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Rabbi’s Corner
Big Ideas go Bankrupt
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | FRI, MAY 20, 2022“I don’t care if you’re a billion dollar company, in one moment you can go bankrupt,” declared the business tycoon. “That’s ridiculous. A poor strategy can be adjusted. A poor…
read moreOne Step at a Time
Rabbi Haim Shaul | THU, MAY 12, 2022In this weeks Torah portion we are given the Mitzva of counting the Omer for the 49 days leading up to Shavuot. When we think of the wondrous miracles…
read moreWater the Seeds
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | THU, MAY 05, 2022“This tree is going to bear luscious and mouth-watering apples. The other is going to bear rotten and dried out apples”. “But, dad, they both look alike. I don’t even…
read moreParashat Aharei Mot
Rabbi Haim Shaul | THU, APR 28, 2022A student once saw the great sage Hillel leaving his academy. He approached the sage and asked him where he was going. “I am going to do a Mitzva for…
read morePesah
Rabbi Haim Shaul | TUE, APR 12, 2022Passover marks the beginning formation of the Jewish nation and our relationship with the Creator. The Haggadah that we all will be reading on the night of Passover revolves around…
read morePutting skin in the game
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | THU, APR 07, 2022You were not the most fit. You were not so skilled. Classmates even viewed you as an under performer. How did you pass all those extreme physical tests in order…
read moreParashat Tazria
Rabbi Haim Shaul | THU, MAR 31, 2022The affliction of Tzaraat, commonly translated as leprosy, described in the Parashah this week, is not a bodily disease, but the physical manifestation of a spiritual malaise, the result of…
read moreAristotle the Human
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | THU, MAR 24, 2022“You, of all people! How can you do such a thing?!” Aristotle’s students exclaimed in surprise. They were appalled. Their beloved and knowledgeable teacher was caught in the act. “Dear…
read moreParashat Tsav
Rabbi Haim Shaul | WED, MAR 16, 2022King David said, “May goodness and kindness pursue me all the days of my life.” What a strange expression! Goodness and kindness should pursue me, as though I was fleeing…
read moreNuclear bomb?
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | THU, MAR 10, 2022“What’s more powerful than a nuclear bomb? “Cyber warfare” “Perhaps. But, students, what would be far more powerful then both cyber and nuclear warfare?” “Planting a bug or virus into…
read moreParashat Pekudei
Rabbi Haim Shaul | THU, MAR 03, 2022All the many donations to the Mishkan were only accepted if they had been attained honestly. Any gifts that might have been tainted by being acquired dishonestly were rejected. …
read moreOne Mitzvah at a Time!
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | THU, FEB 24, 2022“I love mother Russia. If I would own a chest of gold and silver I would give it away to Mother Russia.” “WOW! Amazing! But, what about the horse sitting in…
read moreParashat Ki Tissa
Rabbi Haim Shaul | THU, FEB 17, 2022Following the tragic episode of the golden calf Moses took his tent and set it up outside the camp. He reasoned that since G-d was angry with the people, then…
read moreAngel or Human
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | FRI, FEB 11, 2022“My dear parents, if you were to name the most memorable moment of my youth, what would it be?” “The moment you said, ‘Dad’ and ‘Mom’ was the beginning…
read moreParashat Terumah
Rabbi Haim Shaul | THU, FEB 03, 2022We read this week of the commandment to build the sanctuary, which accompanied the nation throughout their travels. Surprisingly, to many of our sages, the need for a physical sanctuary…
read moreOrdinary or Beautiful
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | WED, JAN 26, 2022“Mom, you only got solid colors. They’re boring. I need to create a beautiful painting. How in the world can I do it with a boring white or blue? “My…
read moreParashat Yitro
Rabbi Haim Shaul | WED, JAN 19, 2022Surprisingly, the most monumental event in Jewish history, the receiving of G-d’s law, is named after Yitro, a gentile. There are many important ideas taught in this small detail. The…
read moreLawmakers Vs. Lawbreakers
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | WED, JAN 12, 2022“Doctor, you’re a world renowned expert in oncology, how is it that you are smoking?” “You’re right that smoking is unhealthy, but it’s all relative. Genetically, I have very strong…
read more“Who is the wise person the one who sees the future.”
Rabbi Haim Shaul | THU, JAN 06, 2022There is a saying in the Talmud that a person who eats fatty meat may need to hide in the attic, but one who eats vegetables may do so in…
read moreParashat Va’era – Are Winners Happy?
