Erin's Journey to Becoming a Rabbi

An Op-Ed about Anat Hoffman and Women in Judaism

2011-12-23T16:48:00.000-05:00

Op-Ed – “The Leadership of a Jewish Woman in Israel”

Throughout Jewish history, women have had prominent roles varying from strong mothers and wives to leaders of the Jewish people. We can trace the role of women in Judaism all the way back to Biblical times and move forward to present times. Looking back to Sarah, the first of the very strong Jewish women in the Bible, we find a woman who was as much a part of the story in Genesis as Abraham. The Bible presents many more great examples of very strong Jewish women who played great roles in the Jewish story, including Yocheved, Miriam, Deborah, Naomi, Ruth (a Jew by Choice), and Esther. In post-Biblical times, in the time of the Talmud, there were few women named, but those who were named were considered to be of great influence: Bruriah, the wife of Rabbi Meir, Rachel, the wife of Rabbi Akiva, and Yalta, the wife of Rabbi Nachman.

If we fast forward to contemporary times, we find even more examples of strong Jewish women. Examples of these strong Jewish women include Golda Meir, the first female Prime Minister of Israel, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the first Jewish female justice of the Supreme Court, Ruth Messinger, the founder of American Jewish World Service, and Anat Hoffman, the director of the Israel Religious Action Center and Women of the Wall. Anat Hoffman, a strong and inspirational leader in Israel has been the source of many newspaper, magazine and journal articles in the past 15 years or so. Why? Hoffman fights for her belief that Jewish women should have the same rights as Jewish men, including holding and carrying the Torah, the sacred text of the Jewish people. This strong brave woman has been arrested numerous times for attempts to participate in the Jewish tradition to which she feels so strongly connected.

When the 10 Commandments were given to the Children of Israel in Exodus 20, they were given to the entire people – men, women and children. Every member of this group was given the opportunity to accept them and every member responded in the affirmative. While it is true that much of the Bible is written in gendered language, in this section the reference to the Children of Israel is presented as “the people,” not all men or all women. However, in Israel, the far right wing of the Orthodox movement has a vice-like grasp on all religious decisions. As such, women are not allowed to even participate in even the most basic religious practice of carrying the Torah. This is a travesty and Anat Hoffman has been working diligently to change these unfortunate laws.

While attending the Union for Reform Judaism Biennial in Washington, DC this past weekend (December 14-18), I had the honor and privilege of meeting Anat Hoffman. She was extremely gracious and kind. On Saturday morning during Shabbat services, I watched as she ran from her seat in the back of the hall to those who were carrying the Torah. She remarked, “Look there are no police…may I carry the Torah?” Watching Anat take the Torah and carry it around freely and openly made me extremely proud as an American Reform Jewish man. After all, in the United States of America, in the progressive Jewish world, women are allowed – encouraged!- to carry the Torah and participate in Jewish practices. She had a smile that was heart warming and showed how proud she was to be able to carry the Torah amongst 6,000 other Jews who celebrated her for doing so.

Anat Hoffman continues to be an inspiration to Jews throughout the world for her undying devotion to all Jews – making sure that all Jews are accepted, no matter their gender or sect of Judaism. For Hoffman, being Jewish is something more than the labels applied to a person from others. Anat Hoffman believes in equality for all Jews…and I would argue for all peoples around the world.

Thanksgiving...Thanks, but what about the Giving?

2011-11-20T18:47:00.000-05:00

Greetings friends and family!

I have (as you probably already know) become one of the biggest supporters/recruiters/etc. for the American Jewish World Service (AJWS). This is an amazing organization that is led by a truly wonderfully inspiring and righteous woman - Ruth Messinger. Through her efforts and the countless hours of work by the AJWS staff in NY and DC, we are beginning to really see differences made in the world. Countries in the Global South are really starting to benefit from the knowledge and support they are gaining from grass roots organizations that are supported (with small grants) by AJWS.

When you sit around your Thanksgiving table on Thursday, take a moment and think about those who are "table-less," who are homeless and who would like to be able to sit at a table and eat with their friends and families. Take some of your leftovers and donate it to a local soup kitchen or even invite someone who is in need into your home to join with you. On Passover, we are told to open our doors so that everyone has the opportunity to eat...why not do the same on Thanksgiving? After all, on Passover we are thanking God for our deliverance from slavery in Egypt. On Thanksgiving, we are thanking God for all of the wonders in the world - including our freedom. Seems to me that this link is enough to cause us to want to throw our doors open to those who are hungry.

In the congregation where I serve as rabbinic intern, I teach the 5th and 6th grade. This morning, we had Grandparents Day. We invited as many family members who were able to join us for a special program in which we learned about the Hodaah prayer and its link to Thanksgiving. Afterwards, the family members joined us in our classrooms. In the 6th grade, we spoke for a bit about the Mitzvah projects the students would be doing as they prepared for their Bar or Bat Mitzvah ceremony in the upcoming year. In the last few minutes of the class, I charged the students to not stop when their ceremony comes around. I encouraged them to continue working to make life better and more fulfilling for all of us - especially those in our community who are less fortunate.

I encourage you to read this blog by Ilan Caplan of AJWS: Ilan Caplan's AJWS Blog

In his blog, Ilan speaks about many of the things that are so vital and yet so forgotten in our own celebrations surrounding Thanksgiving. When you give thanks this year on Thanksgiving - and every day of your life - take some time to give others something to be thankful for. When we join together and work together, we will be able to create a world in which everyone is able to be thankful for their own bounties. We produce enough food globally to feed everyone...yet, we have millions and millions of people who are starving...this just does NOT make sense! And, can and should do something about it. First step - Say "YES, I will do something....," Second step - Learn how you can, Third Step - DO IT....ACTION!

Here are a couple of websites to begin your education:
www.ajws.org
www.one.org

Every bit helps...

My 5th Year Sermon - on Social Justice

2011-11-06T14:36:00.000-05:00

I learned many lessons from my parents. Chew with your mouth closed; raise your hand if you have a question; turn the lights off when you leave the room; and, the hardest one for me to learn: not to interrupt people. I am still working on that one! However, the one lesson that has always seemed to be the most important, the lesson that I can trace all the way back to Seven Oaks Elementary back in 1981, in Mrs. Peterson’s kindergarten class, was the Golden Rule: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” I have always wondered how one sentence is so hard to learn, then to understand, and finally to enact. When we attempt and are able to understand these words we will then be able to live these words.
Close your eyes for a moment and try to picture a little African child sitting with his family and eating dinner. Try to imagine a little village school in a small African village. I am sure the images you have in your mind and the reality on the ground would not be so different. However, when we ponder these things, it is difficult to visualize the wonderful and beautiful images that are also present, until we are face to face with these images.
Yes, African nations have poverty and other challenges, but in those same nations are human beings attempting to live their lives to the best of their ability. And, for too long now, those of us who live in the Developed World, the Global North, have been telling these developing countries, the Global South, how to succeed. While there are success stories in the Global South, families who are able to make a better life for themselves, more importantly we are also left with a large percentage of the world’s population facing famine, disease and certain death.
In June, as I was traveling with the American Jewish World Service as part of a rabbinical student delegation to Senegal, I thought I knew what to expect. When the plane descended into Dakar, Senegal’s capital city, I began to visualize the images I had in my head of the little African children I had first seen on the cover of the album “We are the World” many years ago. I remembered the first time I thought I understood what Bono of the band U2 was writing about when he wrote “Where the Streets Have No Name.”
I began to worry about how I would respond to what I would see. After all, maybe for the first time in my life, I was going to be faced with a degree of poverty that I had only read about in the news. Sure, I worked in soup kitchens and homeless shelters in the States. I had participated in many hunger walks and food drives. But, this was going to be different. And, from the moment I arrived at the Baggage Claim in the airport, it was different – far different from anything I could have possibly imagined.
As we were waiting for our bags, we met the men who were going to help carry our luggage to the bus. One of the men, a very nice man who spoke English very well, saw that I had some garbage in my hand. He said, “This is Africa, man, just drop it on the ground.” When I responded that I would rather take care of it myself, he said, “Why, this is Africa?” I am not sure even today if he was joking or not. Yes, there was a lot of garbage in many places we went. My first impression of Senegal was not so different than what I had expected. Over the next 11 days, however, my impressions, my feelings, my heart strings and my entire being changed and in many different ways.
“V’Ahavtah Lereiacha Kamocha,” Love your neighbor as yourself, what does this really mean? When we read these words or any words from the Torah, the onus is on us to examine the rabbinic commentaries and dialogue to open up doors to new meanings and understandings of what the words mean. Sifting through these commentaries allows us to continue to learn, examine and even disagree with our texts – but with a greater depth of knowledge to support our thoughts.
The Rashbam, Rabbi Shmuel ben Meir, a French rabbi from the 11th and 12th centuries, presents a commentary on these three words. Rashbam suggests that we should only love our neighbors if they are good and deserving of love. He continues to state that if they are evil, we should not be kind to them. Rashbam relies on Proverbs 9:13, “To fear the Lord is to hate evildoers” to make his point.
In other words, Rashbam’s argument is if someone is acting unfairly to you or your family, we DO NOT automatically love them. Rashbam goes even further in his interpretation not to vilify the neighbors, referencing the neighbors as good people deserving of good treatment. The point is that in order for us to love our neighbors, we must ensure that they are good people who deserve to be loved. If they are evil doers, we are to hate them, and not be kind to them.
Along with the examination of “V’ahavtah”, and you shall love, Rashbam also ponders the meaning of “Reiacha,” “Your Neighbors.” In Hebrew, “Ra” means bad or evil; “Rei” means neighbor. In this wordplay, it appears that Rashbam suggests that the evil, the “ra” refers to our non-Jewish neighbors and the love belongs only to our “reiacha.” The suffix “cha” translates to your, which reflects our Jewish neighbors.
My question this morning is – who are our neighbors? When we say neighbor, are we referring to those who live next door, those that live in our city, our state or our country? What about those that live in other countries around the world? What is our responsibility to those neighbors? If this word play causes you to feel discomfort or does not seem right, GREAT because we then have the opportunity to look to another commentator for another possible conclusion.
Rabbi Akiva, as we are told in the Talmud, believed V’ahavtah Lereiacha Kamocha to be “a great principle of the Torah.” Rabbi David Silverberg, a contemporary Orthodox rabbi, comments that although this principle is key, it does not encapsulate the essence of Torah. After all, we have to consider how we define the word love. When we make mistakes in our lives, we often get upset at ourselves. And, in that moment, I would argue that we do not truly love ourselves. It is vital to learn and discover how to love ourselves and understand what that means before we are able to love our neighbors the same. “When God created man, he was created in the image of God.” When we love ourselves, when we are truly able to love ourselves, we love God. All of this we find in the Torah –The history of humanity – a manual of how to proceed in our lives without dwelling on our past mistakes.
Ramban – Rabbi Moses ben Nachman, Nachmanides – one of our great teachers, who lived in the 12th and 13th centuries, teaches that these three words, “V’Ahavtah Lereiacha Kamocha” are a great overstatement. In fact, he uses another of Rabbi Akiva’s teachings, “Your life takes precedence over the life of your neighbor,” to prove his point. Nachmanides is not telling us not to love our neighbors. He is making a point that I mentioned earlier – we must truly be able to love ourselves – in order to begin loving anyone or anything else. For Nachmanides, there is no distinction between Jews, proselytes, those that leave Judaism and gerim, Jews by choice. We should love each other, everyone, equally. However, if we do not understand how to love ourselves, then it does not matter.
It seems that Rabbi Silverberg and Nachmanides agree with each other in that we must first love ourselves in order to truly love the other, our neighbors. Ramban uses the example of the love from the Book of Samuel, the love that Jonathan had for David. If you recall, David became King Saul’s favorite, even more than his own son Jonathan, which certainly could have led to some jealousy. However, Jonathan had removed all forms of jealousy out of his heart and truly loved David as he loved himself. It is the love Jonathan had for David which is the purest example of loving oneself as one would love God. And if we were all created “B’tzelem Elohim,” in the image of God, than when we love each other, we also love God, and vice versa.
Friends and family, the challenge that we are presented with is clear. Although we may have preconceived notions or stereotypes of the “other” in the world, it is imperative that we step outside of our safe circles and create a world in which every man woman and child is seen as equal. The catch phrase “love your neighbor as yourself” gets tossed around very often, especially in liberal Jewish communities. We say that we want to help all of those who are in need and we even have great programs such as food drives, fundraising campaigns, etc. But, are we really helping? Yes, I believe every effort, no matter how large or small is beneficial for those in need.
HOWEVER, WE MUST DO MORE.
I am not suggesting that each of us should drop everything we are doing and jump on a plane and fly to Senegal or any country in the Global South – the developing world.
What I am challenging each of us is this – do not just do a Mitzvah project. We make the biggest difference when we pay attention. We must look, read and study about how we can make the biggest difference. Although we may think we are helping those who are in need, often times we are doing more harm in the process.
When the catastrophe hit Haiti, one of the first actions our government took was to send rice, tons and tons of rice to Haiti. On paper, this act seemed to be extremely helpful. After all, the Haitians needed food, among other things. However, in Haiti, the rice crop had just begun to be harvested. So, the Haitian farmers were not able to sell what they had grown for their own citizens. In effect, the United States put many farmers out of work in our attempt to help.
Throughout my experiences in Senegal, 3 words from our Torah kept appearing and reappearing in my mind. “V’Ahavtah Lereiacha Kamocha,” You shall love your neighbor as yourself. When we first visited our village, Ker Douda Cisse, I began to understand what it meant to live those words. The people we encountered in the village were so kind and grateful to visit with us; they welcomed us into their homes with open arms. And, truthfully, after only a few hours, we were no longer guests; we were villagers. In our attempts to communicate with them in English and in their native tongue, Wolof, we bonded in such a way that erased all of our differences and the many boundaries that seemed to exist when we first arrived.
I intend to make this ideal a huge part of my rabbinate and the very essence of my being – Treat everyone you meet with the same respect as you want to be treated.
My hope is that each of us will challenge ourselves and those whom we have elected to make the right decisions in the future with regards to aid to those who need it. May we enjoy our Sabbath of rest and peace today, realizing that when Shabbat is over, we have tremendous amounts of work to do to finally accomplish “V’Ahavtah Reiacha Kamocha.” After all, when we do, we will live in the world of Isaiah’s prophecy, “And they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning-hooks. Nation shall not lift up sword against nation; neither shall they learn war any more.”

Kein Yehi Ratzon! May this be God’s will!

My shortest and possibly most important blog!

2011-10-13T11:44:00.000-04:00

Ok, I have stayed quiet for too long. I am so sick of the politics...I am so sick of the mud slinging and the angry and VERY disrespectful banter going back and forth. Democrats, Republicans, Tea Party people, Independents, all of you. Stop it already! The truth is: Our country cannot succeed, CANNOT move forward the way we are currently moving. Something, MANY things are broke. Stop dragging your feet - all of you - and make a change, make many changes. Tax the rich, tax the poor...what difference does it make? All of us are hurting....and enough is enough!

Put on your big people pants and do your darn jobs. Seriously....

A VERY ANGRY AMERICAN!

Ok - I may not have the answers, but there has to be something we can do. The first thing is to shut up, stop the mud slinging and work together. Treat everyone with kindness, work together or get out of the darn sandbox!

V'Achshav, Mah La'asot?

2011-10-09T23:27:00.000-04:00

If you are unable to figure it out - the title of this blog is "And now what do I do?" The Jewish Holy Days of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur and the 10 days in between give Jews the opportunity to look back and reflect on the previous year(s). Truth is that many Jews believe that if they make it through to the Break Fast on Yom Kippur, they have been sealed in the Book of Life and all is good. Well....

It's not so easy. Just because we have made it from one Yom Kippur to the next does not mean we are "in the clear." As a matter of fact, there is so much we can do to not only improve our own lives but also those around the world. Ok, so I will stop being so vague and get to the point. Leviticus 19:18 tells us to love your neighbor as yourself. How do we enact this? Do we go out and start giving money willy nilly to the homeless on the street? Do we donate food to a food bank? Do we sponsor a starving child in the Global South? There are so many options...it is often hardest to figure out how we can help and what exactly we are to do.

We must think, we must learn, we must do everything we can to help those who are in need, wherever they live. Loving your neighbor as yourself does not imply only the neighbors that are in your immediate area. This includes all of our neighbors. As we are becoming more of a global society, it is imperative that we take care of all of those who are in need. Here are some staggering facts:

(1) The food crisis in the Horn of Africa - 12,000,000 people in Somalia and in neighboring Kenya, Ethiopia and Djibouti are suffering from acute food shortages and malnutrition. Tens of thousands have already died.

(2) There is an ongoing worldwide food crisis as prices for basic staple foods are close to or as high as they were during the 2008 crisis.

So, what to do? Well, the first thing to do is to learn, get the facts, pay attention. It is not enough to just read or watch the news. Contact your congressman and senators and find out what we as a country are doing to help those in need - at home and abroad. Write your senators and congressmen. Truth is that these men and women are in place to make a difference based on our voices. If you see a way that you and others can help those in need, make a difference.

Ask the hard questions. Here is an example: What is more efficient and better globally - Paying farmers in the US to grow food and then paying shipping companies to ship them to countries in need (or) Investing our money in the farmers in these countries enabling them to be more self sufficient and saving money all the way around? If you answered (b), you answered correctly. However, currently our country does the opposite. This is ONE way that we can make a difference - by letting our legislators know what we think is important. After all, WE elected them to serve US!

Ok, one last point...I just wanted to give a few places to start. These websites are great places to start for learning what else we can do:
www.one.org
www.ajws.org
www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm
www.house.gov
www.usa.gov/Contact/Elected.shtml

That's right - do not just sit there and wait for another High Holy Days to come by so you can reflect on this year. Get out and make a difference. That way, when you reflect, you'll be able to see the difference you did make.

B'Shalom for now!

Lobbying in Washington, D.C.

2011-09-16T12:49:00.002-04:00

Friends and family - I am writing once again about an issue that is of vital importance to each of us: Global Hunger. When I have discussed this issue with some, I often hear the following: "We have our own problems, our own hungry." I am not denying that. It is awfully true that there are many, many Americans who live in poverty. We need to do everything we can as humans to help them out. But, recognizing that the United States has limited funds - especially in our current financial situation - we CANNOT ignore the rest of the world. If you are wondering why it is our responsibility to help, that's simple. As the richest (or one of at least) the nation in the world, we are charged with helping out those who are in need, here on our own soil, and everywhere.

Last night, I attended a Cincinnati Reds game. It also happened to be "Hispanic Heritage Night." What this meant was that there were Spanish songs played in the stadium and some of the announcements were made in Spanish. Why am I telling you this? Well, there was a man a few rows in front of me that brought several American flags to the game, and each time the Hispanic announcer would speak or when a song was played in Spanish, the man would stand up, raise his American flag and either scream "God Bless America" or some derogatory comment about the cultures we were celebrating. One of his comments, "Go back across the border" really upset me. After all, the United States is a melting pot. EVERY person that lives in this country (with the exception of Native Americans of course) came from a different country.

I have also heard the following from people - "When my ancestors came to America, we were forced to learn the language and get jobs to survive." That is true, when my family came to this country, they had to learn English to survive. But, the America today is VERY different from the America back then. It is important that we recognize that those who come to the United States are looking for better lives - the same reasons our ancestors came here. If you want to make a difference, speak to those we have elected to make laws!

Last weekend, I traveled with AJWS to Washington, DC to lobby both of the Ohio Senators not to cut the food aid that the US supplies to those in the world who are starving. Tens of thousands of people who live in Northeast Africa, in the Horn of Africa, have already died. As a Jewish person, as an American, and as a human, I realize that I am charged/challenged by God to help those in need. It is not just about money. If that man I observed last night took some time to actually learn about what is going on in the world, he would (I hope) recognize how lucky we are to live in the United States. But, it is more than just luck. We have a responsibility to all humans, not just Americans.

On November 4-5, I will be hosting a "Global Hunger Shabbat" dinner at my home. During this dinner, I hope to share stories of my experiences in Senegal as well as my trip to Washington. I hope to be able to hear thoughts and stories of those who will be in attendance. The most important thing we can do is simple - DO NOT DO NOTHING, DO SOMETHING. Learn, read, seek out information. Polls show that most Americans believe the US spends 25% of its budget on foreign aid. These same Americans want to lower this number to 10%. TRUTH - The United States spends less than 1% of its budget on foreign aid. Can you imagine how much of a difference the United States would make if we spent 10% of our budget on foreign aid?

I am not asking or even suggesting that the US should increase its foreign aid to 10%. What I am asking is that a)the US does not cut any of its aid and b)when the 2012 Farm Bill comes up, that Congress and the Senate work together to reform the current ways we give aid. For example, rather than paying an American company/farmer to grow extra food to be sent as aid, let's invest the money in foreign countries and allow them to become more self sufficient. We would save tremendous amount of money - we would not have to pay the shipping costs to get the aid from us to them. This is only one way.

