Words with Merle

  Where do we go from here? That is the question I am receiving each day. First and foremost, never lose hope. Then, find an organization that supports Israel and donate. If you are non-Jewish, reach out to your Jewish friends to connect and find ways to offers support. Our very fiber of humanity is kindness in connection.   How do we as Jewish Americans move forward? I must lament the criticality to never stop sharing of the war, remaining aware of the tragedies, and while rigorous, never stop living your daily life. The enemy thrive when we freeze, but we cannot permit the monsters of their ecstasy. Celebrate Judaism triumphantly each moment and embrace our Judaic joy during war. This is our power to survival.   And while we hold strong, lest the war plummets at our hearts. A turbulence of feeling helpless given the distance. An emotion I understand as my heart weeps for each child and adult murdered ever so barbarically. My brain can only muster so much yet I rem...

This past week we faced an unfathomable reality. The situation happening in Israel is complex. Our hearts are in the West while we remain in the East, trying to comprehend the inhumane destruction of our people. We sit here in confusion, sadness, anger, and some may feel hopeless.  While I always allude to hope and prayers, today, your voice and support for Israel is paramount. Education fosters understanding and counters hate, so join me in continuing to educate the community and beyond. With an open-mind and an open heart, individuals will appreciate fact-based sentiments…the very principles that perpetuate kindness, equality and connection. Talk to your friends, family and neighbors, and remember, silence is the opposite of advocacy. Silence speaks volumes and amplifies the acts of hatred against Israel and the Jewish people. The Jewish community depends on the support of our non-Jewish allies to help us stand up against hate impacting Jews in America, Israel and around the worl...

Judaism, one of the world's oldest religions, is a system of beliefs, rituals, and a profound philosophy emphasizing self-improvement and our connection with the universe.       Rooted in ancient teachings, Judaism offers a unique perspective on personal growth, ethical conduct, and the inter-connectedness of all living beings.             Central to the Jewish faith is "Tikkun Olam," which translates to "repairing the world."         This powerful idea reflects the belief that everyone is responsible for improving, for some are guilty, but all are responsible.       Judaism teaches that by working on our character flaws, developing virtues, and doing what we know is right, we can actively participate in improving the world.       And what better time than the Jewish New Year?       Judaism encourages a contin...

  Like any form of artistic expression, Jewish art can profoundly impact kindness and compassion within individuals and communities. The Jewish artistic tradition spans thousands of years and encompasses various mediums such as literature, music, visual arts, and performing arts. These artworks often carry themes and messages emphasizing the importance of kindness, empathy, and ethical behavior, drawing inspiration from Jewish teachings and values. Art is a magical gift. Through art, so much is possible. Art in my world is derived from multiple mediums, from listening to classical music to singing, dancing, and, when possible, watching a theater performance or admiring masterpieces at the museum. Art is everywhere, even the very colors of our earth’s landscape. As a Rabbi, people often seek my guidance, and I usually advise, “Listen to music, sing songs to soothe your soul. When you hear melodies, join in the dancing!” While talking is a therapeutic resource, arts can reach a...

  Moving is a part of life. We move from day one as we are welcomed into this world. We move as we reach new life milestones and academic journeys and as we encounter career paths and destinations. Life as we know it is a continuum of moving. As one can relate, part of moving requires packing our life into boxes, reflecting the passing of time and the promise of growth.   As a chapter closes, your heart and emotions are intermixed with joy, hope, and sadness, finding ways to relish the precious assets of time. My words may send buoyant memories to your heart as you recall the moves in your life journey, hoping to build new connections and friendships and settle into a new community. In 2023, settling into a new community was an achievement at my age. A life stage only possible with the support of my family and work associates, helping me find ease and calm in my new quarters set to establish new memories while holding close to the past. As my family and I packed up my ...

  Rabbi Menachem Mendel Morgenstern, the founder of the Ger Dynasty, the Polish Hassidic spiritual practice, is part of my legacy as I am a direct descendant of Rabbi Morgenstern, perhaps the stepping stone of my Rabbinical path.   Morgenstern once said, “ There is nothing more complete than a broken heart,” and how true that remains. Through the cracks of a heart becomes our platform to broaden our wisdom, personal growth, and revere in life’s imperfections. When faced with hardship, our broken pieces become our most valued assets as they resemble our strength and mobility to repair in the wholeness of life’s imperfections.  And with that, the month of May comes as a reminder to treasure the broken pieces as they ultimately become the holiest gift giving us the strength to thrive and strive. As we all know too well, the days are lengthy, yet the years blink by. And so, a year has come and gone since the loss of Myra, and while many could look back with sadness, the rearv...