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | THU, DEC 30, 2021Your score came in at 93, you won second place!” “WOW! I can’t believe it!!..YAY…” “Your score is 96, you won first place!!” “Are you sure it was only 96?!…
read moreSurviving as a Nation
Rabbi Haim Shaul | WED, DEC 22, 2021These are the names of the children of Israel who came to Egypt with Jacob, each man and his household.” Our tradition tells us that the survival of the Jewish…
read moreConnecting – Parshat Vayechi
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | THU, DEC 16, 2021“We both clocked in on time every day, why was Josh the winner for the employee of the month award?” “The award had nothing to do with clocking in on…
read moreParashat Vayigash
Rabbi Haim Shaul | MON, DEC 06, 2021From the moment Joseph’s brothers set foot in Egypt, they were bewildered by the inexplicable events that were occurring to them. Why is this viceroy accusing us of being spies?…
read moreParashat Miketz – Free If Interested
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | WED, DEC 01, 2021The sign on the store read “Everything must go: FREE for those interested” Jacob was overjoyed, as he stepped up to the checkout; he was shocked to see a bill.…
read moreParashat Vayeshev
Rabbi Haim Shaul | THU, NOV 25, 2021Jacob, after successfully escaping Lavan’s house and his epic confrontation with his brother Esav, finally returns to his ancestral home, the land of his youth, with his large family and…
read moreSweating is Healthy
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | THU, NOV 18, 2021“Mom I’m thirsty,” baby duck complained. “My dear, I’ve pushed you to the tip of the pond, all you have to do is open your mouth! That part you’ll need…
read moreParashat Va’yeseh
Rabbi Haim Shaul | TUE, NOV 09, 2021Jacob, alone and afraid, after escaping with his life from his brother Esav is visited in his sleep by the vision of G-d. Immediately upon waking, he took the stone…
read moreConnections or Connecting
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | WED, NOV 03, 2021“We were both in the same class and received the same grades, what makes you a better doctor?” “Yes, we both learned the same material, but it seems you forgot…
read moreParashat Vayeria – Happily Stuck in Traffic
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | MON, OCT 18, 2021“You’ve got a huge debt, a tough boss, and you’re stuck in traffic, why in the world are you smiling?” “If I would have a surplus in the bank, be…
read morePARASHAT NOAH – PURPOSE
Rabbi Haim Shaul | TUE, OCT 05, 2021Finding purpose in life is like putting on glasses, it changes one’s vision on life as a whole. Everything is now seen with different lenses, with a deeper perspective. Purpose…
read moreParashat Beresheet
Rabbi Haim Shaul | THU, SEP 30, 2021“In the beginning, G-d created the heavens and the earth, and the earth was barren and desolate.” The next 6 days were spent making order out of chaos. A basic…
read moreParashat Ha’azinu
Rabbi Haim Shaul | SUN, SEP 12, 2021Moses, on the final day of his life, chided and implored the nation to fulfill their divine destiny by reflecting on their past experiences and foretelling future calamities if they…
read moreShabbat Shuva – Nurture Our Roots
Rabbi Haim Shaul | THU, SEP 09, 2021Imagine two dignified-looking men sitting across from you. They’re wearing tailored power suits and polished shoes. Instinctively, you feel a sense of respect for them. Suddenly, someone places a name…
read moreParashat Nitsavim
Rabbi Haim Shaul | MON, AUG 30, 2021“You are standing today, all of you, before G-d” The opening verse of this week’s Parashah alludes to Rosh Hashanah when the entire world stands before G-d to be evaluated…
read moreParashat Ki Tavo – Deepest Gift
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | WED, AUG 25, 2021“Sorry, we refuse your offer”, the men replied. Surprised, the owner of the farm wondered: “Here I am, offering you double pay while relieving you of the toil and sweat that…
read moreParashat Ki Teseh
Rabbi Haim Shaul | MON, AUG 16, 2021One of the most rewarding yet challenging areas of life is in the arena of human relationships. Relationships add meaning, texture, vitality, and spirituality to our lives and yet are…
read moreParashat Shoftim – Thank You
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | WED, AUG 11, 2021In times gone by, when men would hunt for bears in the wild, they would first send a dog out as “bait”. The dog’s presence would set off a chase…
read moreParashat Re’eh – No Good Deed Goes Unrewarded
Rabbi Haim Shaul | MON, AUG 02, 2021One of the pillars of our Torah and ingrained character of our nation is the giving of charity. As Maimonides observed in the 12th century, every Jewish community that he…
read moreParashat Eikev – Are We Outdated?