Here it is - do something, get out there and learn. If you want to learn more about AJWS or about the Global Hunger Shabbat, please check out one of these sites:
http://www.ajws.org
http://ajws.org/hunger/ghs/

Also, to read about the trip to Washington, DC:
http://ajws.org/who_we_are/news/archives/press_releases/ajws_brings_jewish_communal.html

Until next time...
Erin

September 11 - 10 years ago

2011-09-10T23:31:00.002-04:00

"Erin, Get up....you need to see this."
"Batya, it's 6:45 on my day off, come on, let me sleep."
"Erin, GET UP - Come Here NOW!!"

It was September 11, 2001 and I was supposed to celebrate my 1 year anniversary with Enterprise Rent-A-Car by sleeping in, going for lunch with Batya after school and just relaxing. But, at 6:46 am (Arizona Time - 8:46 EST), I was woken up by Batya and immediately glued to the television. When the second plane struck the second tower 17 minutes later, I was a ball of tears. So many thoughts were going through my mind.

"Oh my God, Jason is supposed to be in NYC for an interview. How close is he to the Twin Towers?"

"Bekki - where is she and why can't I get through to her on the phone?"

"I have to call Mom and see if she has heard anything..."

I remember my Dad telling me that he knew exactly where he was when JFK was shot. I remember exactly where I was when the Challenger blew up. But, this was different. There were terrorist attacks happening on our soil, in the United States - the place that was a safe haven on Earth for anyone who sought it. That day and the several days that followed - I can remember every detail, where I was, what I was doing.

Working for the airport location of Enterprise Rent-A-Car was very challenging. We were immediately instructed to rent vehicles one way (something that ERAC did NOT do at the time) for anyone who needed to get home. There was a sense of real family that week. We were all Americans...and we were all hurting. We still hurt today as we remember the men and women who lost their lives; and the children....the children.

"Where were you when the world stop turning on that September day..." Alan Jackson's words were so apropos and so, so heartfelt. Remember, remember, do NOT forget. That day - did anything else matter? Pictures of the towers falling to the ground, the video....seeing NY'ers running for their lives from the debris. The heroes - the firemen, policemen, etc. all of those that helped that joined in to rescue or find bodies.

"Where is my sister, where is my brother? Why can't I get through? My God, what if something has happened to them?" The thoughts stayed with me until I finally spoke to Mom around 10:30 am - almost 4 hours after I began to worry and wonder. I just could not take my eyes away from the images on the television. To this day, the sounds I heard haunt me...

It has been 10 years since that horrible day. The United States of America is still recovering, but we are STILL HERE. No matter if you are a Packer from Green Bay or a Peach from Georgia - we are still here. To quote one of my favorite bands:

"...And you never did think that
it ever would happen again
In America, did you?
You never did think that
we'd ever get together again
Well we damn sure fooled you

We're walking real proud and
we're talking real loud again in America
You never did think that
it ever would happen again

From the sound up in Long Island
out to San Francisco Bay
And every thing that's
in between them is our home
And we may have done a little
bit of fighting amongst ourselves
but you outside people best leave us alone

Cause we'll all stick together
and you can take that to the bank
That's the cowboys and the hippies
and the rebels and the yanks
You just go and lay your head
on a Pittsburgh Steeler fan
and I think you're gonna finally understand..."

When you wake up on September 11, 2011...take a few moments to think about the freedom we have. Appreciate what it means to be an American. Say hello to a stranger, tell someone you love them, and most importantly - Remember.

"Cause I'm proud to be an American...where at least I know I'm free. And I won't forget the men who died, who gave that right to me..."

God Bless America!

Famine in the Horn of Africa

2011-09-09T16:32:00.002-04:00

Greetings friends and family!

My experiences in Senegal this summer have continued to have a tremendous effect on me as a Jew and as a human. I am constantly reminded of Leviticus 19:18: V'ahvatah Lereiacha Kamocha - "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." What does that mean? I think that one of the most difficult concepts for humans to grasp is to understand and really know what love means. Nachmanides, a medieval Jewish rabbi, taught that in order for a person to truly love his neighbor, he had to understand how to love himself first. That's it. We must learn and develop ways of understanding how we are to love ourselves.

This may seem like such an easy idea...but it is not. If you take a minute to think about all of the things you do in your daily life, you might be surprised at how many of these things harm you. I am constantly reminded by the organizations I pay attention to and by the news agencies of the millions of people around the world who have no idea what it means to love themselves. All you have to do is look at the food crisis, the famine that is going on in Africa today. The United States government (and many other Global North governments) are struggling to figure out how to offset this famine - by money, food, resources, etc.

Where do we start? The first thing is to be aware. Pay attention; read the news; watch the news; read a blog. Whatever it takes. Get out there and just read and watch. It is impossible to miss - we find this "food crisis" in our own back yards. The answer, to quote Bob Dylan is "blowing in the wind." It's out there...and we need to work together to make it happen. Throwing money at the problem is not the answer. Ignoring the problem is not the answer. And, COMPLETELY CUTTING FUNDING AND RESOURCES is NOT the answer.

If you want to learn more about the food crisis and really are interested in helping, check out the following sites:

http://www.ajws.org
http://act.one.org/sign/horn_of_africa_us/?source=horncrisistafem

Take this as a challenge to get out there and so something. Donate money to AJWS, either through my fundraising efforts (http://action.ajws.org/site/TR?pg=fund&fr_id=1110&pxfid=4010) or directly through their website. Let's stop ignoring the problem and make a difference together.

I know, I know, we have problems of our own in our country. It's true...but that does NOT mean we can ignore everyone else.

R + A + B + B +....

2011-08-25T09:36:00.002-04:00

There you have it. Four years of rabbinical school completed, four letters earned (7 if you include my MHL - Masters in Hebrew Letters), and one thesis and a couple of classes left to go. Reality is beginning to set in and it is kind of overwhelming. This semester - my last full academic semester - looks like this:

Monday - 9:20 - 10:35 - Senior Seminar (where we learn all of the practical things we have not yet learned about being a rabbi and clergy)

Tuesday - 9:20 - 10:35 - Adult Education class

Wednesday - 9:20 - 10:35 - Senior Seminar
11:35 - 12:50 - Intro to Guitar

Thursday - 9:20 - 10:35 - Adult Education class

Of course, I am also writing my thesis and driving to The Temple in Louisville on Wednesdays and Sundays for teaching/internship responsibilities. This year will fly by, I am sure. I have already begun to look through various Jewish job websites, looking to see what is out there. I believe that as long as I keep my options fairly open, I should be able to find a job that will make me happy while maintaining Shalom Bayit - Peace in my home!

As the year goes along, with every blog, I would like to share one memory I have had that has shaped who I am today. I would like to turn back the hands of time to my first night as a rabbinic student - in June, 2008. One of my classmates had flown with Batya, Carlie and me from Atlanta to Tel Aviv. We immediately took a cab to our apartment in Jerusalem. My classmate was staying with us for a week while he found his own apartment. Batya and I put Carlie to bed as best we could - she was pretty exhausted.

My classmate and I decided to roam around a bit and I was going to try to see what I could remember from my previous visit to Israel - 7 years prior. Well, as could be expected I did not remember much, and we were lost almost immediately. We did see some pretty interesting things and I did find a couple of shops that I had frequented in Israel 7 years before. I remember thinking, "This year is going to be full of challenges, great memories, and tremendous learning." I could not have been more right. Although it was only one year, I learned more about myself and my family than I could have if we had stayed in the States for that year. Looking back and reading through my old blog posts reminds me how much I learned and how those memories really helped to shape who I am today.

The last 4 + years at HUC have not always been full of sunshine, but I have learned so much and am so grateful to HUC and those who have come into my life for helping me get to today. Of course, the two most important people in this group are Batya and Carlie - my girls, my lights. Without them and their support, who knows where I would be today!

Until next time,
B'Shalom,
Erin

Summer in Louisville

2011-08-09T17:32:00.002-04:00

Hello family and friends! What a long time it has been since I blogged. I know, no apologies. Well, let me begin by saying that this summer has brought so many wonderful experiences and opportunities for growth. It may be hard to believe, especially after my work last summer in Clinical Pastoral Education, but I believe I have grown the most this summer as a rabbinic intern at The Temple in Louisville than any summer before! I have had the tremendous opportunity to work with 3 amazing rabbis and a wonderful support and administrative staff. I have helped with life cycle events, taught adult education classes and Torah study, tutored Bar and Bat Mitzvah students, stayed in the homes of congregants and really had the chance to get to know this fantastic Jewish community. One of the aspects of the internship that I am the most proud of was my work with the local rabbis and Lisa Rothstein - the new director of the High School of Jewish Studies. This is a program that targets all Jewish high school students in Louisville. While there are core classes for each grade level, the students are also allowed to choose electives - the opportunity to learn about a variety of Jewish subjects including Jews in sports, the Holocaust, Jewish issues, etc. I am looking forward to seeing just how successful this program will be.

Well, as this summer is ending, that means that my final year in seminary is beginning. It is hard to believe how quickly the last four years flew by. I have truly enjoyed every day at HUC-JIR, and I am looking forward to all of the new experiences and knowledge I will gain in my 5th and final year of study. Of course, I will never really be finished with my studies, but at least in a year or so, I will finally be able to work full time doing what I love to do! As the year rolls along, I will be working on my thesis, learning guitar and trying to figure out a way to find myself in the best job placement for my family! It will be a very fast year, I am sure, and I hope to be able to enjoy it as it happens.

My intention (and I know I have said this before) is to write at least twice a month in this blog over the next 10 months or so. I hope to share with all of you not only the experiences of this year, but I also hope to share some reflections on how my life has changed and how I have changed over the past 4 + years. I would be lying if I said that every day during the past 4 years has been full of rainbows! However, it is true that even during the not so great days, I would still be able to return home to the embrace of my loving wife and loving daughter. I thank God every day for the ability to continue seeking my life's dream while also being able to share it with the most important people in my life!

Until next time...
Erin

A request for help for AJWS and Tostan

2011-08-05T16:04:00.001-04:00

Greetings Friends and Family,

I am writing this email to you after one of the most amazing and eye opening experiences in my life. I had the opportunity to spend 11 days in Senegal, in West Africa, working with an organization named Tostan. Tostan is one of many West African non-government organizations that the American Jewish World Service supports, financially and in many other ways. Tostan works with villages and communities in West Africa to educate and bring about positive change. To learn more about Tostan, please visit their website: www.Tostan.org . Tostan really does so much with these villages, including helping to end Female Genital Cutting and Young Marriages.

While in Senegal, we visited a village - Keur Douda Cisse - and helped them to build a school and begin construction on a garden. We spent a week getting to know the members of the village, spending time with them in their homes and playing with the children. While it was a lot of fun, these experiences were also meant to open my eyes to the lives and situations of those living in the Global South - the developing world. There are so many stories to tell, and I really hope to be able to share them with as many of my friends and family as possible.

There is a lot of possibility in these communities and it is vital that we begin to learn about the history of these countries and how we can, as one Globe, come together to eradicate poverty and everything else that negates the basic human rights that everyone in our world should be able to enjoy.

It is so important that we support AJWS and these other organizations. It does NOT matter how much one is able to donate...every dollar helps and every dollar counts. Please feel free to check out the AJWS website: ajws.org for more information. And, please join me in supporting the programs of AJWS.

Thank you in advance for your consideration,
Erin Boxt

Click here to view the Fundraising Page for Erin Boxt's AJWS Fundraising Page
If the text above does not appear as a clickable link, you can visit the web address:
http://action.ajws.org/site/TR?pxfid=4010&fr_id=1110&pg=fund&et=q_GlTiYPrKWBP0Naf4fwCQ..&s_tafId=1220

If you no longer wish to receive email messages sent from your friends on behalf of this organization, please click here or paste this URL into your browser: http://action.ajws.org/site/TellFriendOpt?action=optout&toe=69361aa772658cdb0a2df5f30754384cebcbc7435140ece1

My Experiences in Senegal!

2011-08-05T15:58:00.000-04:00

One of the first text messages I received when I arrived back in the United States asked me “how was your trip to Senegal?” Rather than respond over text, I called my friend and suggested we go out for coffee and talk about it. The truth is that although I am supposed to come up with an “elevator response” to that question, I am pretty sure that it would be too difficult for me right now. I have so many thoughts and feelings that I am constantly thinking about – and so many reflections to work through. Yes, the trip to Senegal was an amazing, eye opening and in many ways a spiritual experience. With a group of 17 other rabbinical students and Jewish professionals, I was able spend about four to five hours a day for a little over a week in a small village outside of Thies, Senegal: Keur Douda Cisse. When we arrived on the first day, we were welcomed with song, dance and one of the warmest welcomes I have ever experienced. Any feelings of reluctance I had were immediately swept away with the overwhelming feeling of “home.” After this wonderful welcoming ceremony, we were all given names. From that point on, I became Assan Torrei. I even began introducing myself as such – and the members of the village only knew me as Assan Torrei…something that just felt natural.

In the afternoons, we studied many texts, including Talmudic and Midrashic texts. We spent quite a lot of time learning about how the Global North (formerly the 1st World developed countries) and the Global South (formerly the 3rd World developing countries) were alike and different. We studied Jewish texts that related to the Jewish responsibility to other Jews and non-Jews. I learned so much about the roots and causes of poverty and I really began to think about the responsibilities that each of us have to these impoverished nations. What really began to stick out in my mind (and stays with me even today) were the images and stereotypes I brought with me to Senegal, and how different they were from many of the images I experienced and tried to capture with my camera. I am totally aware that it would be impossible for me to be able to explain everything I experienced and saw…but I hope to have conversations with people that will at least give me the opportunity to learn and teach…and grow with my community.

On the last day of our trip, we went to Goree Island, one of the last stops of the slave trade in Africa. When slaves left Goree Island, they boarded the ships that brought them to those countries that were involved in the 500 + years of the slave trade. Many thoughts rushed through my head as we explored the museum and the slave house. What responsibilities do those of us that live in the Global North have to the Developing World? What have we done to make the matters of life worse for these countries? Should we ask them how we can help or just assume that we know the answers? Clearly, I left Goree Island more confused than I was when I went…and I think that it is important for me to recognize and admit this. Now, I must figure out how I can use these thoughts and images to teach and learn.

American Jewish World Service is an amazing organization that works with grass roots organizations like Tostan in West Africa to bring change to these communities. This change comes from these communities…they decide for themselves what their needs are. Please check out www.ajws.org and www.tostan.org to learn more about the amazing programs that are so very successful in the Global South.

Summer of Change

2010-07-04T09:50:00.002-04:00

Greetings! This summer is the first summer in a LONG time that I will not be working full time at camp. I will be working 4 weekends at Camp Livingston, but it's very different to go up for a weekend and return home. If nothing else, it means that I am rested before I go and am able to return home for a good night's rest after the weekend. Anyway, it is quite different. I even remarked to Batya the other day that it didn't really feel like summer yet (this was June 15)...her response, "Well you aren't at camp," is the truth. Of course, I did enjoy the weekend at Camp Livingston, and I look forward for my trip next week!

Here IS what I am doing this summer: I am working as a chaplain (or student chaplain) at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. Working at CCHMC has been such a learning experience. Everyone is so incredibly nice...it is a truly amazing place to work. I wouldn't say working in a Children's Hospital is fun, but everyone enjoys working there and you can see that in how dedicated they are. It is truly the best hospital I have ever seen, and the care that patients and their family receive is amazing. I am assigned to the recovery from surgery floor. 99% of my patients are only there between 2-7 days and then they go home. So, although I am not seeing anything really traumatic, I am able to connect with families and learn about their stories and where they are in life.

I spend between 20-25 hours a week at the hospital. The other 15-20 hours is spent in class with a group of 5 of my classmates and a CPE (Clinical Pastoral Education) director. We discuss our clinical work, spend lots of time discussing our growth as pastoral care providers, and reflect on our time together in group as well. I have learned this summer how to be an active listener, and I find myself spending a lot of time reflecting on what people are saying to me - responding rather than reacting. This has truly been and will continue to be helpful for me in my professional and personal relationships. I look forward to the great work I will do during the rest of the summer and in my congregation in the next year - as well as in the rest of my life!

In August, August 18-29, I am returning to Israel again! I am leading a Birthright trip again with my dear friend Claire. She and I led a trip together last January (2009), so it will be fun to do it all over again! Once again, it will be a group of 24-26 year olds. This time I am leading with Israel Experience - an awesome organization! Should be a lot of fun...especially since it will be warm! And, I am looking forward to seeing some of my friends in Israel that I haven't seen in over a year and a half.

Batya and Carlie are doing great! Carlie is turning into quite a talker and I wonder every day where she gets that from :) I am definitely learning to respect my family so much more now as I am sure I was the same way. However, Carlie is such a beautiful little girl and she is inquisitive, smart, and really likes to do just about everything...very easy going just like her mother! Batya is a life saver. She allows me to explore all of the wonderful areas that I am interested in. Being at home this summer has reminded me how wonderful she is and how great our marriage is. I love her with all of my heart and soul, and I hope she remembers that.

Anyway, that's all for now. We are going to see a 4th of July fireworks show this afternoon with our dear friends Andrea and Sam. They were just married in May in North Carolina...and their wedding was awesome! I hope to write on this blog at least every couple of weeks now. I will be beginning my 4th year in August, and I am hoping it will be a less academically demanding year, so I hope to be able to blog more often. Only time will tell!

Happy 4th!!!

Heaven is in Fort Walton Beach, Florida

2010-02-17T13:57:00.002-05:00

Ok, so maybe I am joking, but only a little. Beth Shalom congregation in Fort Walton Beach is an amazing place. Just this past weekend, I was able to co-officiate a conversion and I officiated a Bar Mitzvah. After many hours of travel - with many, many complications - I arrived in FWB and was blessed to be a part of these two simchot. I can honestly say I do not regret at all going through what it took for me to get there. I have mentioned before how lucky I am to be working with this congregation. I cannot restate that enough. The congregants are incredibly nice, and they allow me to try new things every time I am there. This congregation is really allowing me to grow in my rabbinate - allowing me new opportunities and experiences that will be invaluable as I continue my education and career.

The sheer amount of snow we have seen this winter is ridiculous. We have set records already, and we have more snow coming this weekend. If Batya doesn't kill me before we leave Cincinnati (June, 2012), I will have to promise that we live where it is warm! And, let me tell you - I am not happy with the weather. It is pretty (the snow) for about 10 minutes...when the cold sets in, it's over - no more pretty, just awful!

This semester is going by pretty quickly...we are already just about half way through with the semester. With Purim and Pesach coming up over the next month and a half, it will all be over before I even have a chance to take a breath. Then comes the fourth year - a lighter academic year - and a chance to breathe before the 5th year rolls along. But, I am getting a little ahead of myself. The truth is - I am learning so much this year, and I can not be thankful enough.

That is all for now - I will write more again next month!
Stay warm!

2nd Semester, 3rd Year - Beyond 1/2 Way Finished!

2010-01-15T19:34:00.003-05:00

That's right folks, I am now officially more than halfway done as a rabbinical student. Of course, I still have 2 + years left, but now I am on the "downward" slope, as they say. Truth is, if I can make it through this semester, I will be much happier. They say the 2nd and 3rd year are the most challenging, and while I completely agree, I also hope that this semester is less time consuming as last semester. But, only time will tell!

I am taking the following classes this semester: Human Relations (continued from 1st semester), Homiletics (continued from 1st semester), Christian Scriptures (a class I am VERY excited about), Missionizing (No, they are not teaching us how to missionize), Modern Philosophy, Codes (Post Talmudic Jewish Law), and Commentaries (on the Torah - Rashi, and others). It will be a very interesting semester. I am excited to learn about the Christian Bible...

Carlie and Batya are still doing well. Carlie would be happy just about anywhere, doing just about anything. She really is a blessing as a kid...yes, she is challenging sometimes, but all in all, Batya and I are pretty lucky. Batya still loves her job, but as it is again winter, and VERY cold, she is trying so very hard to not be frustrated all the time. She is such a southern girl...and I thank God everyday to have led me to such a patient and wonderful woman.

That's all for now. I will write more this semester, when I have time!

It's November and it's 65 Degrees Outside

2009-11-10T16:36:00.002-05:00

I was told today by a friend that I need to stop apologizing for not blogging as often as I used to. She told me I use the same excuse every time. So, no apologies, just a new blog!

Well, the semester is 3/4 the way through, and we only have a few weeks of class left. I can't believe it! This is supposed to be the "hardest" and "most time-consuming" semester of my rabbinical school career. And, it's almost over. Now, I am NOT for a second arguing with the above statement. This has been and continues to be an incredibly time consuming and all encompassing semester - from schoolwork to congregational work to being an aba and a husband, etc. But, it is almost over. And, I have SOOOOOOOO much more to do before it is: 2 major papers, 1 major project, 1 "midterm," 1 "endterm," 1 Oral Talmud Exam, 1 "Mid-year" exam, an audio podcast, and everything else that goes with being a rabbinical student, an aba and a husband!

