam the Pickle Man Have in Common
Even though “Crossing Delancy’s” Sam the Pickle Man and Tu BiShvat both are somewhat predictable, they also are filled with wisdom, poetry, hope, and faith.
What College Has Taught Me About the Power of Shabbat
Growing up, my family didn’t usually celebrate Shabbat at home. Only when I went away to college did Shabbat become truly meaningful.
This Tu BiShvat, May We Begin with the Trees
May each of us, at this Tu BiShvat – the New Year of the Trees – refuse to be complacent in accepting the ills and sorrows of our lives.