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | TUE, JUL 27, 2021The large clock was the talk of the town. Flawlessly accurate, it kept everyone on schedule. The townspeople had only one problem, the clock was simply too high up. Why…
read moreParashat Va’et’hanan – Lessons Around Us
Rabbi Haim Shaul | MON, JUL 19, 2021This week we will be reading about the giving of the 10 Commandments, the foundation for moral conduct. The Talmud states, however, that had the Torah not been given, we…
read moreParashat Debarim – But, I want
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | WED, JUL 14, 2021A man is drowning in the ocean and prays to God for help. Moments later, a boat comes by and offers to help him, however, the man refuses. “I’m waiting for…
read moreParashat Matot-Masei
Rabbi Haim Shaul | TUE, JUL 06, 2021Our Parashah this week details the laws concerning unintentional manslaughter caused through negligence. “If a person accidentally kills another, he must be exiled and remain in the city of refuge…
read moreParashat Pinhas – Seeing Through The Clutter
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | TUE, JUN 29, 2021There’s a parable told of a donkey that tripped and fell into a deep pit. The villagers, assuming the donkey would die, threw dirt into the pit to bury the…
read moreParashat Balak – Prioritizing Your Investments
Rabbi Haim Shaul | MON, JUN 21, 2021Bilaam is seen in our Parasha, in his interactions with the emissaries of King Balak, as an arrogant man with an insatiable need for honor and riches. Our sages convey…
read moreParashat Hukat – Shift Your Attention to Others
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | MON, JUN 14, 2021“I will adopt two orphans!” Rebi Eliezer announced. “How did you get the courage to take such a huge step?” “I looked at my two boys and realized how little…
read moreParashat Korach – Beware of Hidden Agendas
Rabbi Haim Shaul | MON, JUN 07, 2021The rebellion that Korah staged, cobbling together a diverse group whose only common cause was to overthrow Moshe and Aharon, happened at the lowest point of the exodus. The nation,…
read moreParashat Shelah – We Need a Fork
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | WED, JUN 02, 2021A man orders dinner in a restaurant, and soon after his food arrives, he calls the waiter over: “I’d like to speak with the chef,” he says. “May I ask what’s wrong?”…
read moreParashat Beha’alotecha – No Reasoning with the Unreasonable
Rabbi Haim Shaul | MON, MAY 24, 2021“The rabble-rousers amongst the nation worked themselves into a frenzy and cried ‘who will give us meat to eat!’” One of the very few times Moshe totally lost it and…
read moreParashat Nasso – Hatred is Real
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | THU, MAY 20, 2021“This example will help you in your addition quiz,” the math teacher tells his students: “one apple plus another apple, equals two apples.” The students nod in understanding. Satisfied, the…
read moreParashat Bamidbar – Shavuot Manual for Life
Rabbi Haim Shaul | MON, MAY 10, 2021Every library catalogs its books according to the subject matter, history, philosophy, law, self-help, and so on. In which section would you think the Torah should be placed? That’s not…
read moreParashat Behar & Bechukotai – How to Respond to a Tragedy?
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | WED, MAY 05, 2021We are all deeply shaken by the horrific tragedy in Meron. People everywhere are crying, beseeching G-d for some measure of comfort and consolation. But how do we respond to…
read moreParashat Emor – Yom Yerushalayim
Rabbi Haim Shaul | MON, APR 26, 2021The Jewish calendar celebrates and commemorates events that span over 3,300 years. At the end of this month, Iyar, we will be celebrating the newest addition to our event calendar,…
read moreParashat Acharie Mot and Kedoshim – A College Drop Out
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | WED, APR 21, 2021“He doesn’t have a Ph.D.; he’s a college drop-out. Why would you pick him for the job?” “Because he’s got a ton of experience! His name is Steve Jobs.” Teaching…
read moreParashat Tazria-Taharot – We don’t see things the way they are, we see them the way WE are.
Rabbi Haim Shaul | TUE, APR 13, 2021This week, the Torah describes the types of defilement that a person can be afflicted by that emanate from the person himself. They are described as skin lesions that affect…
read moreParashat Shemini – What Will They Say?
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | TUE, APR 06, 2021The dog came to the heavenly court with a complaint: “I am completely degraded down on earth!” he cried. “The lion, which tears other animals apart, is honored as the…
read moreParshat Tzav – Our Lives: Past and Future
Rabbi Haim Shaul | MON, MAR 22, 2021Our celebration of Passover is not just how to remember the past monumental event of the birth of our nation, but also to embrace the newness and opportunity for our…
read moreShabbat Va’yikrah – Impossible. It Happened!