Of course, I am not complaining. I am incredibly thankful to be able to pursue my life's goals. It is just a lot to do, and not a lot of time. But, as Batya keeps telling me, I will find a way to get it all done. Somehow, someway - of course with some help from God. I mean, let's face it...none of this would be possible or even necessary if it wasn't for God.

What is really amazing is that it is November 10, and it is 65 degrees outside. I am pretty sure that by this time last year, it had already snowed. Now, don't get me wrong, Batya and I HATE Winter, so we are not complaining. But, we are a bit worried that we are going to get blitzed by snow in the coming months. Oh well, we'll take it one day at a time and deal with is as it comes!

Batya and Carlie are doing great! Carlie loves her new school, Rockwern Academy. Batya loves her job - although she'd be happy just about anywhere. It is wonderful being married to such an easygoing person. But, she LOVES her job. She loves the Museum, and it doesn't hurt that she has a great relationship with her boss. Oh, speaking of bosses - Batya started teaching Carlie's Preschool Religious School class at the synagogue we belong too. She's learning a lot, and her kids seem to love her...but then, who doesn't?

That's all for now. I am still thoroughly loving and enjoying my time at Beth Shalom in Ft. Walton Beach, Florida! What a wonderful congregation!

Shalom Ya'll!

High Holidays at the Beach!

2009-09-29T10:07:00.002-04:00

Shalom family and friends!

I know, I know...it has been too long, but my life these days is filled with homework, congregation preparations, and FAMILY! I can honestly say that I have never worked as hard as I am working this year, and yet I still feel a sense of incompletion almost every day. There never seems to be enough time to accomplish everything I want to accomplish - but this is the life of a 3rd year rabbinical student. And, truth be told, I am getting a lot of things accomplished. One of the messages I gave to my congregation this year was to dwell on our successes, while remembering our failures. I seem, sometimes, to dwell on what I haven't accomplished. This is a personal goal for this year - to think more about what I am able to accomplish, rather than dwell on what I have not accomplished!

Speaking about my congregation in Ft. Walton Beach - what an amazing congregation! They are warm, welcoming, loving, and just an awesome congregation. Many of the congregants have told me I look comfortable and happy on the Bima. Truth is, this congregation makes it easy. They are incredibly supportive, and have responded very well to my sermons, adult education classes, and teachable moments. While they compliment me, I often tell them they make my job easier as they make it so comfortable.

What I love the most about this congregation is the incredible opportunities I have here to learn. I am currently working with 2 conversion families (parents and children), and a couple of other conversion students. These students are so eager and anxious to learn, and I appreciate their feedback and questions. I am also working with a Bar Mitzvah student, and I am sure more are coming. While I thoroughly enjoyed my congregations last year, the experience I am gaining this year is valuable beyond words. I truly feel as if I am the "Rabbi," and this congregation treats me as such.

I admit this semester is going to be a very difficult one, with many demands on me. But, I have my visits to Temple Beth Shalom to look forward to as the chance to enact what I am learning in school - and for this I am incredibly thankful!

I hope everyone had an amazing and joyful new year!

Erin

Shalom Ft. Walton Beach, Florida!

2009-08-23T09:49:00.002-04:00

Shalom friends and family!

It's true, school starts tomorrow. 3rd year, here I come. When I am finished with this year, I will be 3/5 of the way done with "Rabbi school." This weekend marked my first visit to my new congregation, Beth Shalom, in Ft. Walton Beach, Florida. When I was trying to decide which congregation I wanted to work with this year, I knew one thing was certain - AVOID (at all costs) the possibility of being snowed in. Last year, I stayed an extra night 3 times because of the snow in Trenton. I loved the congregation in Trenton - but being a South Carolina boy, NO MORE SNOW!

So, I figured I would try the other extreme, Florida. I know this is only my first visit, but wow. The people are very cordial, friendly and a lot of fun. We had about 50 people at services on Friday night, which was great! And for Adult Ed, there was probably around 25. This congregation is certainly vibrant and alive, and I am so glad I have the opportunity to grow as a rabbinical student with their help and guidance. Of course, it doesn't help that the beach is all around us!

There will certainly be more work this year, but it will provide me tremendous opportunities to grow and learn as a rabbinical student!

I certainly want to also tell you about my summer. I was hired as the Judaics Director, but was promoted to Assistant Camp Director on the 2nd day of first session. It was a lot of work, but it really taught me the ins and outs of camp, and I feel I really thrived in the position. We had to close for 8 days due to the "swine flu," (read H1N1) and that was certainly an interesting transition. Camp Livingston in Bennington, Indiana is a little slice of heaven. The new director, Ben Davis, is truly amazing and I can't wait to see what he is able to do with this camp. He will make a great camp ten times better - to be one of the best!

I promise to do a better job of keeping up with my blog. It's been a long summer and I didn't have a lot of time to write. I will try to update at least once a month...we shall see.

For those of you that will be at Camp Coleman next weekend - get excited, it's going to be great!

See you there!

Farewell to Beth Isaac Congregation

2009-05-16T22:21:00.002-04:00

Shalom friends and family!

I am writing this post again from the Holiday Inn hotel in Trenton, Michigan - or more specifically, in Woodhaven! This has been my last Shabbat with one of my two student congregations. I started with Beth Isaac in September, 2008, and have had a tremendous year with them. We have studied quite a lot together, and I am very proud of their congregation.

I must say I am not sure how to properly thank them. I have learned an incredible amount from them. They have challenged me to become a better rabbinical student, and they have allowed me the creativity to grow. For that, I am incredibly thankful. They have treated my family very well, and for that I am also thankful. I leave this congregation a better student, having learned a great amount from them.

I do not like goodbyes, and I do intend to visit them in the future. I ended our dinner tonight by giving them all hugs and wishing them a very fond farewell. I leave them in great hands, as their student next year is an awesome rabbinical student, one that will teach them a lot, and one that will grow with them as well.

Shavuah Tov!

Erin

Wyoming "Rally in the Valley"

2009-05-15T15:08:00.003-04:00

Greetings friends and family!

About 5 months ago, one of my friends, a firefighter in the Wyoming City Fire Department, asked me if I was interested in being the Chaplain for his fire department. After speaking with some people at HUC, and talking it over with Batya, I decided this would be an awesome opportunity. It's the real deal - I get the whole uniform, pager, even a badge! About 6 weeks ago, a police officer in the Lockland Police Force, Brandon Gehring, was struck by the car of another police officer involved in a high speed chase. PO Gehring happens to be the son of one of the firefighters in my department. A couple of weeks ago, we held a fundraiser in Wyoming, and I was asked to give an invocation. Here it is:

Invocation for Brandon Gehring

Sunday, May 3, 2009

Our God, God of our ancestors, we cry aloud to You. Answer us from Your Holy Mountain (Psalm 3:5). We gather together today as a community, seeking your guidance and support. O God, our Rock and our Redeemer, guide us as we continue to seek your help. We look to You, O God, to be our Hope. We know You are here for us when we need Divine support. At this moment, when we are sorely reminded of the fragility of life, show us Your kindness, mercy and grace.

Envelop the Gehring family, and all of us who support them, with Your love, as we pray for the healing of Brandon Gehring. Guide Brandon’s doctors as they work to restore his health. Send us the wisdom to surround the Gehring family with love and comfort. We ask also for You to protect West Chester Police Officer Kevin Burger and his family, surrounding them also with your love and support. As we learn in Psalm 46:2 - You are our refuge and stronghold, a helper very near to us.

In truth O God, we understand that at times there is a price to pay for bravery. But humanity is better because of men like Brandon and Kevin. They selflessly protect us, putting the needs of others first. So we join together in reverence and humility; inspired by their courage, and reaffirm our desire to help make this community stronger and safer. We recommit to extend our time, effort and patience in stewardship to this community. Enable us to move forward today, listening to Your holy words “May we enjoy, O LORD, Your faithful care, as we have put our hope in You.” (Psalm 33:22).

And let us say Amen!

It has been a tremendous experience working with this department! Actually, I am being sent to Hermitage, Pennsylvania on Monday and Tuesday for a 2 day training to become a nationally certified Firefighter Chaplain. I am happy to be working with the department, and I am incredibly thankful for this wonderful opportunity to learn another valuable set of skills!

Our Future in Cincinnati?

2009-04-22T16:15:00.002-04:00

Yes, it's true. The HUC Board of Governors is going to be making some decisions regarding the future of HUC on May 3rd. And, as their bylaws do not allow them to vote in the same month a decision is made, the final decision will be voted on at their meeting in June. There have been so many rumors that have been spread. Many news articles have been written, in the US and in Israel. Truth is this: No one really knows what is going to happen. Rabbi Ellenson, the President of HUC, has told us that with the economic crisis affecting HUC like it has (and everyone else), it is possible one or even two campuses might close. The key word is might...no one really knows. And, there are numerous other scenarios that are being discussed.

I guess what is most scary about this is the lack of knowledge. The students and faculty at HUC in Cincinnati (and I would guess on the other campuses as well) have no idea what is going on. There seems to be a lot of information that is being left "in secret." That bothers me. A conversation regarding the future of HUC - whether that conversation includes closing a campus or not - needs to involve the "future of HUC." In my opinion, that future includes the students AND the faculty. As of right now, we are not involved. I do NOT want to put blame on any one person or group of individuals...but, it is wrong to not involve the students and the faculty.

In my opinion, whatever decision is made will greatly affect ALL of the Reform Jewish congregations in the United States (also in the rest of the world). So, what does this mean? Well, no one really knows right now. But, lots of organizations (and individuals) are coming together to create solutions, responses, etc. to any and all rumors that are circulating. I hope that URJ congregations throughout the United States will get their opinions out - in letters, on websites, etc. Whatever your opinion is - it is important, and it should be considered.

Of course, as a student with a family, I would be GREATLY affected by the closing of the Cincinnati campus. After all, there is NO way my family could afford to live in LA or NY. Batya and I have talked at great length about these possibilities...and it boils down to a choice for us: Do I quit HUC (a life long dream) or do I go to *insert city here* and Batya and Carlie move to Houston while I finish school? This is the choice we will be faced with. I know my situation may be specific to my family, but there are many other students with similar situations.

Bottom line - get involved. Send letters to David Ellenson and Barbara Friedman (the Chair of the Board of Governors) (dellenson@huc.edu ; bfriedman@huc.edu) and let them know how you feel. After all, if you do have an opinion, you should share it! Also, check out the following website: www.savehuc.com. There are links to articles written about this situation.

Here's hoping Batya, Carlie and I get to spend the next 3 years in Cincinnati!

Erin

Ability to see the "Big Picture"

2009-03-21T09:20:00.003-04:00

Shalom Everyone!

I am writing from my hotel room in Trenton, Michigan. This hotel has become a sort of second home as I will have spent roughly 20 nights here by the end of May. I have truly enjoyed working with Beth Isaac congregation, and although I will not miss the snow, I will miss this congregation when I move to a bi-weekly congregation next year. I have learned quite a lot working with this congregation, and I am thankful for that.

One of my closest friends, a rabbi in Atlanta, Georgia, Rabbi Bradley Levenberg, has been a great support these last couple of years. When I have been frustrated with the way things were or were not happening, he has often been there with a comforting word or hug to give me perspective and help remind me why I am on this journey to begin with. During our last year in Atlanta, before we moved to Israel, I remember something Brad told me. He suggested that there would be a point during my time at HUC where I would hit "rock bottom," and build myself back up to become the kind of rabbi he knew I was capable of being.

Truth is - I am not sure I believed him when he said it. After all, this has been a life dream of mine for many, many years. However, I totally understand now what he meant. This semester, as I have had less "homework," I have had more time to sit and reflect upon who I am, who I want to be, and what I need to accomplish to be that person, that kind of rabbi I know I am capable of being. I have also been able to think about what kind of rabbinate I want to have...and more importantly what I stand for. It is very hard to be a 32 (almost 33) year old rabbinical student with many classmates much younger than me. It is even harder to try and focus on all of the MANY things I need to focus on when the most important thing(s) are not even at HUC. Staying focused on Batya and Carlie has been hard, and I know I have made mistakes...but thank God I have a wonderfully forgiving wife who has helped me to grow and learn as this year has progressed.

So, there it is - I recognize that the most important thing is trying to stay on top of my schoolwork while being the best husband and Aba I can be. Thankfully, Carlie loves me no matter what...and I often wonder how Batya is so forgiving and wonderful. I only regret that my mother didn't have the opportunity to get to know Batya like I do. They may have been good friends...God knows these are the ONLY two women who really knew how to "put up with me." But, I digress! The important thing is that as I move forward in this HUC world, I am recognizing I have one of the greatest support teams ever, and I am working harder and harder to spend more time with them...

Oh, one other thing. Batya, Carlie and I joined the JCC back in July, 2008. I now have begun to utilize the gym. I am on a strict 3 day a week workout...30 minutes on a stationary bike, and about 13 other machines, working on every muscle in my arms, legs, and back. I hope to lose about 25 pounds and get back in the shape I should be. The workout is great because it truly enables me to work out some of the daily stress I find myself stressed out about.

I hope everyone has a wonderful Sunday, and a great week!

Erin

"Back in the Saddle Again..."

2009-03-06T16:42:00.002-05:00

Shalom Ya'll!

It seems only too appropriate that I am blogging once again from Dumas, Arkansas. I posted my last post as I was celebrating being once again surrounded by Southern Jewry. And now, back to the South I go, once again to join the Meir Chayim Congregation in McGehee, Arkansas for Shabbat. Truly, truly, it is a blessing to be able to journey to these small congregations and learn from these Jews who are so appreciative of our visits. I have learned many things this year...but one of the most important lessons is that while I may be able to teach to these congregations, they have just as much if not more to teach me. I am learning every day with every visit!

Batya and Carlie are continuing to do great! Although Batya has been a little under the weather this week, she is getting excited that we may be beginning to see the end of winter. The temps for the past couple of days have been in the 60's, which of course may not be so warm for us southerners, but it's a whole lot better than the 30's! Cincinnati seems to be a much happier and prettier place when it's warm.

On Thursday, I finished one of the most time consuming and stressful tests I have ever taken. It was History 402 - about 400 years of Jewish history in an hour and fifteen minute test. I think I passed, or at least I hope I passed. As the second half of the semester is beginning, I am getting excited for another amazing opportunity this summer. I am going to be the Judaics Director at JCC Camp Livingston in Indiana. This is the summer camp that serves the Cincinnati and Indianapolis Jewish communities. It will be a great experience...and my co-madricha (counselor) from the Birthright trip I led will be the Aquatics Director. It will be lots of fun to work with her again.

Well, that's all for now. I have to finish up some work before I begin to get ready for tonight's services. I hope everyone has a great Shabbat and weekend...and I'll get another blog up in a couple of weeks.

Ahh....Chag Purim Sameach!!!

Thank Goodness for Southern Jewry!

2009-02-18T10:24:00.002-05:00

As I grew up in Columbia, South Carolina, I have always wanted to be considered a Southerner. Some of my friends in college told me I was a Yankee because I was born in New York. Truth be told, this may be the first time I am publicly announcing that. It's not that I am not proud of our Northern states, or that I am embarrassed to have been born in NY, but nothing about me IS New York. I am a DIE-HARD Atlanta Braves fan, a Georgia BullDAWG through and through, and want to eventually return to the South to live. As Batya is from Texas, settling somewhere far away from snow is ideal! Of course, I have to admit I am a New York Giants fan, but when I was growing up in Columbia, SC, the Atlanta Falcons didn't exist yet! So, I rooted for the team my Dad did...and that has stuck with me. But, rest assured, I am a Southerner.

This past weekend, I ventured to a new congregation, Meir Chayim, in McGehee, Arkansas. This little town of a few thousand is situated close to Dumas, Dermott, and a few other small towns. The entire population of the four or five cities I drove through getting to McGehee was around 10,000. So, we're talking REALLY Southern. Truth is, there used to be a nice sized Jewish community there. For lots of reasons, mostly economic, 99% of the Jews have moved away, and the congregation in McGehee is struggling. I will tell you, though, they truly know Southern hospitality, and those that I visited are proud of their Jewish heritage! I conducted Kabbalat Shabbat services, had a short Religious School session on Saturday, and visited some very nice folks in their homes. It was a great visit, and it reminded just how important Southern Jewry is!

On another note, we are nearing the midterm of second semester. I am totally overwhelmed right now with the amount of work to be done, but I'll pull through as I always do...just have to keep my head in the books, and keep my eyes on the goal! I will be returning to Beth Isaac in Trenton this weekend, and I am looking forward to that visit. They are also a very gracious congregation, and it's always a lot of fun visiting with them!

Check out my brother's blog - it's new and improved, and it even has a new name!

Be well, and stay safe!
B'Shalom,
Erin

New Years on a plane?

2009-01-19T17:10:00.003-05:00

Shalom friends and family!

Well, since I last updated my blog, so many things have happened! I finished my 3rd semester of Rabbinical School - the first in Cincinnati! I passed all of my classes, a big relief. I really was not concerned, but until the grades are in, there is always a bit of discomfort. It seems that this semester will be very interesting! My teachers are very nice and they seem interesting. Here are my classes for this semester: Biblical Poetry, Biblical Hebrew (focused on Poetry), Midrash, History, Theology, A continuation of my Teaching Courses, A continuation of my Life Cycle Event course, and Limud (in which we learn how to chant the Prophets and Writings - the Haftarah). It will be a busy semester - as usual - but it will be very interesting, and I am excited for it!

On December 31, I met my newest group of friends! I helped to lead a group of 35 22-26 year olds who had never been to Israel. Along with my co-madricha, Claire, our tour guide, Yael, our guard, Eviatar, and our driver, Miguel, we traversed the entire country of Israel in 11 days. We covered a lot of history, and visited some amazing places. We truly had a great time! Israel Experts, the tour provider, is an amazing organization. I would recommend to anyone who is interested in the Birthright program that they check out Israel Experts: www.israelexperts.com. They are an amazing organization, and I truly hope to lead a trip with them again. While in Israel, I made some great friends for life, and I was able to reconnect with many of my friends in Israel. It was truly a great time, although I missed Batya and Carlie VERY much!

Now, it's time to put my nose back in the books, and study hard. Many of my friends tell me to relax...that I work too hard. I know it may seem that way, but I really enjoy working. To be honest, it is kind of relaxing for me to study hard. I really enjoy the learning, and when I am a Rabbi one day, I want to have as much knowledge as I can. Becoming a Rabbi is a lifelong goal and endeavor, so I try to learn as much as I can whenever I have the chance!

Shalom for now...I hope it is warmer for you than it is here. Of course, it is warmer in Cincinnati than in Trenton, Michigan where my monthly congregation is. I was there this weekend, and wound up staying an extra night because of the snow and the roads! As I tell Batya...the weather could always be worse!

Has it really been that long??

2008-12-17T18:39:00.003-05:00

Wow...has it really been over a month since my last post? I am so sorry..I know I should do a better job. So, what have I been doing for the past month and a half? Well, here's a list:
I've been to my Student Congregation twice
I have created a Curriculum to teach Mishnah to a Congregation
I have outlined the Torah
I have kept up with hundreds of pages of reading for school
I have taught in the Cincinnati Reform Jewish High School
I have created a Conversion and B'Nai Mitzvah Project
I have written and rewritten an assignment for my Bible class
I have written two assignments for Literature...Ok, I think you get the idea. That list could go on and on, but needless to say I am VERY busy. I am really enjoying myself, and I am learning so much! I now have a passion for history that I never had, and I can't wait to continue learning more history, as well as everything else. I'll blog about my classes next semester after I have attended each of them!

Oh, I am journeying back to Israel in 2 weeks! I am leading approximately 40 22-26 year olds who have never been to Israel. We are spending 11 days in Israel. There is no way to show the entire country in 11 days, but we're going to experience as much as we can! I am traveling with a group called Israel Experts. They are a part of Birthright Israel - a program started 8 years ago to bring Jews (between the ages of 18-26) to Israel. It's an outstanding program...truth be told, my first time to Israel was leading one of these trips when I worked for Hillel at the University of Illinois.

Right now, I am in the middle of "Reading Week." It's the week of studying just before our 2 days of finals. I only have 2 finals, and they are both on Monday. I am looking forward to finishing up this semester, journeying to Israel, and getting ready for next semester! Next semester, I am actually taking on a second student congregation. So, in the months of February, March and May, I will be traveling to my congregation in Arkansas. It will be an awesome experience...I can't wait!

That's all for now. I hope everyone is doing well, and staying warm!

Erin

Mid-Terms, Mid-Terms, Mid-Terms!!!

2008-10-30T19:59:00.002-04:00

Shalom Everyone!

Well, I thought last year flew by. I never had any idea how quickly this year would fly! We still haven't finished unpacking, and the semester is more than half way over. I am now experiencing what I call the "Mid-Semester meltdown." One of my personal promises when I first started at HUC was to try to stay as far ahead as I could. What I realized very quickly was I wouldn't be able to "stay ahead," but I would be able to prevent myself from falling behind. I worked two to three hours a night last year working on homework, and I was able to spend time with Carlie and Batya on Shabbat. This year, however, things are different...

