What My Parents' Deaths Taught Me About Family
My mom died on January 24 at the age of 94. Eight weeks, later my dad died. He was 95. They had just celebrated their 73rd anniversary.
My brother the doctor said the cause of my dad’s death was a “medical mystery.” I claim that he died because he willed himself to do so.
How Tots Helped Our Small Congregation Grow
The Scheidt Seminar: Learning and Bonding With My Peers
After two years as executive vice president of Temple Sinai of Roslyn, I am about to become president of this sacred place that is my home away from home. Thanks to the work of the incredible leaders in whose footsteps I follow, our membership numbers are growing and our programs are thriving – all evidence that a brick-and-mortar religious institution still matters in a digital world.
5 Life Lessons from Jewish Camp Counselors
Shabbat, Teen-Style
I sometimes think that my teenagers have a more demanding schedule than I do. They are in the classroom for eight hours every day, and spend their afternoons filled with multiple extracurricular activities, homework, and managing the numerous pressures and challenges of being a teenager.
Support Legislation to End Discrimination in Adoption
Together in Israel: Reimagining the Congregational Israel Trip
Can Mah Jongg Promote Pluralism in Israel?
Recently, I coordinated the third annual Mah Jongg tournament here in Modi’in, Israel, where I live. The event was sponsored by the Modi’in Mahj Mavens, the group of six women with whom I play weekly, and ESRA, the English Speaking Residents’ Association, which provides activities throughout our country to help English speakers integrate into Israeli life.
Six Rabbis Look Back At Themselves 25 Years Later
Twenty-five years ago, I interviewed six rabbinic students at the New York campus of the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion "to find out what's on the minds of our future spiritual leaders." Recently, the Union for Reform
Taking Israel's "Sandwich Police" to Task
Israelis are used to being asked to open up their bags and backpacks for inspection almost wherever they go. When entering supermarkets, malls, bus stations. You name it.