The Universe Sent Me a Shabbat Message
My daughter graduated from high school Saturday. The weather changed from cold and rainy to a sunny 80 degree day. The plague of cicadas awaited for 17 years and due to arrive by now were yet to emerge from the ground.
For the Sake of a Namesake: L'dor v'dor
A few months ago, during an informal visit in my apartment from my parents, my sister and my nephew Ian, I was stretched out on the living room floor and Ian, as five-year-olds are want to do, was walking on my back and climbing all over me.
The Remarkable Growth of Reform Judaism in Spain
I have been going to Spain every year since 2008 in order to help Bet Shalom in Barcelona, a small nascent Reform congregation, with its programs and religious services.
Visiting Rhode Island's Historic Synagogue
Reflecting on the Status of Civil Liberties, 12 Years After 9/11
Yom Kippur and Depression
It happens that this year the Days of Awe align with Suicide Prevention Week.
Can Vilnius Remember Vilna?
Vilna, Lithuania. Once, this city with its narrow, twisting lanes was renowned as the Jerusalem of the North, a flourishing center of Jewish culture.
Standing Idly By as Our Neighbors Bleed
Like many Massachusetts families, the Boston Marathon is very much part of my family’s lives. Every year we gather to watch, volunteer, or run, as my wife and I did in 2008. Drawing thousands of diverse souls from all over the world, the event represents the best of American civil society.
The Torah In Haiku: Yom Kippur Reflection
What was your fast like?
Did you think "I'm so hungry?"
Or, "How will I change?"
From the Yom Kippur morning haftarah reading (Isaiah 58):
Galilee Diary: Round and Round
On the fifteenth day of the seventh month there shall be the Feast of Sukkot to the Lord, seven days. The first day shall be a sacred occasion: you shall not work oat your occupations; seven days you shall bring offerings by fire to the Lord.