I will say the classes are so incredibly intellectually stimulating. I am truly enjoying myself, and very much enjoying the learning. We have a lot of information to learn, and it seems that just as I am grasping something, five or ten more things come flying right at me. I am certainly not complaining...I love it, and have not once looked back. I will say doing this with a family is hard, but I wouldn't change it for the world. This year, I am spending more time at home, but less time with Batya and Carlie. I am thankful to have a wonderfully accepting wife who understands how important this is to me. And, she is really enjoying her new job, so at least she is finally doing something she enjoys!

Lastly, as the winter is coming upon us, and the temperatures are dropping, I know we are in for a winter nightmare. I will say, though, that unlike last year, at least we have a heating system that works in our house! So, as long as HUC turns on the heat in their building, and our classrooms start to get warmer, it won't be as bad of a winter as it was last year.

I will BLOG again after midterms are finished, I promise. For now, stay warm, and when you vote next week, make sure you make the decision that YOU feel is best for the country, not what someone else wants you to believe!

B'Shalom!

"Acting" the Part

2008-10-10T18:53:00.002-04:00

Shalom friends and family!

Throughout my first year in Rabbinical school in Israel, a lot of my classmates expressed frustration with not being able to use what we learned. I certainly agreed with them. We learned a tremendous amount last year, but there wasn't a lot of practicality to what we learned, and a lot of us wanted more opportunities to "act out" what we were learning. That is one of the great changes for this year. Once a month, I travel to Trenton, Michigan to Beth Isaac Congregation and lead them in Shabbat prayer. I arrive around 3 in the afternoon, get myself prepared for services...then off to the Synagogue I go. This congregation is so incredibly gracious and accepting...and they have already accepted Batya, Carlie and me as part of their family.

THIS IS WHAT I WAS WAITING FOR!

Finally, I get to lead a congregation and learn as I go. And, the best thing this congregation offers me is understanding. When I make mistakes (and I've already had my fair share) they accept me with open arms, and we learn together. On Shabbat afternoon, I lead the congregation (usually 10-15 people) in an Adult Education class. We've had one Torah Study, and one discussion about Minhagim (customs) within Judaism, traditional and Reform Jewish customs. I love this little slice of heaven!

I prepared myself for the High Holy Days by writing sermons, draft after draft...studying Torah portions, writing outlines including the English and Hebrew readings I wanted to have in the service. I met with the Ritual committee from Beth Isaac and went over my outlines with them. They put the ball in my court and said "run with it." This relieved so much of my stress...and the High Holy Days became an opportunity to lead, grow and learn. Instead of stressing about not making mistakes, I was able to focus on praying and reflecting on the things I needed to change about myself. What an awesome opportunity.

I am pretty satisfied with my sermons...and if anyone would like copies of my sermons, please shoot me an email and I would be happy to share them with you. For the first time in my life, I was COMPLETELY exhausted after Yom Kippur, but the family we were staying with - Carlie and Batya were able to come with me to Trenton for the HHD - had a hot tub...so it was great last night to sit in the hot tub, have a drink and relax. It was truly an amazing day, and I look forward to continued growth with this congregation.

Beth Isaac Congregation truly is a wonderful place! They are incredibly accepting, and I highly recommend that if you are ever in the area, you should check them out! I hope everyone has a joyful and sweet Shabbat and Sukkot next week. I'll try to blog a bit more frequently now.

B'Shalom for now!

Our home in Cincinnati

2008-09-11T21:33:00.002-04:00

Shalom friends and family!

It's been a LONG time since I blogged...I know. I apologize from the bottom of my heart. I have been extremely busy, however, and I would like to spend a moment discussing this schedule! I have 7 total classes: Bible 401, Rabbinics 401, PDE (Professional Development) 401, PDE 402, History 401, Biblical Hebrew 401, and Hebrew Literature. Also, once a month and for the High Holy Days, I am working as a Student Rabbi at Beth Isaac Synagogue in Trenton, Michigan. Along with one of my PDE classes, I am teaching 9-12 graders about Resistance in the Holocaust and Israel's First 60 Years through Film on Sunday nights. I would say most nights I am home around 7 or so, but sometimes later! I leave at 7 am every morning...so, as you can see, these are full days. My classes are extraordinarily interesting, and although I have more reading than I have ever had every day, I am doing my best to chug along, and I am doing pretty well so far.

I even have some time to spend with Carlie and Batya most days! Sunday is our "family day." We start out going to the Jewish Community Center around 9 to take Carlie swimming. She loves it, and we love swimming with her. Since we left camp, we have made our new home (pictures to come later - when our camera returns - we did find it) quite livable, and we are really enjoying it. It's cute, and our neighbors are very nice.

My Congregation in Trenton, Michigan is truly wonderful. They are gracious loving people who really do treat me extremely well. I enjoy being with them, and I can't wait to introduce them to Carlie and Batya when we go there for Rosh Hashanah.

For now, that's it...Oh, I joined a bowling league on Tuesday evenings. This really is just to do something where I don't have to think about school, study, or anything but have a great, fun time bowling. It's fun, and a great escape!

Please check out my brother and sister in law's new blog: www.jandrose.blogspot.com. Jason is really funny, and it's a very enjoyable blog.

Until next time...

So long little angel...

2008-08-09T09:51:00.002-04:00

As camp comes to an end, and we prepare for our move to Cincinnati next week, I just wanted to write a short blog about an amazing family and an amazing soul. Several times in the past year, I have asked for your thoughts and blessings for our friends as they embarked on a tireless, difficult journey. We have learned so much from this family, and will continue to be inspired and touched by their family and their little girl for as long as we live.

On August 7, their little girl breathed her last breaths, cool San Francisco night air, and continued her journey to be with God. This was a very difficult journey for her parents, but they knew it was the right decision to make for their little girl. Reading their blogs and watching their goodbyes, it seems as if this decision was made by their little girl. It's as if she told them it was time, and they were honoring her wishes. I have so much respect and love for them...I only wish I had had the honor of meeting little Tikva face to face.

As the Spinrads continue on this journey, I ask that you hold their family in your thoughts and prayers and hold your own families as close to you as possible. Never forget to tell the ones you love how much you love them every day. Hold them, love them, kiss them...never let go.

For little Tikva, I will never forget.

Life at Capital Camps

2008-06-28T20:34:00.002-04:00

Shalom Friends and Family!

I know it's been a few weeks since my last post, but we have been busy, busy, busy! After a few days in Rockville, Maryland visiting Jason, Rosalie, and our beautiful nieces, we ventured up to Capital Camps. Let me tell you something...I have worked and attended 6 different camps. This camp is by far the best! The facilities are amazing, the staff is incredibly amazing, and the director and assistant director are the greatest!

During Leadership staff week, we talked an awful lot about ways to manage staff and how to train the staff to work with these 600 children that would attend camp this summer. We really bonded as a leadership team, and we were really excited for the staff to arrive. Once the staff arrived, the real fun began. I have 30 of the best staff I have ever had the pleasure of working with in Benjamin Village - the youngest village in camp, 8-10 year olds. The counselors and specialists in my village are truly amazing, and we are a really close group!

The kids have been here for a week, and I don't know where it went! I feel like it was only yesterday that we were in Israel, sitting on Moshe Hess Street, overlooking our little Macolet, and enjoying all of the amazing smells of the wonderful food our neighbors cook! We really do miss our neighbors, and we are feeling quite nostalgic every day!

But, back to Capital Camps. I will admit that Carlie's babysitter, Chen, an Israeli, is very good with Carlie. Carlie loves her, and asks about her all the time when she isn't around. Carlie goes all over camp, and everyone treats her so kind and she loves all of the attention. Batya is working in the office, and I am pretty sure she's enjoying that too. The only downside is that because I am "on call" 24 hours a day, it's been pretty hard for Batya and me to spend lots of time together...but we're trying to make our schedules more conducive to seeing each other!

Camp really is great! The food is great, and everyone is just so welcoming and accepting. It truly is a wonderful place for us, and I expect the rest of the summer to be just as great if not better!

I'll do my best to write again this summer, but for now, Shavuah Tov and L'Hitraot...

Back in the USA

2008-05-31T16:21:00.002-04:00

Greetings friends and family! The last time I wrote, I was sitting in my little apartment on Moshe Hess Street, contemplating how I was going to get all of my "stuff" back to the US. I was VERY excited about seeing my friends and family, and also a bit nervous with all of the "transitioning" I, Batya and Carlie would have to do once we were back in the States. When we moved to Israel in June, 2007, jet lag really hit Batya and me a lot. Carlie, however, was fine. Well, this time, Carlie has really been affected by jet lag, and Batya and I have been fine. However, dealing with a 2 year old who is experiencing jet lag can be quite difficult....especially, the constant wake up at 4 or 5 am.

But, I think Carlie is finally adjusted! This means that we will finally be able to really sleep at night! In the past week (yes, it's been a week since we've been back in the States), we have been in Atlanta, Columbia, Atlanta again, Cincinnati, and now Houston. We'll be in Houston until Thursday, then back to Atlanta for 2 days, to the DC Area, and then to camp! If Carlie is able to make it through these two weeks, we'll be highly impressed! Yes, she did scream for about 20 minutes on the flight to Houston (and I can't forget the 2 hours of screaming coming back from Israel), but all in all, she's doing great!

In the past week, we've purchased cell phones, signed a lease on a BEAUTIFUL house in Finneytown (outside of Cincinnati - don't worry, pictures to come in August when we move in), seen lots of friends and family...and we hope Batya has found a job! I don't want to write too much about that until she actually has the job.

I have to admit that Batya and I have been remarking about the "little things" we miss about Israel. Every once in a while, I'll look at Batya and say something like, "That's something else I miss about Israel." We will certainly miss the views of the Old City, the smells of our neighbors' cooking, and being so close to everything...being able to walk everywhere. We'll be spending the summer at Capital Camps in Waynesboro, PA. We are very excited, for sure!

I'll try to write a few times over the summer, but as I'll be very busy, please don't be angry if the next post is in August!

L'Hitraot for now!

Is it really over?

2008-05-21T22:44:00.002-04:00

Normally being up at 5:45 am isn't so abnormal for me. After all, I have a 2 year old daughter. But for some reason, I haven't slept so well this week. I was sick to my stomach (literally) on Saturday night, up most of the night. Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and last night I also haven't slept so well, and this morning I was up at 4:30. And for the most part, it's NOT Carlie's fault! So, why am I having trouble sleeping?

For the past 11 months, I have shared with you my life's journey in Israel. You have grown with me Jewishly, spiritually, personally, as a husband, father, classmate, Jew, and as a human being. And, now, in less than 2 days, I will be back "home" in the United States, ready to begin the next part of the journey. While Rabbinical school is 5 years, the first year in Israel is a journey in and of itself. I remember walking into Nancy Lewitt's (our Director of Student Affairs) office on June 25, 2007 and telling her "I know how this works." What the hell was I thinking? Knowing what I know now, I realize I really knew nothing then.

By no stretch of the imagination do I feel this journey is over. This is just the first "leg." For four more years, I get to learn, develop and grow into a Rabbi. Some say becoming a Rabbi is a life long journey...I tend to agree. But, this year has taught me so much more than I ever could have imagined. While finishing up my exams yesterday I realized just how much I have learned. It truly is amazing. And as far as growth is concerned, I feel this year has given me the opportunities to grow more in one year than the rest of my life put together.

This will be my last post of this part of the journey. I will be renaming my BLOG to "Erin's Journey to become a Rabbi" because I want to continue sharing this journey with you. As the name changes, the blog won't. I will still share with you my thoughts on this journey. I welcome any feedback either on this year's blog entries or on any of my blog entries in the future.

I will end this blog with a quote from one of my classmates:
"This moment is quite surreal. While I know we are saying Goodbye to each other, aren't we really just saying until next time? We'll all see each other again, and we'll ALWAYS be the 2007-2008 Year In Israel class...even when we meet for conventions 20 years from now, this will still be the year we remember!"

Shalom, L'hitraot!!!

My Birthday and our last Shabbat together as a class

2008-05-18T08:53:00.002-04:00

Shalom Friends and family!

Well, Friday, May 16 marked the second time in my life in which I spent my birthday in Jerusalem. In 2000, I spent my birthday out with my friend Ian, who also has May 16 as his birthday! That was fun, but this year had a special twist to it. I woke up - Batya let me sleep in to 9:30, and was told I wouldn't have to change a diaper at all that day! Since Carlie had a bit of a stomach bug, it was a VERY special present from Batya!!

After Carlie woke up from her nap, we went to have lunch together at a new Falafel and Shwarma place. It was very good, and it was nice to be able to spend the day with Carlie and Batya! After lunch, we met Julie and Noah at the park, and it was really great to see Noah and Carlie running around together at the park. However, at about 4, a ton of older kids took over the playground, and they really weren't paying attention to Noah and Carlie. So, to avoid anyone getting hurt, we came back to our place to rest and prepare for the last Kabbalat Shabbat for the HUC-JIR Class of 2012 in Jerusalem!

We had a beautiful service led by several of my classmates. All 5 of the Cantorial students helped to lead as well, and they really do sound beautiful together. Several of my classmates were given awards for academics, community service, etc. The highlight of the service, though, was when the President of HUC, who had been in town for Shimon Peres's Presidential conference, and who missed his plane back to the states, addressed our class. He addressed at the beginning of the year, and it was only fitting that we end our time together addressed by him again!

After services, we went to Beit Shmuel, a hotel right next to HUC, and had a catered dinner. While the food was just ok, Batya and I spent most of our time with Carlie who became a little sick part of the time. Thankfully she was ok! Once dinner was over, we went back to the student lounge, the Moadon, for the greatest slide show ever. While I didn't cry (I had expected I would), I was incredibly impressed about the slide show, and extremely happy to have been a part of the HUC Year in Israel 2007-2008 class, the best class in the world! (in Israel)

Exams start tomorrow, and while I am excited to finish them and return to family and friends in the States, I am becoming more and more nostalgic every day. I know I am going to miss so many things, and I am already looking forward to a return to Israel soon, in some way!

Erin

Another "Closing"

2008-05-14T06:10:00.002-04:00

Greetings family and friends!

Today was the finale of our Israel Seminar Program. Every Wednesday we have explored Israel from the period of the "New Jew" (the Early Pioneers at the end of the 19 and beginning of the 20th century) to the present day. We have explored so many different aspects of Israeli society. We looked at Israel through the eyes of Jews, Christians, Arab Christians and Arab Muslims. We've been to Israeli Arab towns and to areas still in dispute with Israel's neighbors.

There have been so many interesting experiences that have truly helped to shape not only my relationship with Israel, but the internal conflict that I feel toward Israel. The Israel Seminar has helped to shape and reshape my Jewish identity, religious, spiritual, etc. My political views have changed over and over again as I have lived in Israel this year. Living every day what Americans read in the newspaper has truly been eye opening. When my friends and family read about the terrorists activity at Mirkaz Rav, it was only about a 20 minute walk away from my home.

Every Sunday, we have read the news in Israel from an Israeli newspaper, feeling as if we were a part of that news, and for much of the news, we have been. The Israel Seminar has given me the opportunity to explore so many aspects of being an Israeli and being a Jew. By no means do I feel I have "learned it all." And, while my Hebrew ability has grown so much while being here, I do have much more to learn before I can even think of myself as fluent. But, living in Israel, and the experience of Israel Seminar has given me so many more tools to use when I discuss Israel back at home.

After all, being able to bring Israel back to the States is one of the goals of Israel Seminar. It's not just about my experiences. It's also about my ability to share my experiences and knowledge with friends, family, and future congregants back in the United States. I only hope when we return to the States, I am able to even touch the surface when I begin to teach about Israel and share these experiences.

The end of the Israel Seminar means I am now charged with continuing my Israel experience and education on my own, without the structure of the Israel Seminar. I am excited about these opportunities!

B'Shalom!

Remembering and Never Forgetting

2008-05-01T08:50:00.003-04:00

Greetings family and friends. I have been teaching 7th graders about the Holocaust for about 6 years. Every year I learn something new and experience something new. Today was no different. I was given the honor to help create and lead the Yom Hashoah service at HUC this morning. We invited the Israeli Rabbinical Students to join us and one of the students helped us to create the service. I knew today would be hard, but I don't think I was prepared really for the rush of emotion I experienced and continue to experience today.

I have been in Israel during Yom Hashoah before. I have even helped students to grapple with the seriousness and emotion of this day. It's different in America. Our care and remembering is not different in America, but there is something different about being in Israel on this day. As 10:00 A.M. comes around and the siren begins, it's a very hard moment, or moments. As you see all the cars come to a sudden stop and experience all of the drivers getting out of their cars in respect and rememberance...it's an experience you can't and won't experience anywhere else. As a matter of fact, there was a baby who cried from the moment the Siren started until the Siren finished. I couldn't help but think how appropriate that was. That little baby, who truly couldn't have comprehended the significance of this day, captured the feelings of all of us in his cry.

Each year on Yom Hashoah, I am reminded of our family friend, Max Krautler, who we drove ride to Kabbalat Shabbat services every week. He didn't have a car, so he depended on us to bring him to Synagogue. He was the first Holocaust survivor I ever met. When I first asked him to speak at my elementary school about his experiences, he refused. It was too hard for him to bring back all of that emotion and those awful experiences. Then, a couple of years later, he approached me. I have never been so interested in someone's life as I was in his. I always felt a special connection to "Grandpa" Max. I used to go to his house on the weekends just to spend time with him. I remember the first time he showed me his tattoo, his Nazi number. I will never forget you, Max, and the immense struggles you lived with your whole life.

At the end of the Shoah ceremony, one of my classmates told a story of two women from Hungary who met on the train to Auschwitz. They occupied the awful 3 day journey by getting to know each other. One of the two girls told the other she had a male friend back home who would be perfect for her. They vowed to meet back at her home town once the war was over and their hell was over.

While in the camp, one of the girls kept alive by the promise of meeting this new male friend. She also dreamed of being reaquainted with her new friend. After the war, she went back to Hungary to look for her friend. Miraculously, she found her friend, was introduced to the male friend, fell in love and married him. She today has 3 children, and many grandchildren. One of the granddaughters is the girlfriend of my classmate.

It is stories like this that help me to realize that we're still here, and we have so much hope for the future. It also reminds me how important Israel is for the Jewish people to survive. I may not always agree with what Israel does, and I may struggle with life in Israel at times. But the bottom line is that I am able to live in Israel, and this is a benefit I shall never take for granted. As long as Israel lives, we will never forget, and we will always remember.

“No one yet knows what awaits the Jews in the twenty-first century, but we must make every effort to ensure that it is better than what befell them in the twentieth, the century of the Holocaust.” - by Benjamin Netanyahu

Pesach in Belarus

2008-04-26T03:11:00.003-04:00

Wow, where do I begin? Should I begin with my deep fears for this trip? I had no idea what to expect on our trip to the Former Soviet Union. I remember many things from my childhood, and there were many stereotypes from my childhood which kept coming back to my mind regarding the FSU. To be honest, I really haven't known many people from the FSU in my life. I do remember some people immigrating to my hometown (Columbia, SC) when I was in middle school. I specifically remember a very sweet man, Anatoly, who wound up working at my Synagogue and was like a grandfather to me in many ways. And, of course, I have several classmates from Russia and the Ukraine. Also, in Israel there are a large number of Israeli citizens from the FSU.

But, still, even with the programs we did to get ready for this trip, I really had many fears. After all, I had never used a translator before. Would I really be able to communicate with the communities? And, would I be able to lead a Seder for the first time in my life? I knew I wouldn't be alone as one of my classmates was with me in both of the small cities we traveled to. I guess I kept myself calm with the excitement I had with finally using some of the skills I have learned and aquired this year.

We arrived at Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv with this same excitement and fear. Once we finally boarded our plane, we knew there was no turning back, and we really were going to Belarus. While I was excited, I was also quite sad. Since I've known Batya, I've never been away from her during Passover. And, I had never been in a different country than her. I knew I would really miss Carlie and Batya, but I'll write more about that in a bit.

Landing in Belarus, I looked out and saw foggy rain clouds. It wasn't that cold, but it wasn't warm either. We spent the first night in Minsk, and I was pretty excited because I knew that I had family from Minsk. I immediately felt a connection to Minsk. We were comforted when the Chief Rabbi of Belarus, a Reform Rabbi, met us at the airport. He had many interesting things to say to us as we took a van into the city:

"There are no terrorists on trains..."
"You might meet KGB...(Ka Ga Beh in Russian)"

That night we were amused to see a strip club, called "Texas," and a bowling alley in our hotel. Oh, and a Casino too. Really, why leave our hotel??? Actually, when we went to the supermarket after dinner, we found eclairs and other pastries for about 700 Rubels (which eqauls to less than 50 cents). The exchange rate was 2100 rubels to 1 dollar. So, for $100, I was able to have over 200,000 Rubels in my wallet! I felt rich for the first time in my life!!!

