A Tribute to Debbie Friedman, Who Helped Me Understand and Love Judaism
Editor's Note: This piece was originally published on January 13, 2011, immedately following the death of beloved Jewish musician Debbie Friedman, z"l. How did Debbie Friedman's music impact your life?
Shimon Peres on the Futility of War
After the recent passing of Israeli President Shimon Peres, z"l, I'm remembering the time I sat down with him in a Manhattan midtown hotel in 1994 at the beginning of the Oslo process to discuss the peace process.
What Is It About Israel?
It was a straightforward question, spoken in a tone that was casual but knowing: “Did it change you?” he asked us.
Thinking About Science, Judaism, Time Machines
Until a few days ago, I had never thought about building a time machine. I had never thought about flying a drone. I had never thought about editing files (other than Word Documents or Excel spreadsheets) in the guts of a computer. Now, I’m thinking about all of those things.
Are Anti-Abortion Laws Un-Jewish?
Last month, the governor of Louisiana signed a bill that will close three of the state’s five abortion facilities. Several days later, the only medical provider offering abortion care in northern Alabama shut down. And by September, Texas is expected to have only six abortion clinics.
On Tishah B'Av, Turning Remembrance Into Action
Tishah B'Av in a Time of Rockets, Tunnels, and Death
As I watched Israel's Iron Dome intercept a Hamas rocket, I began to get some insight into why we mourn on the Ninth of Av.
The People of Israel Are Living
Monday felt like the longest day of my life. Maybe it was, actually. Monday was two days for the price of one, thanks to 18 hours of travel time.
Standing With Israel: My Experience at a Solidarity Rally
The gathering in 1986 in Dag Hammaarskjold Plaza is still firmly etched in my memory.
President Rivlin and Reform: Drawing Closer, Despite Differences
I hadn’t planned on spending three days in Israel last week, but with Hamas’s war against the people of Israel, I knew I had to be there.