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | THU, MAR 18, 2021“Have you heard about the train?!” was the question of the day. “They say it moves thousands of miles faster than any horse and buggy!” Eager to check it out…
read moreParashat Vayak’hel-Pekudei – Living with Passion
Rabbi Haim Shaul | MON, MAR 08, 2021“My only talent was being passionately curious.” -Albert Einstein At the end of the book of Shemot, the Torah describes the generosity of the entire nation in their donations towards the…
read moreParashat Ki Tissa – Parah – Let’s Make This Journey Count!
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | TUE, MAR 02, 2021“You came all the way from Brooklyn to Manhattan for a button?!” the businessman asked his former teacher and rabbi. “No, all the way from Poland to Manhattan for a…
read moreParashat Tetzaveh – When the month of Adar begins, we increase happiness
Rabbi Haim Shaul | MON, FEB 22, 2021This description of Adar being the ‘happy’ month is referenced in Megillat Esther when we witnessed the obliteration of our sworn enemies and the Jewish nation experienced ‘light and happiness’…
read moreParashat Teruma-Zachor – Take Sam’s Call
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | TUE, FEB 16, 2021Josh is looking to open a new law office. He calls Sam, the chairman of the biggest firm in town, and asks him for a tip. “To everyone who calls,…
read moreParashat Mishpatim – “No one has ever become poor by giving” Anne Frank
Rabbi Haim Shaul | MON, FEB 08, 2021Immediately after the ecstatic, spiritual experience of last week’s Parasha, the Torah immediately brings us down to the ‘real world’ describing in minute detail the social laws that form the…
read moreParashat Yitro – Gratitude Essential Jewish Concept
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | WED, FEB 03, 2021A young boy was playing on the beach when he was suddenly swept away in a violent tidal wave. “Dear G-d, please save my child!” cried his frightened mother. Lo…
read moreParashat Beshalah – The Power of Experiential Learning
Rabbi Haim Shaul | MON, JAN 25, 2021Joseph, before he died, made the family pledge to bring his body back to their ancestral home when they would eventually return to the land of Israel. In the beginning…
read moreParashat Bo – Hypocrisy
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | WED, JAN 20, 2021“Josh, why don’t you give the gourmet sandwich you bought to that hungry man?” “Dad, you taught us to be genuine. I’ve been looking forward to this sandwich. It would…
read moreParashat Va’erah – “We act with kindness because we know what it feels like to be in need of kindness.” Rabbi Sacks
Rabbi Haim Shaul | MON, JAN 11, 2021Being in servitude in Egypt is a very large part of continuing Jewish identity. We are told over and over again to remember that we were once slaves in Egypt…
read moreParashat Shemot – Family or Friend
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | THU, JAN 07, 2021“This student is taking away precious time; you’ve got an important person waiting in the lobby,” the secretary emailed the Rabbi. “When I’m speaking with someone, nothing else exists. Right…
read moreParashat Va’yehi: Humanity’s Oldest Blessing
Rabbi Haim Shaul | TUE, DEC 29, 2020The blessings bestowed by Yaakov on Joseph’s sons, Ephraim and Menashe, are the most enduring blessings within all humanity. 3,400 years after they were given, we still reference them in…
read moreParashat Vayigash – Show Me The Way
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | WED, DEC 23, 2020“Mom, what is the purpose of a driver instructor, I’m smart enough to read up the information and drive on my own!” “Sure. You have access to tons of information.…
read moreParashat Miketz – Being part of the solution, not part of the problem
Rabbi Haim Shaul | TUE, DEC 15, 2020One of the most common questions asked about Yosef’s interpretation of Paroah’s dreams is why Yosef inserted at the end of his explanation unsolicited advice to appoint a food czar…
read moreParashat Vayeshev – Refuse the Offer
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | WED, DEC 09, 2020“Sorry we refuse your offer,” the men replied. Surprised, the owner of the farm asked “here I am offering you double pay, plus I am relieving you of the toil and sweat…
read moreParashat Vayishlah: Escaping the Prison of Materialism
Rabbi Haim Shaul | TUE, DEC 01, 2020A basic challenge that faces all humanity is how we relate as individuals to the material, physical world we live in. In a few simple words, the Torah lays out…
read moreParashat Vayetze – A Genuine “I’m sorry”
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | TUE, NOV 24, 2020“The ice looks thick from the outside, but beneath the surface, it’s already melting. Trust me, I’m a seasoned traveler, don’t try crossing those rivers now!” “Ah, you’re just an…
read moreParashat Toledot – Living in Denial
Rabbi Haim Shaul | MON, NOV 16, 2020When we read the story of the sale of Esav’s birthright we see a sequence of events that seem at first glance to be completely out of order. First, we…
read moreParashat Haye Sara – Those Critical Final 10 Seconds
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | MON, NOV 09, 2020Last week I was in the park with my children when I noticed a professional coach training a group of high school students. Interested, I asked the coach how long it took…
read moreParashat Va’yerah – Living WITH the past, not IN the past.