Anyway, we woke up very early the next morning, met our translator, Ilona (More about her later), and headed out to Polotsk. Here's where things started to get interesting. So, we had heard that people from the FSU love to drink, and especially love to drink Vodka. Well, this very nice man, our new friend, offered PJ and me sips from his Vodka - at 8:30 in the morning. Needless to say, we both took a taste, and that was it. 8:30 is WAY TOO EARLY to be drinking...

When we arrived in Polotsk, we were told we would be leading a Seder for the Elderly and leading Kabbalat Shabbat for the High School group, Netzer. We were excited and nervous at the same time. As you can see by my pictures (link to webshots on the right of the blog), we had a great time, and it was a lot of fun. The Netzer kids were very nice, and had so many questions about life in America and Israel. They had so much pride in their Judaism, and it was awesome to be even a small part of that. When we went to tour around Polotsk, they refused to let us go alone, and we had a great time with them! In Polotsk, we ate every meal at this "Cafe" that was inside a supermarket. The food was really good, and by the time we left Polotsk (in 2 days), we could order for ourselves! Oh, and I can't forget to tell you about the bowling alley right next to the supermarket. It was pretty good, and we bowled both nights we were in Polotsk! Oh, one more thing about Polotsk. When we were walking around Polotsk, we met this very nice Belarus woman. She had the largest fingers I have ever seen. She was about 4 feet tall, but her hands were gigantic!!!

So, I have to speak about our translator, Ilona. She really was very special. She was incredibly nice...her English was fantastic, and she was a tremendous amount of fun to be with. She taught us quite a bit of Russian, and we even taught her some English slang expressions. I hope I can stay in contact with her. She was awesome!!! Even though we are 12 years apart, I constantly referred to her as "Ilona our mother" because she really took great care of us!

On Sunday, we were off to the Cultural capital of Belarus, Vitebsk! Vitebsk was quite a bit larger than Polotsk, and our hotel overlooked the city square. It was really beautiful. We met a new friend, Stas, another person I hope to stay in touch with. He was with us the entire time we were in Vitebsk, and we had a great time with him. While we were in Vitebsk, I experienced the most interesting and maybe the most fun Seder I've ever experienced. They had microphones set up for the leaders of the seder right next to a synthesizer. They acted out the Pesach story with dancer, actors, and a "time machine" that took them back in time to experience the story. There was an Israeli named Boris who is actually from Vitebsk. He sang two Israeli Songs in Hebrew, and I really began to realize how much I missed and appreciated Israel.

Even though there have been times when I really felt uncomfortable here in Israel, I have realized how much I love Israel and will truly miss Israel when I leave. Israel is a part of who I am, and the experiences from this year have truly helped me to learn and grow more in 10 months than my previous 31 years. I also decided I didn't want to be away from Batya and Carlie for that long EVER again! I actually began to cry when Boris was singing because his song was all about returning home to Israel, and all I could think about was how lucky I am to be able to go home to Israel, and how much I missed my girls!

So, while we were in Vitebsk, we also led a Seder in a kindergarten. THAT WAS SO MUCH FUN!!! It was really great to dance and sing with the kids. They were so inspiring, and they were so knowledgeable about Judaism. Returning to Minsk for two days was tiring but a lot of fun. We participated in a Cantorial Music Festival...and the community really appreciated us. We also were asked to lead a Seder for a college aged group. It was a little frustrating because we were all exhausted, but it was a great experience.

What have I learned from this awesome experience? The reasons why I want to be a Rabbi were reminded to me and confirmed to me. I truly love being Jewish, and the opportunity to lead others was educational, inspiring, and rewarding all at the same time. I only hope I am able to keep my relationship and connection with Belarus. I also hope to be able to return to these communities in the future. I end my blog with the "informal" way of saying goodbye in Russian -

P'ka!

Just some random thoughts

2008-04-11T04:35:00.004-04:00

It truly is amazing how quickly life flies by. I remember a conversation I had with Batya about 16 months ago as we were beginning to think about how life would be in Israel with a small child. Granted, Carlie is a pretty calm kid, but she was still a baby, and we knew life would be hard, especially for Batya. Thank God we found the kindergarten at the YMCA, and Batya has been able to do things she wanted to do this year! And, it's been so good for Carlie. Her Hebrew is progressing so well. She even speaks more Hebrew than English. Just the other day when Batya asked her to put her bowl on the table, Carlie said, "not table, Mommy, Shulchan (Hebrew for Table)." Back to the conversation Batya and I were having...we were so excited and scared out of our minds at the same time. How would we get everything done we needed to do before we went? How would we figure out how to pay bills in Israel? How would we be able to take care of our financial and other responsibilities in the US while we were abroad?

I have always believed God held us in God's hands, and would help us along the way. Batya has always been more of a realist. She believes in God, for sure, and is deeply engaged Jewishly - I've actually been quite surprised at her interests in my studies this year - but she has always kept more of a "realist" belief toward life. While I am talking about things like b'sheret (fate), Batya is talking about coincidence. But, somehow, we come together and are able to get things done. Truth be told, I would be nowhere without Batya. Her deep understanding of who I am (which is quite difficult at times) and where I want to be in life keeps me in check. She is the first person to stick her neck out for me, and she never is anything but supportive. Even when we have arguments, she is coming from a place of support - something I sometimes have difficulty realizing until after the fact.

Here we are, 6 weeks before our return to the States, and these same conversations are beginning. How are we going to reenter our "normal" lives in the States - a place where we are comfortable, where we understand completely the language and culture? How will we get all of our loose ends tied up before we return? Somehow, our love and deep sense of family has and will continue to help us even through our most confused times.

I am going to Belarus - to Plotzk and Vitebzk - to help with Pesach programming for a week. We (myself and some of my classmates) leave on Thursday. While this is going to be an amazing experience, and I am incredibly excited, I am also weary of the fact that when I return we have 4 weeks to "get things done." This doesn't only apply to packing and school. We want to cherish every day we have in Israel, as we aren't sure of when we'll be back. Sure, I might be able to staff a Birthright trip in the future, but who knows when we'll come back as a family? Although this year has been difficult in some ways, it has been more rewarding than we could ever have imagined. We have grown as a family, and I have grown individually more in this year than in my whole life - spiritually, Jewishly, and personally.

We are excited to enjoy these last 6 weeks and take advantage of everything we are able to!

Shabbat Shalom!

Tabili Mayim!!!

2008-03-28T11:19:00.002-04:00

Ok, for those of you looking at this title and wondering what the heck that means, I'll tell you. One way of "asking" (I put this in quotes because Americans asking and Israelis asking are two totally different things) for water is to say "Tevili Mayim." (pronouned Tu vee lee Mah yeem) As Carlie is going to a Hebrew speaking (and sometimes Arabic) kindergarten at the YMCA, she is speaking more Hebrew than English. Actually, the other day when Batya asked Carlie to place something on the table, Carlie responded, "Lo table, Shulchan." (Not table, table (in Hebrew).

Yesterday, Batya, Carlie and I drove to Eilat for a nice family vacation. The Israel Progressive Movement for Judaism (IMPJ) holds a bike ride to raise awareness for Progressive Judaism in Israel. The bike ride begins in Tel Aviv and ends in Eilat - a 5 day bike ride. So, along with our family vacation, we went down to cheer on the riders as they ended their ride. It was nice to see so many of my classmates participating.

Getting back to Carlie...we were having dinner at our hotel last night. Carlie finished her juice and wanted water. So, she started screaming at us and at everyone in the restaurant, "Tabili Mayim!" Now, as Carlie's Aba, I was very impressed with her Hebrew, and Batya and I both laughed. At the same time, we were immediately hushing her because it was kind of loud and quite rude. Several of the servers looked at us funny, and some giggled with us!

We had a yacht ride in the Gulf of Eilat last night with many of the riders. It was really nice...the weather is great here, and Carlie had a blast. I will post pictures up to our webshots page in the next couple of days. Today, we walked on the boardwalk in Eilat. It was really nice to just get out and be a family without any worries...and Carlie enjoyed the sun!

Next week, I'll be hiking with some classmates up North a bit. I am looking foward to getting out with some classmates, and enjoying nature!

Purim....I am sure you've already seen the pictures. Carlie's 2nd Purim, and first in Jerusalem, was a lot of fun. She really enjoyed being Minnie Mouse, and Batya and I had a great time too. It was really a spectacular sight to see so many people in costumes around Jerusalem. Not much else is going on. We are officially 8 weeks away from our return to the States. In just a few weeks, I'll be traveling to Belorussia with some classmates to lead Passover Seders in the FSU. It will be a great experience, and I am looking forward to it!

I'll try and get another blog up before the trip to the FSU, but I'll for sure have one after the trip!

Shabbat Shalom!

We're Okay...and the Southern Tiyul

2008-03-07T06:54:00.002-05:00

Shalom Friends and Family!

Last week, the HUC Year In Israel 2007-2008 class went on our final Tiyul of the year. As it has been a very cold and difficult winter in Jerusalem with snow twice, we were excited to be able to go "down south," especially with our shorts and bathing suits to go swimming in the Gulf of Eilat. We started our Tiyul at Sde Boker, which was the Kibbutz that Ben Gurion retired to after his service in the Israeli Government. He is buried there with his wife. His vision for the future included settling and developing the Negev Desert. His famous line was, "The border begins where the plow stops." So, developing the desert was of vital importance!

We then went on a wonderful and exciting hike in the Mahktesh Ramon. Mahktesh does not translate into English as this type of landscape was discovered in Israel. It is basically a naturally made crater in the South of Israel. It is a beautiful area of Israel, and I highly recommend anyone who visits Israel to visit there. This is the place where a few of us went on an overnight hike in September. It is gorgeous! From there, we went to Kibbutz Yahel, one of the two Reform Kibbutzim in the Arava Valley (just north of Eilat) in the middle of the Negev Desert.

Over the next two days, we went on an awesome hike on Mount Shlomo. This is a long hike, not very hard, but with a few quite difficult places. It leads to a beautiful overlook of the Gulf of Eilat. Check out my pictures from the Tiyul by clicking on the Webshots link on the right! There are some gorgeous pictures. We also spent the night in a Bedouin tent called Shacharut. It was a great experience, although it was a little "hollywood"esque...too planned and too touristy. But, it was in a beautiful place.

On Friday, we went to Kibbutz Lotan. This was my favorite part of the Tiyul. Kibbutz Lotan is a Reform Kibbutz in which the residents live their lives based on a VERY eco friendly lifestyle. They recycle everything, and they really make good use of everything they recycle. Check out their Kibbutz: www.kibbutzlotan.com. Anyone who is eco friendly or "green" should check out this Kibbutz. They really lead by example, and are very innovative in their ideals on being eco friendly.

Shabbat was very nice and relaxing. We had Shabbat Shacharit out in the desert, and we spent a lot of Shabbat afternoon playing sports. We also received some very troubling news about our classmate and his family in California. I ask that everyone who reads this blog keep the Spinrad family in their thoughts and prayers as they are in the process of making some very difficult decisions.

About last night...yes, there was a shooting at an Orthodox Yeshiva/Seminary in Jerusalem. It was about a twenty minute walk from our house. We were enjoying the Engagement party of a couple of friends of ours when we heard the news. We are ok, and our awareness of security is certainly heightened. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends of those who were killed and injured last evening. We only hope and pray for a time when we don't have to phone our families and friends to let them know we're ok. For now, just keep these families in your thoughts and prayers.

Tonight, I am going to Ramat Hasharon, a Reform community between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, for Shabbat services and dinner. This should be a great experience. Next week, we have a "Rabbinic Seminar." I am not sure what we'll learn at this seminar, but we are really beginning to get excited about being able to come back to the States and share our new knowledge and experiences with family and friends.

Until next time, I wish you a Shabbat Shalom!

Shabbat at the Great Synagogue!

2008-02-22T12:14:00.002-05:00

Shalom family and friends! Since we arrived here, I have been trying to find great Shabbat experiences and develop my own Shabbat practices and family Shabbat practices. In my Liturgy class, during the first semester, we were asked to write journal entries every few weeks discussing our unique Shabbat experiences, and what we observed in the Synagogues around town. I have had quite a few uniquely special Shabbat experiences throughout Jerusalem from Carlebach services at Yakar and Shirah Chadasha to Reform services at Har-El and Kol Haneshamah!

I had decided at the beginning of the year that I would go at least to one Shabbat service a week, whether it was Friday night or Shabbat morning. And, in some instances, I attended services on Friday and Saturday. There have only been a few Shabbatot where I have missed services. Tonight, I had an extraordinarily amazing Shabbat experience! I went with my friend PJ to the Jerusalem Great Synagogue. This Synagogue looks like what "The Temple" would look like if it were around today. Or, at least it's pretty close, and pretty amazing from the outside. When we walked inside, it just got bigger. We had to go upstairs to enter the Sanctuary, and it was huge and incredibly beautiful. The Ark was amazing.

Then, Mincha (afternoon services) began. It was a pretty normal Orthodox service. It was enjoyable, especially since I could follow along. Then Kabbalat Shabbat (just before Maariv-Evening Services) began. There was an all male choir that sounded like an orchestra of instruments on the Bima (raised platform). They were amazingly good. And, when the Chazan (Cantor/Soloist) began, it was like a voice from God. The Synagogue was filled with all types of people from Yeshiva students to the most Orthodox to non-Jews. The services were very spiritual and enjoyable. It was the most amazing Shabbat service I have experienced in Israel. I certainly plan on returning there again!

This week, we are headed south for our southern tiyul. We are going to a couple of Kibbutzim, camping out in a Bedouin tent, and even going snorkeling in Eilat. I think the best part of the Tiyul for me will be the hiking. I haven't been hiking in a long time, and I love to hike, so I am looking forward to this week! I'll post some pictures when we return!

Shabbat Shalom!

Snow in Jerusalem, Take 2!

2008-02-19T02:23:00.002-05:00

Really? I've learned a lot of things in my life, especially in the past 8 months. One thing I learned very young was that weather forecasters in the States were either always wrong, or sometimes right. All those times they predicted snow or other types of weather that would have cancelled school (especially the days before tests or big projects) were always wrong. Undoubtedly, I was never prepared because I expected them to be right...big mistake.

In Israel, the forecasters are right about 99% of the time. That number may be a little high, but they have successfully predicted snow, twice. And from what I've been told, this kind of snow only happens once in every seven years...we've now had it twice. We've more than doubled the amount of snow we're going to see in Cinci next year. Of course, we'll have real heat in our house, and the misery of this winter will be a distant memory.

In the past couple of weeks, we've been pretty busy. I took Batya to a great restaurant, El Gaucho (ALL STEAK), for Valentine's Day. It was nice to go on a date, and we have some great friends who have been very helpful by offering to watch Carlie from time to time to give us a night out. We also met with the Dean of the Cinci Campus, Rabbi Ken Kanter. He is a really great guy, and he brought us gifts from the States, and lots of information to get us ready and excited for the next four years, and more specifically our return to the States in May.

It was sad to say goodbye to our parents, but we are now in the midst of second semester, and we are starting to get sad for all of the wonderful things we'll miss when we leave in just a few months. This has been a great experience (at least for the most part)! Our football team finished up the playoffs, unfortunately losing in the first round. Some of the calls by the refs were quite questionable, but we had a great fun season!

The biggest thing that has happened recently was saying goodbye to a great friend and classmate and his family. They had to return to the States for very personal reasons, of which I am not so comfortable speaking about publicly. It's important to keep them in our prayers and we are sending lots of love and support to the Spinrad family from our house to theirs!

Oh, and the New York Football Giants---who would have thought, huh? I was in a room full of Patriots fans, but my love for the Giants never waivered! Let's hope for a great season next year! Now, we turn our attention to the Atlanta Braves, and what promises to be a great baseball season!

Remember to hold your families close, give them lots of hugs and love!
L'Hitraot!
Erin

SNOW IN JERUSALEM!!!

2008-01-30T09:53:00.000-05:00

Really? I didn't expect to see snow this year. We have now seen snow twice in the past week, first in Athens (for about 15 minutes) and today in Jerusalem. Actually, it started snowing late last night, and is expected to continue through tonight. Everything shuts down...schools, restaurants, businesses, etc. It's a bit like Yom Kippur, but with some cars on the road, and REALLY COLD!!!

I'll post some pictures of this, it's pretty fantastic. Except for our apartment being freezing, it's pretty cool. I know we'll have to get used to this because it will be like this in Cinci next year, but next year we'll have working heat and we'll be living in a place that doesn't leak. We have several leaks in our laundry room and one in our kitchen. So, just like when we first moved in, we have been using towels to keep the floors dry, and we just hope we don't run out of towels!

Anyway, school starts next week, and we are looking forward to a great semester. I did pretty well first semester: 5 B's and 3 A's. It seems I am cut out for this, and I am glad to know that I've kept my good study habits from college which sometimes seems like many years ago. Anyway, the NY Football Giants are in the Super Bowl, so Sunday night/Monday morning will be a LONG night, and then Batya's Mom heads out Monday. It will be a long few days, but we'll get back to our normal lives next week, and then just a few short months before we are home.

I'll write some more next week!
Stay warm!

Two More Things

2008-01-26T13:49:00.001-05:00

I need to tell you about our dinner last night and tonight. Last night, when we returned from our day cruise, Susan had made dinner. It was seasoned chicken with pasta pomodoro. IT WAS AMAZING!!! If you have any question as to the cooking abilities in my family, then you need to eat some of Susan's cooking!

Tonight, we went to a great steak restaurant called Argentina. The steak was outstanding. It wasn't as good as Susan's cooking, but it was pretty darn good.

I'll write more next week....and I'll post pictures from Greece on my webshots page soon.

L'hitraot!

Vacation in Greece with Susan, Scott and Kaylin

2008-01-26T08:29:00.000-05:00

Well, we've been in Athens, Greece for about 3 days now. I always have loved Athens, Georgia(GO DAWGS!!!), but Athens, Greece is pretty awesome too! We arrived on Wednesday night. Carlie was really great on the plane...she bounced back and forth from my lap to Batya's lap to Mom's lap! We arrived a bit late, but it was really great to see Susan waiting for us when we arrived.

After a good night's sleep, we headed to the mall in Athens with Susan and Kaylin to do some shopping for Carlie. We bought her a few pairs of shoes, and had lunch at Ruby Tuesdays!!! It was our first American meal in 6 months...and boy do we enjoy it. Susan, Scott and Kaylin's house is VERY pretty and they have helped to make us feel very welcome. It's so nice to be with family as we miss home soooooo much! And, it's nice to shower in a clean shower!

Yesterday, we left the house at 6:30 am to catch a bus to a day cruise. We sailed to two islands, Poros and Aegina. We were able to take some time to walk around the islands and take some great pictures. The only bad thing was that Carlie got sick and threw up on the bus on the second island. We have learned that Carlie very easily gets carsick and really can't sit anywhere but the front of buses!

Every single person on the boat loved Carlie...and I should have started to charge people because everyone wanted pictures with Carlie. We could have made a fortune...maybe next time. We have two and a half more days in Athens. We are really having a great time, and I am now getting excited about 2nd semester and the new classes I will take. Next semester I will be continuing with Hebrew, modern and biblical, taking a history course on the Arab/Israeli conflict, continuing with Liturgy, and taking a Rabbinics class. In this class, we'll be looking at the Talmud and Midrash....from the Rabbinic period. I am very excited for it.

One more note...it's official! Carlie, Batya and I will be at Capital Camps in Pennsylvania this summer. I will be working as a village director for 13 and 14 year olds while Batya will be working in either the office or the infirmary. Carlie will be with a babysitter all day getting to experience all of camp life! It will be a lot of fun!

Only 4 months to go....this semester should pass really quickly. I'll post again next week during the first week of 2nd semester! Oh, btw, our HUC football team is the 4th seed in the playoffs with our first playoff game the first Tuesday in February. Wish us luck!!!

L'hitraot for now!

Dad's Visit to Israel

2008-01-18T11:05:00.000-05:00

You don't know how excited I was to finally see Dad on Saturday at the airport! Although it had only been 6 months since I had seen him, it felt like years. But, there he was, sitting in the airport waiting for me to come and get him. After we sat in the Sherut Cab for what seemed like an hour, we were on our way to Jerusalem. We walked in the front door of our apartment, and Dad was greeted with, "Pop Pop!!" from Carlie. Needless to say, Dad was excited to receive such a warm greeting. The reunion of Dad and Carlie was very cute!

This week, we've done quite a bit. We went to the Old City and saw the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the Western Wall, and walked through the Arab Market. We also took Dad to our bi weekly shopping location, Super Deal! This store has a lot of American products, and it's pretty reasonably priced. We've also gone to the top of the YMCA tower for quite a view! I think Dad enjoyed taking a tour of HUC...and I know I was pretty proud to show him around. After spending so much time there, it was a relief to just be walking around without having to stress about any homework or tests!

I took Dad to Yad Vashem. He was there last summer, but I wanted to give him the chance to see it again. At night, on Tuesday night, we went to the Israel Museum. We saw the Dead Sea Scrolls, and the model of Herod's 2nd temple Jerusalem. It was cold outside, but it was an enjoyable visit. Yesterday, we went to Kumran, to see the history of the group that wrote the Dead Sea Scrolls and Ein Gedi, a beautiful nature reserve with a lot of waterfalls!

When you visit Ein Gedi, there are some pretty interesting hikes. There is also a pretty difficult hike that is intended for pretty fit hikers. Dad and I made that hike, and I was very proud of him. It was tough, and Dad was very scared, but he did it. It took us about two and a half hours, but when we reached the top, the views were amazing and well worth the hike. Dad joked several times that I had almost killed him, but in reality although it was very hard, neither of us were ever in real danger.

Today, we went to Bethlehem. I took Dad to see the "Fence, Wall, Barrier," or whatever else it is called. I also wanted Dad to meet my friend Tamer, a very educated and nice man who works for peace from the Palestinian side. We went to the Church of the Nativity and had a great lunch at an awesome restaurant "The Tent Restaurant." Tomorrow, we are going to Shabbat morning services at HUC, and then off to the airport for Dad's return trip to the States. It will be sad to see him go, but Batya's Mom comes to visit, so we're looking forward to that!

We've posted some more pictures from Dad's visit, and we'll post some more from Greece and Mom's visit...and also from Carlie's 2nd Birthday party!

Shabbat Shalom!

2nd Semester Rabbinical Student!!!

2008-01-12T03:25:00.000-05:00

Yep, that's right! I finished my exams on Wednesday, and it's now really beginning to hit me that I finished my first semester as a Rabbinical student! I have to admit that while many of my classmates were very stressed about Finals, I was never really stressed about it. With so many other things going on in my life, I haven't had time! Besides, I went to classes and did the homework. In reality, the exams tested us on what we studied, so I thought they were very fair!

The past 2 days have just been about relaxing and getting the apartment clean and ready for Dad to come (TODAY!!!) and Batya's Mom next week. We're excited to get a taste of the States by seeing our family. We probably would have enjoyed going to the States, but seeing our family here in Israel will be great. And, if we had gone back to the States, we wouldn't have been able to go to Greece!

So, today it's me and Carlie! Batya is babysitting most of the day. Just a good "Aba/Carlie day!" We have fun during these days! I promise to take lots of pictures while Dad and Mom are in town, and I'll get them up to Webshots by the beginning of February. We'll have some great shots in Greece, I am sure.

What's amazing to me, and this occurred to me while I was taking my exams, is how much information and knowledge I have gained this semester. HUC tells us all the time to "Test the Process." It's really true. I never would have guessed how much I could have learned this year, and I am really looking forward to next semester when I begin studying about the Rabbinic Period and the Talmud. As I've said before, each day, each class brings me something new, and I can't wait to see what happens next!

I'll post next week while Dad is here...until then, L'Hitraot!

Broken finger on Christmas???

2008-01-03T15:10:00.000-05:00

That's right, I did it again, and this time on Christmas! In the first 31 years of my life, the only broken bone I had was my left femur. In 6 months in Israel, I have severely dislocated one finger (the pinkie on my left hand) and broken another (the index finger on my right hand). You see, I play on the HUC football team in the American Football in Israel league(AFI--http://www.israelfootball.net/, click on the TNFL link). We are the HUCstables, and I am Grandpa Russell! Well, we were playing our second game against Pardes, the only other religious institution that supplies a team in our league. It was the last play of the 1st half...it should have been a touchdown pass. Instead, it was an incomplete pass (a great defensive play by the Pardes player) and a broken finger for me! It could have been worse as it was a small fracture in the finger. The good news is that I get to take the "cast" off on Monday just before my first final.

That's right, finals...the first set of finals at the end of my first semester in Rabbinical school! It's awesome that I've made it to this point. It was a long, very demanding semester, but I made it. And, as for my finals, I definitely feel I am prepared. I attended class 99% of the time, and completed all assignments. All that is left is for me to study...and then take the exams. I am excited and nervous at the same time!

I want to say something about New Years in Israel. It was a pretty quiet night. After putting Carlie to sleep, Batya and I settled down to watch some TV and enjoy a bottle of wine. There were a couple of parties hosted by my HUC classmates, but I just enjoyed a quiet night with Batya watching some football. We are enjoying our time here, but we are getting quite homesick. My Dad is coming to visit next weekend and then Batya's Mom is coming to visit after that. It will be a great needed rest, and we are excited. Of course, going to Athens, Greece to visit Susan, Scott and Kaylin at the end of January will also be awesome!

I'll try and write some more after exams...what a great relief it will be to have those finished!

Until then...

Getting Ready for the New Year?

2007-12-23T07:25:00.000-05:00

This past weekend was awesome! I am working in a program called "Hillel Shabbat Scholars." Shabbat Scholars are students from the Jewish educational institutions in Jerusalem who meet up with a Hillel (Jewish Federations on universities and colleges throughout the world) Birthright group and help the leaders with services, trips, programming etc. on Shabbat. I was able to meet up with one of my good friends, Philip Schlossberg, the Director of Hillel at Purdue University. I led a Reform Friday evening Shabbat service, helped lead a group of students to the Old City on Shabbat, and led Havdalah services on Saturday night. It was really nice using some of what I have learned this year and putting it "into action." It was also great to catch up with Skippy since I hadn't seen him since my wedding!

In other news...we are getting ready to spend our first ever New Years not in the States. As a matter of fact, it's kind of a joke here. The Jewish new year was back in September, so the only ones preparing for a new year here are non-Israelis! I am not sure what we'll do yet, but we are surely missing the typical preparations as in the states...parades, football and family! And, tomorrow, Christmas Eve, is a regular day of classes for me. As a matter of fact, I'll be in class for the first time in my life on Christmas!

Batya, Carlie and I are getting very excited for Dad and Mom to come visit, and of course going to Greece to visit Susan, Scott and Kaylin! It will be a much needed rest, and a great time to recuperate from these long 6 months. I don't have much else to write about, but I will try and get a post up next week after Christmas and New Years in Israel!

Hannukah in Jerusalem

2007-12-08T13:17:00.000-05:00

Jerusalem on Hannukah is VERY different from Hannukah in the States. I am sure those of you who read my blog are thinking to yourselves, Duh! But, it's truly different. For one, I haven't seen one Christmas Tree or heard one Christmas Carol. It's a bit unusual, for sure. I do miss hearing Christmas Carols.

I have to say, though, that it has been very nice to see Hannukah commercials on the television, and Latkes and Sufganiyot everywhere! Everyone we run into says, Happy Hannukah! It's very nice! We spent this past Thursday evening lighting candles and having dinner with some friends we have met and several of my classmates, and their children. It was truly festive, and VERY enjoyable!

I know this is a short blog, but I just wanted to get some thoughts about Hannukah out there for people to see! I'll try and write another blog in a couple of weeks. Finals for this semester are coming up very quickly, and I am very busy with my studies. Carlie is home for the next week as her Gan is closed, so we are getting to spend some real quality time with her! Batya is being a real support for me, and I am thankful they are both here!

Happy Hannukah!

HUC Tiyul #2

2007-11-30T14:07:00.000-05:00

These last 3 days have been pretty extraordinary! We took a trip to visit some pretty interesting places. Our first stop on Wednesday was Caesaria. Of course, there probably weren't many Jews there, as this was a city built as a tribute to Caesar. But, the amphitheatre there was a great site and is the site of one of the worst stories in Jewish history, the public killing of Rabbi Akiva. This stop was a quick one, so we didn't spend too much time on the history of the place, but it was nice to see the Mediterranean sea up close!

Our next stop was in Zippori, another Roman city, but the site of where Rabbi Yehudah HaNasi edited the Mishnah, the first written recording of the Oral Torah. There were some pretty interesting things there, including an ancient Synagogue that had a beautiful mosaic floor. Also, in Zippori, we saw an old Roman home with the "Mona Lisa" of the Galilee. For more information on Zippori, check out: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zippori.

From Zippori, we went to Tiberias, and stayed at a pretty amazing hotel, the Dona Gracia Hotel. I totally recommend checking this place out and staying there if you are ever in Tiberias! It's very eclectic, and the hotel staff was very friendly! There isn't much of a night life in Tiberias, so it was off to bed after some introductory history of Kabbalah and Jewish mysticism with Moshe!

Thursday, we went to Tsfat. I had been to Tsfat before, but it was nice to go again. We met with a Kabbalistic artist named Avram. He was really interesting, and I bought a couple of his pieces of artwork. I also bought a book on Jewish spirituality, and I am looking forward to reading it. After lunch, a bunch of us went through the cemetery in Tsfat. We saw some pretty famous graves, and the history there is amazing! Thursday night, we went to Haifa, and we had dinner and hung out pretty late. It was fun, and since I love Haifa, I really had a great time.

On Friday, we went to visit the Leo Baeck school. This is a truly amazing place with a kindergarten, primary school, middle school, high school, and lots of adult education. This was an awesome place where they use many different methods to teach people of all ages, all socioeconomic classes, and all cultures. These people are very special, and Leo Baeck is a great place in a great location in Haifa.

Then, it was back to Jerusalem, where I was very happy to see Carlie and Batya again. It was a short tiyul, but I missed my family, and I am glad to be back home!

Happy Hannukah!

Being an American Football Fan living in a "Football" World

2007-11-04T12:57:00.000-05:00

I haven't spent much time in this blog speaking about how it is living as an American in a foreign country. I would like to spend the majority of this blog addressing this. Let me just put this out there first. I am a Zionist, I always have been a Zionist, and I always will be a Zionist. My love for Eretz Yisrael is spiritual, religious, and among many other things unconditional. This doesn't mean I love everything about Israel. On the contrary, there are many things about Israel I don't love.

It is quite difficult at times to be an American in Israel, whether it's the lack of language ability or just the cultural differences in the approach to common communication. What strikes me as most difficult are the little things, the less than really important things...i.e., watching football, that is American football, not to get confused with the "real football." And, trust me, as an avid soccer fan, player and coach for many years, I do love soccer. But to an American, there is only one kind of football, and it doesn't involve a round ball.

Let's also discuss the fact that American Jews really have a difficult time being American football fans. After all, the ball used is not so kosher---it's a pigskin. But, I digress. As a die hard University of Georgia football fan, I have enjoyed watching them play for quite a long time...and it's not the easiest thing to do in Israel. First, there's the time change. Than, there's the fact that Israeli television only plays ACC and Big 12 football games. Sometimes, they play PAC 10 games...but there is only one a week. So, while I watch the football game from the less than real conference on tv, I listen over the internet to the UGA game. And, let me tell you...listening to UGA destroy the University of Florida gators wasn't as great as watching it!

We are having a great time here...with our weekly trip to visit our Ethiopian family in Meveseret Zion, an absorption center, and all the other wonderful things we do...including breakfast together (while Carlie is in daycare) on Fridays! We realize our time is flying by here, and we can't wait to see Dad and Mom in January!

Here's to more FOOTBALL and less "football!"

L'Hitraot!

Confusion in the West Bank

2007-10-19T11:00:00.001-04:00

When I heard about the Encounter organization, I was quite interested (http://www.encounterprograms.org/home.html). One of my classmates sent me an email about a trip that Encounter was leading into the West Bank, into Bethlehem. I remembered a conversation I had with my sister in law a couple of years ago that inspired me to apply to be a participant on this trip. She helped me to realize I didn't know an awful lot about the present Israeli/Palestinian Conflict. I was sure I didn't agree with her, but I couldn't disagree with her either. I had to see things for myself. And although HUC has an incredible program, I knew I wouldn't be able to experience anything like this with HUC.

Thank God I was accepted to attend this trip. Rather than give an overall view of my experiences, I would like to speak specifically about each part of the experience. Here goes:

Driving into the West Bank, I didn't really feel any fear as many of the other participants felt. I wasn't scared for my life and I certainly didn't expect to experience any one thing in particular. We exited our bus and walked up a hill past a demolished home. It was explained to us that this was the home of a Palestinian extremist that had been blown up by the Israeli Defense Force. I had never seen a demolished house before. But, I pressed on.

The next place we stopped was at a truly remarkable school, the Hope Flowers School in El-Khader (http://www.hopeflowersschool.org/community.html). This school was the vision of Hussein Issa who said, "To suffer for peace is much better than to suffer for war." What an amazing thing to think and live. He started this school to teach young Muslim, Christian and Jewish children that non-violent, peaceful action was the way to achieve peace. This became a licensed school in 1989, and we were given the opportunity to draw and color with some of the children in the school. These kids were great, and I hope the knowledge they learn in school will one day help them to a better life!

We were then taken on a tour of the separation barrier around Bethlehem. I saw a movie a couple of years ago called "The Iron Wall." I remember thinking that this was a movie filled with propaganda to get people to feel sorry for the Palestinians. This was no separation barrier. This was a gigantic, intimidating wall that gave only one impression, to shut people out. I was terrified as I was looking at this huge wall, and I felt sadness for the Palestinians in Bethlehem. At the same time, I was impressed with some of the messages of peace drawn and written on the wall.

I was able to spend some time speaking with a very nice Palestinian Muslim named Tamer Halaseh. He said, "The Wall hurts the Israelis as much as it hurts the Palestinians." What a powerful statement. When I asked him to explain what he meant, he explained to me that the Wall continues to add to the already massive amounts of hatred and fear from Palestinians and Israelis to each other. This is a Muslim man who hates fighting and only wants to solve the conflict through peaceful ways. He has many great ideas, and I hope to continue my new friendship with him. I truly believe we can learn an awful lot from each other.

After a very delicious lunch and Minhah (afternoon services), we met with a couple of Palestinian Muslims who agreed to share their personal narratives with us. All of the speakers are employees of peaceful organizations working toward a non-violent solution. What struck me the most was the claim by these individuals that Hamas, the elected government in the Palestinian lands, was actually a good organization. We were told that what the media portrays about Hamas is not correct, and they are actually nice people. I was a bit confused, and certainly tried to be a respectful as possible. I asked one of the speakers, a nice man named Bassam, about his feelings toward Hamas. He explained that although he is a member of the Fatah party, the opposition party to Hamas, he supports Hamas. He told me that because the international community stopped financially supporting Hamas, they couldn't accomplish any of the things they wanted to accomplish. I guess this makes sense, but I am still a bit weary of Hamas.

We then met with some youth leaders from the Holy Land Trust, Peace and Reconciliation group. Their executive officer, Eilda Zaghmout was very nice and a great inspiration toward a peaceful resolution. We spent some fun time getting to know some of these youth leaders. Then we went to dinner with our new friends at a restaurant called "The Tent" in Beit Sahour. Dinner was outstanding, and it was just a great night of camaraderie. We spent a lot of time just chatting and getting to know each other. After a VERY long day, it was great to wind down. There I met my host for the evening, a very nice guy named Jiries Sa'di. His family is Christian, and they were very gracious to me and one of my classmates. We stayed up late discussing our views of the conflict. Actually, I asked a lot of questions, and listened to the answers. I learned quite a bit. For example, these very nice people are only allowed to enter into Jerusalem for about a month a year, and this is only if they are given a permit by the Israeli government.

Today was a very different day. While I awoke with a lot in my mind and a lot of new knowledge, today really scared me, actually terrified me. We started out visiting a village, Al Walage, which will be completely surrounded by the Wall that Israel is building. I don't need to tell you that this was a very sore subject for the members of that village. As a matter of fact, the woman who spoke with us actually stated that there were a few times in her life (for example waiting for hours on end just to get through a check point to travel to other parts of the West Bank) in which she actually felt she would have been able to kill an Israeli. This was very hard to hear, and I was a bit terrified. For the first time during this trip, I was almost brought to tears...

The most horrific part of my trip was leaving the West Bank and going back into Jerusalem. I really felt that I was entering into a prison, and this was entering into Israel. That, however, wasn't the hardest part. When we came to the checkpoint to enter into Israel, there was a line of Palestinians trying to get home from Jerusalem. They just let us through without even looking at our passports. These men were helpless, and all I could do was apologize.

If we, as Jews, want to be a "light unto the nations," we have to do some soul searching and realize that to take away the basic human rights of Palestinians isn't the answer. This doesn't mean I believe the blame lies directly on the Israelis. But, it doesn't lie directly on the Palestinians either. Who came first, the chicken or the egg? Do we view a person that has no hope in life who wants revenge as the victim, aggressor, or just a part of the problem? Do we view a person who builds land to further their claim to the land (either Palestinian or Israeli) the aggressor? Do we view the IDF soldier who is following his orders the aggressor? Or, do we view the person who blows himself up as the aggressor?

Clearly, their are multiple sides to this conflict. I don't have the answer, but I want to help find it. I am willing to go to the West Bank to meet with Palestinians to hear their stories and to meet with Jerusalem Israelis to hear their stories. Our last meeting today was with a representative of the Palestinian Authority. He suggested that we don't pick a side. He asked that we keep our loyalties to ourselves to enable us to speak to both sides. Only when we keep an open mind and try to understand each other will we be truly able to begin searching for peace.

Please follow the link to my webshots page and check out my pictures!
May it be God's Will!

Mifgash with Ethiopian Jews and the FIRST RAIN!!

2007-10-17T11:49:00.000-04:00

Wow! I have been told that the first rain of the year comes all of a sudden. I have been told it's pretty intense. Nothing prepared me for what we experienced this evening! I was sitting in a coffee shop with some friends putting together our website for our Pesach Project in the Former Soviet Union. All of a sudden, there was a huge BOOM and a giant flash of lightning. Then the rain came! People in the coffee shop were all smiling, as we were all ready for the rain. When you've experienced nothing but dry weather for months on end without a drop of rain, when the rain actually comes, it's pretty exciting!

On another note, Carlie, Batya and I had our first experience with our Ethiopian family. As part of our requirements here at HUC, we work with an organization that arranges Mifgashim (encounters) with Ethiopian families who have moved to Israel in an absorption center. We were a bit nervous at first, but once we went in the home of our family, we felt quite comfortable. The kids spoke Hebrew, so we were able to communicate quite well with them.

The Mom was very gracious and kept giving us popcorn and coffee. It was really great coffee! We had a great time, and can't wait to go next week. We hope to learn a little of their language, and we'll have pictures soon!

One more thing...while were in Mevaserret Zion (the absorption center), Carlie fell down and bumped her chin on the corner of a table in the house we were visiting. She bit her tongue, and there was quite a lot of blood. We were pretty scared, and Carlie of course was screaming for about 1o minutes. But, she recovered with only a little spot on her tongue, and her teeth made it out ok! We were pretty worried, but thank God she's fine!

L'hitraot!

Independence Hall and the Palmach Museum

2007-10-12T06:41:00.000-04:00

On Wednesday, we took our 2nd tiyul for the Israeli Seminar. We left Jerusalem at 8:30 am, and traveled to Tel Aviv, to Independence Hall, the site of the official declaration of the new State of Israel. Although, I had been to Independence Hall several times in my life, this time was different.

Of course, I knew all of the same things that most people knew…the dates, the locations, etc. But, I had no idea of the hidden desires of those who settled in Israel in the late 19th and early 20th century. After the first two Israeli Seminars, I thought I was beginning to understand the ideas of the “New Jew.” However, this past week’s readings and tiyul showed me just how much I need to learn and how much I desire to know! When I read through the Israeli Declaration of Independence, I saw many of the same things I have seen every other time I read this document. But, I could sense there was more. I didn’t feel as if I was getting the full meaning behind the words.

This time, as I was sitting with my classmates in a coffee shop and discussing the time period of the beginnings of the "new Jew," I began to get a sense of the real desire and intense yearning for their own land. It wasn't a state they wanted...it was a land they belonged to, a land that cried out for them. That is such an amazing thing, and I am beginning to feel that as well. I am very happy with my life in the United States, but I feel my life wouldn't truly be complete without the existence of Israel, and my ability to come here and feed my yearning to be here!

Our next stop (after lunch---we went to a great little Humus restaurant) was to the Palmach museum. When this museum was being built, it was a bit of a controversial topic. The Palmach was an elite force of the Haganah, one of the three armies that formed in Israel pre-state. These guys were trained by the British to help the British defend against the Nazis in the South and a growing army in the North. However, once the British no longer needed them, they were asked to disband. Of course, they continued underground, and became a very elite fighting force which includes such important Israelis like Yitzhkak Rabin!

The museum itself was amazing, and I recommend it to anyone who visits Israel. Once you enter, the doors close, and you go through 12 rooms experiencing every step from joining the Palmach to training to wartime and everything in between. I won't give away the end of the museum, but unfortunately, the Palmach was disbanded and asked to join the new Israeli army just before the war for independence. Many of the members of Palmach became leaders in the new Israeli army and have served in the Israeli government since it was created.

The museum was awesome!

I am glad to be back in the swing of things and having 2 hours of homework everyday really keeps me focused. I am really enjoying my time here, and I hope I am able to give you guys a glimpse into my experiences!

Shabbat Shalom!

Flip's Trip to Eretz Yisrael

2007-10-08T13:48:00.000-04:00

I can honestly say that it was a tremendous treat to have one of our closest American friends visiting for a week. Preparing for Flip's visit was a lot of work, but with the help of a good friend here in Jerusalem, I was able to put together a pretty good trip. We were able to experience many different faces of Israel, from the Druze near Haifa to the Black Hebrews in Dimona. I will do my best to remember each and every funny and interesting event from his visit.