Rabbi Haim Shaul | MON, NOV 02, 2020Very often, we find powerful gems of wisdom hidden in the seemingly mundane conversations in the Torah. When Lot is bidden to flee the city of Sodom, before the impending…
read moreParashat Lech Lecha – The Creator Needs Us
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | WED, OCT 28, 2020“Dad, why can’t you tell me the answer? I will score 100 and win the prize!” “Son, I’m gifting you the greatest prize. The feeling of owning something. When you…
read moreParashat Noah – A Conflicted Personality
Rabbi Haim Shaul | MON, OCT 19, 2020“Noah entered the ark, because of the waters of the flood.” We see that he only reluctantly boarded the ark because he was forced to do so due to the…
read moreParashat Bereshit – Let’s Keep the Joy Going
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | THU, OCT 15, 2020“Rabbi, I’ve been through so much, please teach me how to be happy?” “Go to Rabbi Zusha.” Upon entering the torn-apart shack, he was greeted by a joyous Rabbi Zusha,…
read moreShabbat Hol HaMoed Sukkot – Let’s Keep the Inspiration
Rabbi Mendy Weitman | WED, SEP 30, 2020A priest pops into one of his new converts on a Friday night, and to his great displeasure, sees the table laid out for Shabbat dinner, replete with chicken soup…
read moreParashat Ha’azinu – Even Greatness Requires Humility
Rabbi Haim Shaul | MON, SEP 21, 2020In the opening lines of the song of Ha’azinu, Moshe declares,” The Mighty rock, His deeds are perfect, for all His ways are just.” When we see things in the…
read more
Rosh HaShanah – Getting High on the High Holidays
Arianna Schudrich | WED, SEP 16, 2020A group of Russian peasants are sitting in a bar, discussing how much they admire the Czar and what they would offer him to express the extent of their love.…
read moreParashat Nisabim-Vayelech “In all my days I have never had to look behind me before saying anything“ (Rabbi Yose, quoted in the Talmud)
Arianna Schudrich | TUE, SEP 08, 2020Slander or gossip is not necessarily untruthful. Our tradition forbids saying something derogatory about a person even if it is entirely true! One of the best and easiest guidelines to…
read moreParashat Ki Tavo – Leaders Bend Down
Arianna Schudrich | TUE, SEP 01, 2020Leadership is a service, not a position. The mystical books teaches that it is in the absence of oneself – not the indulgence of oneself – that the greatest satisfaction is found. How does…
read moreParashat Ki Tesseh – Tough Love and Parenting
Arianna Schudrich | MON, AUG 24, 2020The Torah describes in great detail the case of the rebellious son. A young teenager starting out in life indulges in defiant antisocial criminal behavior while exhibiting extreme vulgarity and…
read moreShabbat Shoftim – Children Ought to Know
Arianna Schudrich | TUE, AUG 18, 2020A father and son were heading home one Friday afternoon after purchasing 3 loaves of challah for Shabbat. On their way, a poor man stops them asking for a challah,…
read moreParashat Re’eh – “I”: A Blessing or a Stumbling block?
Arianna Schudrich | SUN, AUG 09, 2020There is an important difference between self-esteem, which is a highly desirable trait, and vanity, which is considered a loathsome attribute. Moshe, in his final days, beseeches the nation, “See…
read moreParshat Ekev – ONE word
Arianna Schudrich | WED, AUG 05, 2020Shock swept through the crowd as they read the huge dedication sign on top of the community center: “In honor of Sarah and Howard Goldberg who were killed during the…
read moreShabbat Vaet’hanan – “Rabbi Elazar Ha-kappar said, ” Envy, lust, and the desire for honor drive a person out of the world.”