First of all, renting a car in Israel is very different from renting a car in the States. First of all, the cars are very small, and they get terrible gas mileage. With gas prices being as high as they are, that's a double whammy. I picked Flip up from the airport in Tel Aviv and we stayed at a very simple but nice hotel called Center Hotel in Tel Aviv. Flip was a real trooper as we went out quite late for a beer with an Israeli friend his first night!

We awoke fairly early the next morning to begin our tiyul (trip). We started at Independence Hall, where the country of Israel was declared on May 14, 1948. It was a pretty amazing sight! I had been there before, but it was nice to be there again. What was interesting here was that no Israelis knew what we were talking about. We even asked a few police officers about a block away where it was and they didn't know!

We left Tel Aviv and went to Cesaria. Seeing this place was a lot of fun, with a great amount of ruins! The Roman aquaducts were pretty great to see! It was a good day of weather too! From Cesaria we drove up to have dinner in the Bedouin village of Dalyat El Carmel. These people were very gracious, and the food was great! We tried to visit Akko, but there was a big festival going on, so we couldn't get in!

We stayed at a nice hotel in Ma'alot called Hacienda Forestview. The food was great, and the putt putt course was very funny, to say the least. I certainly didn't expect to see putt putt in the middle of Israel! We were able to stop in Tsfat, and it was nice to stroll through the Old City! Our day had only began, as we went to visit the border with Lebanon in Metullah, and then went to see Syria at Har Ben Tal (Mount Ben Tal). Our drive down through the West Bank to Jerusalem was uneventful, thank God!

While in Jerusalem, we visited the Old City, all of the major sites, including the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, The Tower of David Museum, and we also went on to the Temple Mount to see the Dome of the Rock. Of course, it was really exciting, and a wonderful new experience for me! We also went through Hezekiah's Tunnel in the City of David, and although it was very cold, I love going through that tunnel! What was an amazing experience was being at the Kotel on Shabbat evening. It was full of Kavanah (intention/focus), and it was very inspiring to watch as Flip went and prayed at the stones of the Western Wall.

One of the most inspiring parts of Flip's tiyul was our encounter in Dimona with the Black Hebrews. I was totally impressed with the Black Hebrews. They were very welcoming, and they are a very determined people who lead simple lives based on what they feel is the right way to live. What is the most special about the Black Hebrews is that they are very welcoming and not critical of others. They don't expect others to "do it there way," but are always willing to talk and explain their lifestyle.

There were other things that were amazing, like our sunrise Massada hike, but as this blog is already very long, I am going to wrap this up. I was sad to see Flip go, but our trip was so much fun and so worth the work to get it ready. I hope Flip had a great time, as I surely did!

Check out the pictures I posted!

L'Hitraot!

HUC Tiyul up North

2007-09-25T17:36:00.000-04:00

I have said this already, and I will continue to say it...the program at HUC is invaluable. I learn something new every day and I am always looking forward to what I will learn next. These past 3 days, we have been places I have already been to in my life. However, I learned so much more. From the Biblical perspective of the Kingdom of Israel in the North at Tel Dan to the animal bones found in the 300 communities found from the Iron Age in the West Bank...I learned so much.

Being so close to Lebanon and Syria, you would have expected to be terrified. In actuality, I felt safer up in the North than I have felt since we've been here. The air was clean and pure. The views were breathtaking and everything was so clean! Our hostel on the Kinneret was beautiful and we really enjoyed being together in the evenings just relaxing and living!

At Tel Dan, we learned about the tension between the Kingdom of Judah in the South and the Kingdom of Israel in the North. We also learned that the Bible we read today was written from the point of view of the Southern Kingdom. Many, many differences including the idea of golden calves, which in the Northern Kingdom were just places for God to sit, God's throne. But, according to the Kingdom in the South, the Golden Calves were worshipped, and were bad news. Who knows what we would have learned if the Torah was written in the perspective of the North?

I really enjoyed our trip to the North. I can't wait to take Batya and Carlie there to show them the beauty of the North. A trip to Israel without seeing the North is not complete. And, besides, the Chalutzim (Pioneers) did so much to ensure we would be able to see the North; it would be a shame to not visit and pay respect to the work that was done to make the area beautiful! Check out my webshots page for some pretty great pictures!

L'Hitraot!

Yom Kippur in Jerusalem

2007-09-22T23:59:00.000-04:00

Yom Kippur has always been about renewal for me. Renewing my soul, renewing everything about myself and complete Teshuvah (repentance). I knew it would be hard to fast this year, as the weather in Jerusalem isn't the most conducive to fasting. However, this was something I needed to do. I had been told my many people that there was nothing like Yom Kippur in Jerusalem. Sitting in services all day, listening to Cantor Eli Schleifer and our beautiful HUC choir made things completely bearable and very spiritual. But that wasn't it. Looking through the windows in the Chapel and seeing the walls of the Old City was very spiritual, but that wasn't it either. Sitting next to Batya during the Yizkor (Memorial) service was difficult, but that wasn't it either.

It was Jerusalem. The city that seems to never be void of cars honking, people talking loud, music always booming...this city which I have grown a complete love for and sometimes a strong distaste for, was quiet! There were no cars on the road (except a few ambulances). All of the traffic lights were out. All that was on the road were walkers and bike riders. It was amazing. And, most everyone was wearing white. It was as if for one day, everyone forgot about all of our differences and baayot (problems) and just remembered. Remembered that it was time to forget, forgive and ask forgiveness. This is what I will take away from Yom Kippur in Jerusalem. The serenity, peace, and quiet!

We are going on a 3 day Tiyul this morning to the North. I promise to take a bunch of pictures and I will post them on Tuesday night or Wednesday morning. For now, I wish for everyone a peaceful and healthy new year filled with spirituality, happiness, and love!

Gamar Hatima Tovah!

First Israeli Seminar Day

2007-09-19T13:24:00.000-04:00

Today was quite a day! I know I have said something similar to that with most of my posts, but there are so many "wow" moments in this program. One of the great opportunities and privileges about being a Rabbinical student at HUC is a program called the Israeli Seminar Days. Each of these days will have their own identity, and today was an introduction to the program. After a few minutes going over the syllabus, we went on a short walk to the back of the King David Hotel. The King David Hotel is the site of a bombing by one of the first underground armies in Israel. This bombing was an attempt to show the British how serious the Jews in Israel were about having their own sovereignty.

After we arrived at our spot, we were asked to think about kodak moments in our lives that really spoke about our experiences or feelings about Israel. It was pretty easy for me to speak about my moments, but what I really was shocked to hear were my classmates' experiences. They opened their hearts and these memories just poured out. Each memory of my classmates brought up new memories of my own. This moment with my classmates really opened my mind, and now this is one of the kodak snapshot moments which define my experiences and relationship with Israel.

I am looking forward to Yom Kippur in Israel. It will truly be a hard day, but will be one I really appreciate when I look back on it. Then we take a 3 day tiyul next week. We are going to the North, and I will take lots of pictures!

YMCA, Makhtesh Ramon, and Shlichot

2007-09-09T10:45:00.000-04:00

Wow, lots to write about.

First and foremost, we finally were able to get Carlie into a Gan (Preschool/kindergarten). The YMCA had an opening, and it is less than $400 a month. I take her to school in the morning, around 8 am, and Batya picks her up at 1 pm. It's great...they even feed her breakfast! This is going to allow Batya to take an Ulpan that is Sunday - Thursday from 9 am - 12 pm. Then, she can join me for lunch! We are extremely happy about this!

Some friends and I went with one of the voice teachers at HUC on a 23 kilometer - 15 mile - hike on Friday and Saturday. We went to the Makhtesh Ramon, a giant crater south of Jerusalem. It really is beautiful, and it was awesome to camp out on Friday night. The night sky was gorgeous...I believe we were able to see 10000000 stars at least! The hiking was pretty intense, and my body is a bit sore right now, but it was a lot of fun and well worth it! Unfortunately, I forgot my camera, so I didn't get any pictures, but trust me it was beautiful. We saw some wildlife as well, including a ton of birds. I am very sorry I won't be able to go back to the Makhtesh when others do the overnight hike next month!

Last night at 10 pm, we went to a Conservative Ashkenazic Synagogue. We went to experience Shlichot in an Ashkenazic Synagogue. It was short and very spiritual. I enjoyed it, but my body was so sore, that I really had a very hard time concentrating. I still thought it was spiritual, and nice to share that experience with a bunch of my HUC classmates.

Classes began last week, and I finally feel like a Rabbinical student. I will admit that I am going to spend A LOT of time studying, and it is going to be hard. But, it will be worth it as I have dreamed about this for a long time. I am just very fortunate to have Batya and Carlie here to share these experiences with me.

We are now getting ready for the Jewish new year, Rosh Hashanah, and starting to really think about Teshuvah, repentance, as we prepare for the Jewish day of atonement, Yom Kippur. I will write and share my experiences of Jerusalem during this time a little later in this week and next!

Jewish Quarter, Auschwitz Day 3, and Salt Mines

2007-08-28T15:42:00.000-04:00

Well, yesterday we all went to the Jewish Quarter. We took some really nice pictures, and both of the synagogues, the Progressive one and the Orthodox one were gorgeous. The Progressive one was actually quite a bit bigger, but the Orthodox one had a HUGE cemetary. I'll have pictures up tomorrow. Of course, as we were leaving the Progressive synagogue, Carlie vomited all over herself and her stroller. This is the first time she's done that in a long time. But, we had a nice lunch in the Jewish Quarter, a real "Jewish meal."

Today, PJ and I went back to Auschwitz because I really thought it was important for PJ to see the Gas Chamber and crematorium. It was a very terrifying experience again, but it was more emotional for me this time. Showing someone else this horrific building was worse than seeing it for the first time. What made matters worse was that PJ and I went and had lunch and went back to the gas chamber one more time before returning to Krakow. There were three people in the gas chamber and one of them took a picture. There is a sign that clearly states that no pictures are allowed. I was very frustrated by this person. I felt it was very disrespectful, but I was able to get that out of mind and say the Mourner's Kaddish one more time before I left.

This afternoon, we went to the salt mines in Krakow. They are 130 meters below the surface. We took some amazing pictures of undergound churches, one that is the largest underground church in the world. The pictures are pretty amazing, and we'll have those up tomorrow as well. We are getting up very early tomorrow to fly back to Israel. We will be in Vienna for 2 hours in the morning, arriving in Tel Aviv around 3 pm. I am anxious to get back to Israel for the last few days of my vacation. I am very excited to begin my schoolwork on Sunday. I'll write more next week with an explanation of the first week of classes.

Laila Tov!

Auschwitz 1 and Auschwitz 2, Birkenau, Day 2

2007-08-26T10:39:00.000-04:00

Today I went to Auschwitz and Birkenau with Batya. This was a very different experience. See, PJ and I were separated from our group toward the end of the tour yesterday. What we missed, Batya and I saw today. What we missed was one of the most horrifying and emotional experiences of my life. We saw a gas chamber. I don't really know if there is a proper way to react, but my reaction was terror. I almost couldn't breathe. As I stared up at the ceilings and walls and saw finger nail scratches, I could only picture in my mind how and what these innocent people went through. I was terrified. Then, when I saw the oven where the bodies were burned to ashes, I knew I had to get out. I was almost suffocating.

After we left the gas chamber, we met an Auschwitz survivor. This man was a member of the Sundercommando. The job of the sundercommandos was the most horrific of all the jobs. They were responsible for taking the bodies out of the gas chamber, separating them, taking all of the gold jewelry and earrings off of the bodies, and then taking them to the ovens to be burned. What is miraculous is that the men who were sundercommandos only lived for 3 months at a time, as they knew the secrets of the Germans, and would be killed. This man survived, and we were amazed at his story.

The last part of our trip today, which was the only wonderful part, was seeing a bunch of Israeli high school students together at Birkenau. They were conducting a service in honor of those who had died. Seeing these Israeli Jews there really gave me tremendous hope. I was honored to be there with them. I'll write more in a few days with reactions to Krakow. So far, we're pretty impressed with the beauty of the city!

Auschwitz 1 and Auschwitz 2, Birkenau

2007-08-25T11:43:00.000-04:00

We arrived in Krakow, very glad to have a nice break from Israel. We love Israel, but it was nice to get a vacation. When we arrived at our hotel, we were amazed to see such great customer service, nothing really expected in most places in Israel, especially if your Hebrew isn't so great! We took a taxi to the city center of Krakow and walked around for about 2 hours. It really is a beautiful city and in such contrast to what we saw today. We went to bed kind of early, as we wanted to be rested to prepare ourselves for today.

PJ and I jumped into the bus to pick up other passengers for the English led tour. Once we boarded our coach, we headed to Auschwitz. I am not really sure what I expected. I don't really know if one can really expect anything. I am sure everyone who goes to a concentration camp, especially a Death camp, has their expectations proven wrong. First of all, Auschwitz is made up of two parts, Auschwitz 1 and Auschwitz 2, or Birkenau. Auschwitz 1 was originally a type of Polish army base. When Germany took over Poland, Auschwitz 1 was turned into a prisoner camp, primarily for Poles, especially those who were loyal Poles. The Germans were afraid they might cause an uproar. It's amazing how scared of everyone else the Germans were.

Eventually, because the Polish prisons were completely overcrowded, Auschwitz 1 became a prison camp for many, many people, including Jews, Gypsies, Homosexuals, etc. This "camp" became a place to bring people and eventually kill them. What I saw in this place was horrifying. The complete lack of human respect was overwhelming. People were tortured, embarassed, and killed. What did these "soldiers" think? Didn't they realize it was wrong to treat other humans in such a way? Our tour guide was very descriptive, and the pictures I wasn't allowed to take will remain in my mind forever. I walked in and OUT of Auschwitz 1.

What I saw and experienced in Auschwitz 1 in no way prepared me for Auschwitz 2, Birkenau. This was where the Jews were sent. While Auschwitz was a labor camp (or that's what the Germans called it), Birkenau was a death or extermination camp. People were brought here to die. Those who were lucky enough to be chosen to work were only allowed to live because they served the German Reich a purpose. And, they would eventually be slaughtered as well. Now I have read many books about the Holocaust (called HaShoah in Hebrew). I have seen many movies about HaShoah. But to stand in a living barrack and see where these people lived and "bathed" was awful. I wanted to scream...and I was very angry that this could happen.

But, as my friend PJ pointed out, the most important thing I experienced today was the ability to walk out. I walked out with my head held high in a tribute to those millions of Jews and others who died. I left. While I am returning tomorrow with Batya, I expect to experience something incredibly different. I can't have expectations..we shall see.

May we never forget these souls, those who died just because of who they were.

Oseh shalom bim'romav hu ya'aseh shalom
He Who makes peace in His heights, may He make peace,

aleinu v'al kol Yis'ra'eil v'im'ru
upon us and upon all Israel.

Amen

Ulpan is OVER!!!

2007-08-21T13:57:00.000-04:00

Wow, what an amazing 6 weeks. I thought I would never make it through Ulpan, but somehow I survived and passed the Ulpan! This was a very intensive Hebrew program with 5 hours of Hebrew every day and it's truly amazing how much I learned. I am now able to write an essay completely in Hebrew, and I find myself speaking more and more to people on the street (especially cab drivers) in Hebrew. It's great, and I am looking forward to continuing my Hebrew classes and learning more and more!

We are now on a 10 day break or so. The beauty of this break is that we don't have any requirements except to relax! So, how are we going to relax? We are taking a trip to Krakow, Poland on Friday. We'll be gone for 5 days, and for two of the days Batya, our friend PJ and I will be going to Auschwitz. I'll go with PJ on Saturday and Batya will go with me on Sunday. It's going to be an interesting Shabbat this week, and I hope to get a lot of perspective. It will be nice to experience this with a great friend on Saturday and my best friend, Batya, on Sunday. We'll take lots of pictures (of what we're allowed to), so you'll be able to see what we see (at least in pictures).

We go back to school, to our regular class schedule on Sunday, September 2. We'll then only have a few hours of Hebrew every day, but we'll have many more classes, preparing us for our long journeys to be Rabbis, Cantors, and Jewish educators!

Lailah Tov!

Slichot

2007-08-16T00:19:00.000-04:00

Wow! This morning, and I do mean morning, we met at 4 am. We took a bus to a Sephardic (from the word Sepharad which means Spain) synagogue on the French Hill in Jerusalem. This was a first for me. I can't remember experiencing a Sephardic synaogue. The reason why we left so early in the morning is that the Sephardic custom is to have Selichot services between midnight and dawn, when our prayers can be heard by God the best and clearest. Slichot services are all about asking God for forgiveness. These prayers are a complete admission of our guilt and request for forgiveness. Traditionally, these prayers are completed every day for 40 days before Rosh Hashanah. Of course, most Americans are of the Ashkenazic tradition, meaning Slichot are recited later in the afternoon, usually only a week before Rosh Hashanah.

Whatever your tradition, these are very solemn and serious prayers. We are truly begging God for forgiveness, realizing our sins and Mamash ("really", Israelis love this word) doing some serious introspection. This period is when we can realize our mistakes and look for ways to learn from them to not commit them again. We went to an Orthodox shul, which unfortunately meant the women and men were separated. As this was a Sephardic shul, the Bima was in the middle of the congregation, with the Chazan, Cantor, leading the service from behind the Bima, facing the Ark.

This was one of the most special moments for me in my life. The Kavanah (true focus or directedness) of the service was unbelievable. While I wasn't really awake when we first arrived, by the 2nd or 3rd verse of the opening prayer, I was wide awake. The people in this shul had tremendous spirit and kavanah. During the recitation of the confessional part of the service, the man who recited was a very pious man who you could hear sobbing as he confessed for the entire congregation and mamash for the entire congregation of Jews throughout the world. I found myself lost in his words and trying to focus immensely on my own sins and confession.

As a people, Jews are very good at realizing our mistakes and begging for forgiveness. Often times, we joke about our guilt and how good we are at making others feel guilty. But this service points you to your own guilt and causes you to do some serious introspection. This was truly an eye opening service, and I am truly grateful for the opportunity to share this service with my classmates and the congregation at the shul.

Now, I am off to go back to sleep!
L'Hitraot!

Ein Gedi Spa/Dead Sea and Hiking Israel

2007-08-11T12:09:00.000-04:00

Friday, August 10 was an outstanding day! Except for the fact that we started about an hour and a half late and also except for some small squabbling in the car by some wandering Jews, our trek to the Ein Gedi Spa was very successful. Each of us had amazing spa treatment including massages, mud baths, swimming in the Dead Sea, or swimming in the chlorine pool. Now, here's a big difference. In America, when you go swimming, the bottom of the pool is very rough and you can easily cut yourself on the bottom. In Israel, the bottom of the pool is very smooth, and padded. Therefore you are able to walk or whatever on the bottom of the pool without worrying about stubbing your toe or cutting yourself. On the flip side, however, the walls of the pool are the same color as the water, so if you happen to not be paying attention, you can run into the side of the pool. You'll have to ask my wife about that one.

When we came back to Jerusalem, we had Shabbat Dinner at our place. As usual, the woman who I live with who doesn't believe she can cook at all, cooked an amazing dinner, enjoyed by all. Unfortunately, the night ended with a classmate getting sick, but she's better now, and Batya wants to explain that our classmate did NOT get sick from her cooking.

Today, on Shabbat, several of us went on an outstanding 5 mile hike. It was a moderate level hike, with great sites to see, and plenty to enjoy. It was nice getting out there on Shabbat and just enjoying Israel away from the city. I am terribly sunburned, and am learning that I need to wear sunblock if I don't want to have problems with my skin later on in life.

Just for an update, Ulpan is still very time consuming and it's only getting harder. However, our teacher is amazing and she is really working us hard. I am looking forward to the last 2 weeks of Ulpan as we prepare for our first vacation from HUC.

Shavua Tov!

Jerusalem Day #3 and My pinky, AGAIN!

2007-08-03T06:29:00.000-04:00

Wow. For the third Jerusalem Day, we went to the Israel Museum on Tuesday night to see the Dead Sea Scrolls, and to the Southern Wall Excavations and Kotel Tunnels on Thursday. The Israel Museum was nice, but I would have liked to have spent more time in the museum. We spent some time studying some text, which was enjoyable, but there is so much to the museum, and we didn't really have enough time to examine everything. We had our second Hebrew test on Wednesday. It was tough, but I think I did ok. We'll just have to wait until Sunday to find out.

On Thursday, we had a great day. We spent some time examining the Southern Wall, even climbing the steps to where pilgrims would have entered into the Second Temple complex. It was a very awe inspiring experience. I just imagined myself 2000 years ago going to the Temple on one of the harvest festivals. After examining the Southern wall, we checked out some pretty interesting things including Robinson's Arch, another entrance to the Second Temple area that is also over 2000 years old, as well as some ancient store sites for purchasing animals for sacrifices. We even saw 2000 year old Mikvahs, or purity bath areas.