Arianna Schudrich | MON, JUL 27, 2020In describing the self-destruction forces of envy and jealousy, our sages in the midrash relate a long dialogue between Moshe, of whom G-d had said that he was exceedingly humble,…
read moreParashat Devarim – Does the Truth Hurt
Arianna Schudrich | WED, JUL 22, 2020At a conference of educators, a renowned teacher was singled out for advice: “Why do your students love hearing criticism from you?” attendees asked, “It’s our greatest challenge. What’s your…
read moreParashat Matot-Masei – “Through my own body I see the mind of G-d” (Iyon 19:26)
Arianna Schudrich | MON, JUL 13, 2020“You were designed for accomplishment, engineered for success, and endowed with the seeds of greatness.” A leading biologist who dedicated her entire life to studying the growth and development of…
read moreParashat Pinhas – My Neighbor
Arianna Schudrich | THU, JUL 09, 2020The owner of a modest grocery store foresees a serious blow to his business when two sizable supermarkets suddenly open shop next door to him. Determined to succeed, he quickly…
read moreParashat Hukat-Balak – Leaders- Held To a Higher Standard
Arianna Schudrich | MON, JUN 29, 2020Our parashah this week begins a new era in the life of a new generation since nearly a thirty-eight-year gap had passed since the previous event. When the new generation…
read moreParashat Korah – Living in Paradise
Arianna Schudrich | WED, JUN 24, 2020A Jewish mentor once shared this anecdote: What is the difference between Gan Eden (Paradise) and Gehinnom (Hell)? In Hell, they sit at a table of food, but with forks…
read moreParashat Shelah – Words of the Wise
Arianna Schudrich | MON, JUN 15, 2020In the Parasha this week, the greatest rebellion against Moshe’s leadership was gaining strength when Caleb abruptly quieted the people down and spoke his uplifting words of encouragement to enter…
read moreParashat Beha’alotcha – I Had A Dream
Arianna Schudrich | THU, JUN 11, 2020A man passed away, leaving a will for his only son. But the executors of the will were left dumbfounded: the man had specified that his son was only to…
read moreParashat Nasso – “Not everything that can be counted, counts”
Arianna Schudrich | WED, JUN 03, 2020“Not everything that can be counted counts”, Albert Einstein One of the most beautiful blessings ever given is the blessing given to us by G-d every day bestowed during Birkat…
read moreShabbat Shavuot – Appreciation
Arianna Schudrich | WED, MAY 27, 2020As dad opened his birthday gift, he was shocked to discover a parrot trained to sing him praises: “You’re the best!” “You’re awesome!” “We love you!” An accompanying note read:…
read moreParashat Bemidbar: Beyond the Subject Matter
Arianna Schudrich | WED, MAY 20, 2020As the genealogy of the Israelite tribes is recorded in the Parashah this week, it is puzzling that when the children of Moshe and Aharon, his brother, are listed, it…
read moreParashat Behar-Bechukotai – The Power of Learning
Arianna Schudrich | WED, MAY 13, 2020What’s more powerful than a Nuclear bomb? “Cyber warfare” “Perhaps. But, students, what would be far more powerful than both cyber warfare and a nuclear bomb?” Planting a virus into…
read moreParashat Emor – “Fortunate is the generation whose leader is willing to admit having erred.”-Talmud
Arianna Schudrich | TUE, MAY 05, 2020Being a leader requires walking a fine line. On the one hand, the authority of the position must be maintained, and on the other, a leader must be great enough…
read moreParashat Achrei Mot-Kedoshim – Love & Happiness
Arianna Schudrich | WED, APR 29, 2020It was 1944, and there was a terrible hunger in the city of Samarkand. Mordechai was starving when he approached a fellow Jew’s home late one evening. He was hoping…
read moreParashat Tazria – Tahorot – Preaching or Teaching?
Arianna Schudrich | MON, APR 20, 2020The laws surrounding the purification process of the Metsorah (leper) include the use of the hyssop plant, which is a very low growing plant reaching only a few inches off…
read moreParashat Shmini – Our Existence
Arianna Schudrich | MON, APR 13, 2020“What did you learn in Sunday school today?” Mrs. G asks her son. “We learned that Jews left Egypt and came to the Red Sea, Moses built a bridge for…
read moreShabbat Passover – Teaching What Counts
Arianna Schudrich | MON, APR 06, 2020During the confinement and quarantine that we have all been subjected to, there has been one strong emphasis that families have been consumed with, educating our children. Mothers and fathers…
read moreParashat Tzva – Normalcy. What’s That?
Arianna Schudrich | WED, APR 01, 2020We are living in historic times. Painful, but historic. Times where normalcy has disappeared. Anything we thought was normal or expected is now replaced with uncertainty and the unknown. A…
read moreParashat Vayikra – Good Character in the Face of Uncertainty
Arianna Schudrich | TUE, MAR 24, 2020During one of the most difficult times of Jewish history, the siege of Jerusalem (70 C.E.) by the Roman army, with over 1.1 million civilians. Many of those civilians traveled…
read moreParashat Vaykhel-Pekudei-Hahodesh – Opportunity for Renewal
Arianna Schudrich | THU, MAR 19, 2020This being the Shabbat that falls on before the first of Nissan, we read an additional portion, the section of Hachodesh (Exodus 12:1-20), which relates G‑d’s words to Moses in Egypt two weeks before the Exodus, instructing…
read moreParashat Ki Tissah-Parah – Better Tomorrows
Arianna Schudrich | MON, MAR 09, 2020We read in the Parasha this week about how the nation succumbed to their feelings of despair at the absence of Moshe, their leader, and created the golden calf. Rabbi…
read moreParashat Tatzaveh – Unearth the Boundless Joy
Arianna Schudrich | THU, MAR 05, 2020During WWII, a Nazi approached a Jewish concentration camp inmate with a sadistic challenge. “Figure out which one of my eyes is fake, or I kill you,” he proposed. The…
read moreParashat Termuah – Humanly Righteous
Arianna Schudrich | MON, FEB 24, 2020“They will make for Me a sanctuary and I will dwell in their midst.” Our tradition relates that when Moshe was given the commandment to build the sanctuary which would…
read moreParashat Mishpatim – Develop a Taste For It
Arianna Schudrich | WED, FEB 19, 2020Standing on the Brooklyn bridge Josh calls out his last wishes and gets ready to make his final leap… Suddenly a good Samaritan forcefully holds back Josh and deposits him…
read moreParashat Yitro – The Growth of a Nation
Arianna Schudrich | WED, FEB 12, 2020The most significant event in human history, receiving of the Torah at Mount Sinai, forms the structure of the values of modern society. Perhaps the most noteworthy feature of the…
read moreParashat Beshalah – Is Love a Smooth Ride?
Arianna Schudrich | THU, FEB 06, 2020“How do you keep your marriage intact?” a young man asked his happily-married friend. “It’s simple,” answered the friend, “I take care of all the big issues – the war…
read moreParashat Bo – The Gift of Light
Arianna Schudrich | WED, JAN 29, 2020In describing the ninth plague of darkness, the Torah contrasts the light that lit up the dwellings of the children of Israel and the darkness and gloom that enveloped the…
read moreParashat Bo – Aristotle The Human
Arianna Schudrich | TUE, JAN 21, 2020“You, of all people! How can you do such a thing?!” Aristotle’s students exclaimed in surprise. They were appalled. Their beloved and knowledgeable teacher was caught in the act. “Dear…
read moreParashat Shemot – Growth and Potential Make a Nation
Arianna Schudrich | TUE, JAN 14, 2020Moshe, the great defender of the Jewish people, was initially skeptical about the worthiness of the people to be chosen to receive G-d’s Torah. Years before, he had fled for…
read moreParashat Vayechi – I’m Not Alone
Arianna Schudrich | WED, JAN 08, 2020A young boy was playing on the beach when he was suddenly swept away in a violent tidal wave. “Dear G-d, please save my child!” cried his frightened mother. Lo…
read moreParashat Vayigash: Politics is All About the Economy
Arianna Schudrich | MON, DEC 30, 2019Yosef became the most powerful economic leader of the land. He was an astute economics genius who sustained the population through a devastating famine and ensured the devotion of the…
read moreParashat Miketz – Secret for Success
Arianna Schudrich | MON, DEC 23, 2019A successful businessman was once invited to give a lecture to a group of students in business school. Towards the end of his lecture one student asked him, “Mr. Businessman,…
read moreParashat Vayeshev – Instilling Character
Arianna Schudrich | TUE, DEC 17, 2019Yosef, a young attractive man all alone in a foreign land, finds himself the focus of the wife of the household in her repeated attempts to seduce him. His first…
read moreParashat Vayishlach – We Need Your Flame
Arianna Schudrich | THU, DEC 12, 2019A student once approached his wise teacher and expressed disappointment over the many areas in his life that weren’t as he wanted or hoped them to be. Responded his teacher,…
read moreParashat Vayeseh – The Envy of the Righteous
Arianna Schudrich | MON, DEC 02, 2019When Leah conceived and gave birth to her forth child she declared, “This time I will be grateful to G-d.” Leah named her son Yehuda and as a result we…