The most exciting part of the day, though, was the Kotel tunnels. We walked through tunnels that are under the Arab quarter of the Old City. It was truly amazing seeing the extension of the Western retaining wall. However, when we came upon the area which "leads to the Holy of Holies," I was very excited. It truly was an awesome place, and I would love to go there again. I am now getting ready for Shabbat, to spend some nice relaxing time with my family.

Oh, and one more thing. I went to the doctor today because the swelling hasn't gone down. The doctor told me that he thinks there might be some internal bleeding, which has caused the swelling. I have to go see an orthopedist next week to begin physical therapy. I am not allowed to play any sports for at least 4 weeks.

L'Hitraot!

First Hebrew Test

2007-07-30T15:34:00.000-04:00

Alright! We had our first Hebrew test last week, and I scored an 87. I had some trouble with a little bit of the Grammar portion of the test. But, at least I know what I need to improve on. My teacher is really great, and I enjoy our classes. We have another test coming up on Wednesday, so we'll see how I do this week.

I am beginning to realize just how busy I am going to be this year. I am having a difficult time balancing my "real life" with my "school life." With the help of my friends here, and of course Batya, I am beginning to balance things out a bit. I just have to schedule time for myself and prioritize my life a lot.

It's challenging, but it will be fun and extraordinary year!

We have another Jerusalem Day coming up on Thursday, and a trip before that on Wednesday to the Israel Museum.

Lailah Tov!

Jerusalem Day #2

2007-07-26T16:23:00.000-04:00

So, today, we were told we were going to "Hell." Really, we were going to the Valley of Hinnom. Many refer to this place as Gehenna. This is actually a wrong interpretation of the Hebrew. Ge in Hebrew means valley and Gehenna is actually Ge Hinnom, which is the Valley of Hinnom. I can tell you, and you can see the pictures when they are posted to my webshots account, that this is the closest I hope to ever get to what people call Hell. Now, granted, it was 95 degrees or hotter and in Jerusalem there are rarely clouds. So, it was pretty darn hot. And, if you don't drink water in Jerusalem, surely you would die, probably in Ge Hinnom.

Of course, the fact that Jerusalem is a city of hills and valleys, and you are always walking uphill, adds to the heat factor. But, we learned a lot about this valley. Basically, according to legend, this was the place where bad people were sent before they could descend to Olam Haba, the dwelling place in which you joined your fathers and mothers. If you were really a bad person, you would have to wait approximately 12 months. It's now a place for outdoor concerts, although I couldn't imagine going to a concert there in the dead of summer. It's hot! (as Carlie would say)

From there, we walked up to the Old City, and saw a film about 1st Temple Jerusalem. We were able to learn about the City that David built, and see the walls of the city that Hezekiah added and built. It was a pretty hokey video, but it explained a lot. We then spent about an hour on text study, looking at the Monarchy of Hezekiah and the prophecies of Isaiah. It was very interesting stuff!

As I was walking around the Old City, I had a very meaningful conversation with one of my classmates, Daniel Bar Nahum. He said something that will remain true in my heart for as long as I live, "You can't be an example to your congregants, you must be a Madrich (guide) for them." What he was explaining was that if I tried to live my life by example, I would never be happy enough with the example I was showing. It is better to live my life and guide my congregants and those I come in contact with. This way I can help them find their own way without compromising what is important to me and my family. It was a wonderful conversation, and I am thankful to Daniel!

I then walked around the Arab Shuk for a while and bought a Shesh Besh (backgammon) board. It's a really fun game, and I am looking forward to playing often. Before I forget, I think it's important to add that last night we saw ancient burial tombs from the 1st Temple period. The site we saw was one in which they found bones, jewelry, and many other things. It was pretty exciting to look in and see the caves the bones were buried in! They even found a priestly amulet with one of the priestly blessings!

As we were on our way to experience the Israel Baseball League, our bus was hit by another car. Fortunately, we weren't that delayed. What a funny incident...to be driving in Israel and actually hit a car. The baseball game was very fun. It was a little league sized crowd, but they were really into it. I bought a really cute blue glove for Carlie, and we took pictures of it, so you'll see those when I post them. The HUC students that attended were even asked to sing "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" during the 5th inning stretch. They only play 7 innings in their games. What's cool is that if the game ends in a tie, they have a homerun derby to decide the winner.

So, tomorrow off to Tel-Aviv for the day to relax and hopefully buy a clarinet! Pictures from that trip will come later!

L'Hitraot!

Tisha B'Av

2007-07-24T16:41:00.000-04:00

So, today was not much different than most other days we've been here with a few exceptions. As I had never commemorated this day before, I tried to fast as most people do. It's not like Yom Kippur in which you are in services all day, and are distracted from your hunger. This was a day of class, text study, prayer, and a few hours of free time in the afternoon. And, to make matters even more crazy, I was even fasting from water. This is not a great idea in the desert temperatures of Israel, especially on one of the hottest days of the year. I made it until about 4:30 when I was beginning to get a headache. I must admit that even though I didn't really feel much today, the struggle of making it until 4:30 was difficult, and it shed some light on some of the pain that Israelis feel on this day, and all Jews for that matter. It is a different kind of fast day than Yom Kippur, and until you have experienced it in Israel, it's hard to explain. But, I am glad I was able to accomplish what I accomplished. I learned a little bit about the meanings of Tisha B'Av, and felt a little bit of the difficulty.

This evening, I met with some friends to study for my first Hebrew exam. I think I'll do ok, but I always get a little worried before tests. The study session went well, and it was nice to get together with friends to review. We'll see how tomorrow goes. I'll write tomorrow afternoon, if I have time to talk about the test. Just to get an idea of my schedule here, take a look at my schedule for tomorrow:

7:00 wake up
8:00 - 8:30 study for Ulpan test
8:30 - 10:00 Test #1
10:05 - 10:25 Shacharit Services (morning services) led by me and a friend
10:30 - 12:00 2nd period of Ulpan
12:15 - 1:00 3rd period of Ulpan
1:00 - 1:30 Lunch
1:30 - 3:00 Reform Liturgy Workshop
3:00 - 4:00 Experience the "Time Elevator" with some friends
4:15 - 5:00 Give Carlie a bath and hang out with Batya
5:30 - 6:45 Tzedakah meeting at HUC
7:00 - 9:00 Text Study for Jerusalem day #2
9:15 collapse from the day!

Until tomorrow, B'Shalom!

Erev Tisha B'Av in Jerusalem

2007-07-23T16:22:00.000-04:00

Wow. I knew a little bit about this night, but not nearly enough to prepare myself for the emotions I would encounter during our service this evening. Tisha B'Av commemorates the 9th of Av in the Hebrew Calendar. Traditionally, this is the date in which the 1st and 2nd temples were destroyed as well as other horrible events like the slaughtering of Bar Kochba and his students. This is a very solemn night, but it brought some happiness and satisfaction as well. For after all, we are here, and we are continuing to be here. While no Israeli or Jewish person for that matter agrees on all political and cultural decisions, we can all celebrate our existence in the land promised to us, Eretz Yisrael.

A commitee was formed to write and lead a service for our HUC community, overlooking the walls of the Old City. It was truly an amazing sight to see hundreds and thousands of Jewish people flooding into the Old City, to get a glimpse or touch of what remains of the outer wall of the area surrounding the Temple. The beginning of the service felt just like the first time I touched the stones of the Kotel, the Western Wall. I felt nothing. But, as the service moved on, I began to feel sadness, lamenting all of the horror that has befallen our ancestors.

And, then, at once, I experienced some sort of satisfaction. I was here, sitting on the ground in Jerusalem watching the walls of the Old City. I wasn't scared or even remotely worried. I was able to sit there and pray how I wanted. This is truly an amazing feeling, that I am beginning to feel more and more everyday. We are here, in Eretz Yisrael, in Yerushalayim, praying. I thank God everyday for this opportunity.

I am looking forward to a meaningful fast and day of thought and spiritual escape from my everyday reality. We only have one period of Hebrew tomorrow, followed by Text study and an afternoon service, Mincha. I'll write tomorrow with impressions of my first ever Tisha B'Av in Jerusalem.

Baruch Hashem!

Jerusalem Day #1

2007-07-19T10:30:00.000-04:00

Wow, what a day! We dropped Carlie off at the home of one of our dear friends whose mother is here this year. We arrived at their house at around 7:05 am. We then were dropped off at HUC for a day long tiyul (trip). First, we went to the Tayelet--the Jerusalem promenade. We had Shacharit, morning services, overlooking Jerusalem's Old City. It was gorgeous, and very spiritual. After services, we sat down with our teacher, Moshe, and looked at texts revolving around David Melech. We were looking for areas of the text we might have questions about, and we found lots of questions, with lots of answers!

Then, we were off for a very nice hike around the Tayelet. The pictures we took of Jerusalem are priceless, and when you get a chance to see them, you'll marvel at the beauty of the pictures. We then took a short bus ride into East Jerusalem, the Arab section of Jerusalem. It was a complete balagan (mess) as our busses barely made it through the small streets. I am truly amazed how the bus driver was able to manuever the bus around all of the other cars.

Once we were out of the mess of cars, we went to Ir David--the city of David. We saw an interesting video about the history of the city. Then we walked around and a saw of couple of archaelogical sites. We saw excavations of what could be David's Palace, and a 2000 year old toilet! Then we waded through Hezekiah's Tunnel, a 3,000 year old natural spring water system that was used and developed by Hezekiah, a former king of Jerusalem.

Then we walked around the Old City of Jerusalem a bit, stopping at a few places along the way, such as the supposed Tomb of David. We even saw a Christian group who was experiencing the path of Jesus when he carried his Cross. What was interesting about this Cross was that it was on wheels! Tonight, Batya and I are going to have dinner with some friends and have a few drinks at a bar, a great way to relax after a long day of hiking and learning!

Until next time, B'Shalom!

What a Day!

2007-07-17T14:53:00.000-04:00

So, the day began with another Hebrew exam. It seems there was not much of a difference between the Alef and Bet Hebrew classes, so they wanted to retest us and restructure the classes if needed. I am still in Alef, and perfectly happy with that. The teacher is VERY nice and does a great job explaining things. I think I will learn a lot from her. The only problem is that several of my friends were unhappy with the way things turned out. This was pulling on my heart strings all day. It took the words of one of my classmates/friends who made me realize that we should all be happy to be here. I hope these words ring true for those of my friends who are unhappy.

For dinner, we celebrated another friend's birthday at a restaurant called Spaghettim. Unfortunately, it wasn't kosher, but I made do. Carlie really enjoyed it and many of my friends are really enjoying spending time with Carlie, so it makes life A LOT easier. After dinner, I walked with two of my friends to my friend's store, Ora Jerusalem. I actually met this store owner 7 years ago when I was here in 2000. When I went to his store for the first time 3 weeks ago in 7 years, he remembered me by name, on the spot.

So, I've been taking a lot of my friends there, and I think I'll take my friends there tomorrow as well. He has everything you could want to buy, and some things you haven't thought of! He invited me to join him for Maariv (evening services) at his Shul which was just around the corner from his shop. It was a Sephardic (from Sepharad meaning Spanish) Shul. I was actually able to follow along, and it was nice to clear my head and just pray. It really helped to put things in perspective, and it was the closest I have felt to God since I have been here.

After services, I went to play poker with some of my classmates. It was a good end to the day. I am ready to turn in to bed, and enjoy a nice night of sleep, to awaken to a day of promise and hope!

Baruch HaShem!

First Day as an HUC Student

2007-07-15T14:03:00.000-04:00

Wow! What a first day. I have to admit that I was a little nervous about the first day of the Hebrew Ulpan. Our teacher, Chana, is very nice and funny. She speaks very fast and mostly in Hebrew, so it takes an incredible amount of concentration to follow her. We worked on Grammar today (Dikduk). We conjugated words from present to past and future tense. This was actually pretty easy for me because I think logically. Since most of the grammar follows a bit of a construct, it's pretty easy. It's the vocabulary which causes me trouble. It will just take some time having to hear words over and over again to learn them. I think it will be ok in the end...it's just going to take some major studying on my part.

We had dinner with Rabbi Julie Schwartz, our Rabbi in Atlanta, tonight at a great steak restaurant called Norman's. It's a favorite spot for Americans, because the burgers are huge and the steaks are GREAT! It was nice catching up with Julie. She is a tremendous Rabbi and person. She's vacationing for the first time since her kids were born, and she looked so relaxed and happy!

After dinner, we spent some time with friends celebrating the birthday of one our new friends, Stephanie Clark. We had already eaten, so it was just about the company. It was fun, and it's nice to get out and spend some time with our friends, especially after a long day of school. 8:30 am - 1:00 pm is long...but it went by pretty fast. Tomorrow, we are off to buy school supplies and refill our kitchen at the Shuk, which is an experience all by itself! If you come to visit, you have to experience the Shuk!

Schmooze Fest with HUC Alumni

2007-07-14T14:38:00.000-04:00

Tonight was fun. The HUC Class of 2012 celebrated Havdalah, the separation of Shabbat from the new week to come, with many alumni of HUC. It was an ice cream Havdalah. We had lots of fun, and Carlie had a great time pouring the ice cream all over herself! Having ice cream and celebrating Havdalah while overlooking the walls of Old Jerusalem was a tremendous experience, one I am sure will remain with me as a memory for a long time.

I'll write more tomorrow after the first day of the Hebrew Ulpan. Word is that I will be exhausted, but I'll make time to write more.

Shavuah Tov!

Why Rabbinical School?

2007-07-14T09:06:00.000-04:00

I have been asked by several people why I am going to Rabbinical School. It's a long answer, so I'll try to make it as short as possible. Basically, it goes all the way back to 1985, when I was 8 years old. I was hit by a car while waiting for the bus. There were about 20 kids at my busstop, and seven of the Moms were nurses. In the history of the stop until that point, none of the parents had stayed at the busstop. But, on that day, all of those nurses stayed at the busstop, and kept me alive until the ambulance arrived. Weeks later, the doctors told my parents I shouldn't have survived as the injuries were so severe. Those moms kept me alive. With over 180 stitches in my head and a broken left femur, I was in intensive care for 2 weeks. I also lost 4 pints of blood, and was in a coma for 4 days. So, let's fast forward a few years when I was 15, and was introduced to the director of admissions at Hebrew Union College as my Rabbi's successor. I think that was then when I really began to seriously think about becoming a Rabbi.

But, I had to think about why, why a Rabbi. I began to think about my life, and all of the things that had happened. It came to me one day. I was reading the story of Jacob when we fled his brother Esau, afraid for his life. He stopped for the night, and slept, laying his head on a rock. When he awoke the next morning, he realized that God had been in that place, and it was a holy place. He promised his life to God if he stayed with him and protected him. So, that's it. God kept me alive that day for a reason. I have thought long and hard about that reason. I faithfully believe that my life journey to first become a Rabbinical student, and now to start the process of becoming a Rabbi is my calling. I pledge myself to the Jewish people, to continue to learn and study all that I can to give back to the Jewish people and all people for as long as I am alive.

Science shows that people who are in a coma for up to 4 hours can lose great amounts of their memory. I was in a coma for 4 days. While I did lose almost all of my episodic memory (situations in my life), I retained all of my semantic memory (knowledge). This is something else I have to be thankful for.

I will end in two ways. First, although my relationship with my mother wasn't always perfect, I am sure she is in heaven looking down on me and proud of my accomplishments in life--my beautiful wife, daughter, and my journey to become a Rabbi. It might have taken my mom dieing to kick me into gear to finally start this journey. Who knows? But, I think of her often and every day. I hope I can continue to make her proud.

Second, I was asked to write a personal version of Tefillat Ha'Derek---the traveler's prayer. As my family begins this journey, it's only appropriate to begin tomorrow with this:

Adonai, Guide my steps, my thoughts and my actions. Help me to create within my home and Kehillah a community without strangers. Help me to live Betzelem Elohim. Help my family and community to always live in peace, caring for one another. Protect us along the way, healing us in time of need and helping us to enjoy our time here with our community.

Until next time....

Friday the 13!

2007-07-13T06:53:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone! Well, Batya and I needed some time alone to just check in with each other. Since we have such great friends here who adore Carlie, it was easy to get a babysitter. I took Batya to a restaurant called La Boca. It's a Latin restaurant---yes, believe it or not, Batya has turned me into a person who likes Latin food. Anyway, it was a bit pricy, but certainly worth it. We had an appetizer, bottle of wine, main course and dessert. I recommend this restaurant to everyone---I guess you need to be in Israel first, quite a bit of a commute if you're not. By the way, it's on Emek Rafaim, past Mcdonald's.

So, we came home expecting to sleep well for the first time in a while as our friend, Julia, moved out to her own apartment. Yes, we've become sort of a hostel for our friends in need. Carlie, however, had a different idea. She didn't really expect to be sleeping in her own crib---as she's been sleeping in our bed for about 2 weeks. So, at about 11:15 pm, the monster awoke and by monster, I mean the version of Carlie that NO ONE else gets to see. She screamed off and on (2 minutes of silence for every 10 minutes of screaming) for about an hour. I was really afraid our neighbors were going to come and politely bang on our door. We gave Carlie some food, played with her for a little while, and by about 12:45, she was ready to finally go back to sleep. She actually walked herself to her bed and put her hands on the bars of the crib as if to say, "What are you waiting for?"

This morning, we met with the students who are going back to our campuses with us. We met also with a 5th year student, who was able to answer questions about the Cinci campus. This was a nice chance to see who we'd be studying for the four years after we return. So, we are really looking forward to this evening. We will get to share Kabbalat Shabbat with a bunch of HUC alumni. Our Rabbi from Atlanta, Rabbi Julie Schwartz, will be in attendance, so we are looking forward to seeing her.

I'll write more tomorrow night after the HUC schmooze fest!

Orientation and 10 fingers again

2007-07-12T00:42:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was the first official day for me as a student at Hebrew Union College. We started orientation. It was really great gathering as one whole community with all of the students and many of the professors. Michael Marmur, our Dean here in Jerusalem, is a very funny man and I am looking forward to many conversations with him over the year. David Ellison, the president of HUC, was also there to welcome us and had some very nice things to say. He also was quite funny. The director of our program, Rabbin Naamah Kelman, was the first woman ordained in Israel. She seems very nice, and really on top of things. So, we did a lot of sitting and learning about who and what would be going on for the year. And, we ended with some time with smaller groups and our interns. It was a nice way to end the day and get us all thinking about the year to come.

So, I took off the bandage this morning. While it's nice to have all of my fingers again, my pinky is still quite sore, and it's going to take some more healing time before I am ready to play sports again. Of course, I am not afraid of dislocating my finger again, because it wasn't so enjoyable the first time. But, I'll be alright...just can't keep thinking about it. We are having a nice Shabbat this weekend with some Alumni of HUC, and I believe my Rabbi from Atlanta, Rabbi Julie Schwartz, will be here, so it will be nice to see her.

More to come later...

Oops, I only need 9 fingers!

2007-07-07T12:45:00.000-04:00

Shabbat afternoon was really fun! A bunch of my classmates and I decided to play football on a concrete field. It was very hot, but as we were playing 2 hand touch, we thought for sure noone would get hurt. After about 2 hours of playing, a bunch of kids from Young Judea's Machon program came over to play with us. The HUC gang was winning, so we were pretty pumped. Then it happened. I was going out for a pass that would have been a touchdown. The quarterback threw a perfect pass, but instead of catching it the right way, I tried to catch it with my pinky. Two seconds later, I looked at a disgusting dislocated finger. After about an hour at Magen David Adom (the 24 hour clinic open on Shabbat), and after the most excruciating pain I have ever experienced, I walked out with my finger wrapped. Unfortunately, I am done with football and softball for 5 days...so, my blog won't be as great as it would have been for the next few days. Bear with me...I'll do as much as I can!

Friday in Tel Aviv and Adam's Birthday

2007-07-07T00:53:00.000-04:00

Going to a bar with a bunch of your friends in Israel can be a lot of fun. However, if you have plans to go to the airport at 5 am, it's not too incredibly smart to go to bed at 1 am. But, Dublin bar in Jerusalem is a great place to go and just kick back and let off some steam. It's a little loud, but the drinks were fantastic. I went to pick up one of my classmates, Julia, at Ben Gurion airport. Although I was exhausted, it was nice to meet Julia and to make her transition to a new country easier. So, after we arrived back in Jerusalem, we rested for a few minutes and went to Kikar Zion (Zion Square) to meet up with some more classmates and Daniel, one of our interns. We were then on our way back to Tel Aviv to spend a day enjoying the Shuk and artists shuk. It was crazy busy, but a lot of fun. There was a tremendous amount of artwork, and I really believe many of my friends would have enjoyed the opportunity to peruse some of the art. We then spent some time enjoying the hot sun and beach in Tel Aviv. It was beautiful! Friday night, we went to Shabbat Dinner at Vicky and Vlad's house. Vicky is a Cantoral student and her son Adam was turning 3. What a great dinner! And the cake was delicious. Most importantly, though, the company was a lot of fun, and it's nice to spend time just relaxing and discussing life with classmates and friends! I'll write some more after Shabbat in the park!