read moreParashat Toldot – We Need A Real Change
Arianna Schudrich | WED, NOV 27, 2019When I was young and free I dreamed of changing the world. As I grew older and wiser, and realized the world would not change, I shortened my sights somewhat…
read moreParashat Haye Sara: The Small Act of Kindness that Changed History
Arianna Schudrich | WED, NOV 20, 2019“Rivka said, ’Drink sir’, and she quickly let down her pitcher from her hand and gave him to drink together with his camels.” Of all the stories the Torah tells,…
read moreParashat Vayera – Excuse me! That’s confidential
Arianna Schudrich | WED, NOV 13, 2019A show host is grilling his guest on various aspects of his life during a radio interview. The guest answers question after question on the nitty-gritty of his relationships and…
read moreParashat Lekh Lekha: A Solemn Oath
Arianna Schudrich | WED, NOV 06, 2019The Torah goes to great lengths to describe the details of the lives of our forefathers because of the moral lessons their actions convey. Abraham, a man of peace and…
read moreParashat Noach – Why Jews Love the Moon
Arianna Schudrich | TUE, OCT 29, 2019“Which is more important, the sun or the moon?” a citizen of Chelm asked the town Rabbi. “What a silly question!” exclaimed the Rabbi. “The moon, of course! It shines…
read moreParashat Beresheet – Humility listens; Arrogance talks
Arianna Schudrich | WED, OCT 23, 2019The crowning act of genesis was the creation of man, where G-d declared, “Let us make man.” Our sages comment on the use of the plural “Let us”, even though…
read moreParashat Ha’Azinu
Arianna Schudrich | THU, OCT 10, 2019“The mighty rock, His deeds are perfect, for all His paths are just.” This verse is part of the opening lines of the song of Haazinu in which Moshe describes…
read moreParashat Vayeilech – Unleash Your Talents
Arianna Schudrich | WED, OCT 02, 2019Here is a special anecdote for the High Holidays! “Mom, why do we have such huge eye lases?” the baby camel asked her mother. “They protect us from the mighty…
read moreParashat Nitsavim – Rosh Hashanah 5780 – Be the Author in your Book of Life
Arianna Schudrich | THU, SEP 26, 2019Abraham Lincoln once said, “My great concern is not whether I have failed, but whether I am content with my failure.” Our celebration of the new year is not just…
read moreParashat Ki Tavo – Commitment the Key to Relationship
Arianna Schudrich | THU, SEP 19, 2019My recommendation clearly spells it out, “I’m the best salesman in our company”. Why didn’t I get the job? Because you overlooked the end of the recommendation; “The best salesman,…
read moreParashat Ki Teseh – Is It Love or Lust?
Arianna Schudrich | THU, SEP 12, 2019There are several pairings of emotional states that are often confused for one another and if misidentified can lead to conflicting emotions. For example, guilt, which reflects a sense of…
read moreParashat Shoftim – Who Cares?
Arianna Schudrich | WED, SEP 04, 2019The dog came to the heavenly court with a complaint: “I am completely degraded down on earth!” he cried. “The lion, which tears other animals apart, is honored as king…
read moreParashat Re’eh – Living Life in Moderation
Arianna Schudrich | TUE, AUG 27, 2019The marshmallow test is one of the most famous pieces of social-science research: Put a marshmallow in front of a child, tell her that she can have a second one…
read moreParashat Eikev – I own it
Arianna Schudrich | WED, AUG 21, 2019“Dad, why can’t you tell me the answer? I will score 100 and win the prize!” “Son, I’m gifting you the greatest price, ‘The feeling of owning something.’ When you…
read moreParashat Va’et’hanan – A Little Bit of Light Pushes Away a lot of Darkness.
Arianna Schudrich | MON, AUG 12, 2019We read this week about Moshe’s retelling of revelation, the receiving of the Torah on Mount Sinai, that occurred forty years prior. Over the last three millennia, the Ten Commandments…
read moreParashat Debarim – Jewish Survival
Arianna Schudrich | TUE, AUG 06, 2019The celebrated Israeli military leader and politician, Moshe Dayan, was once stopped by a police officer for a speeding violation. “You – Dayan?” – asked the officer in surprise when…
read moreParashat Matot-Mas’ei – The Power of Speech
Arianna Schudrich | WED, JUL 31, 2019“A person shall not violate his word, but fulfill everything that emerges from his mouth.” Words matter! Our Torah puts great emphasis on words and how we express ourselves, as…
read moreParashat Pinehas – Exclusiveness
Arianna Schudrich | FRI, JUL 26, 2019I once visited a friend of mine who is a diamond dealer. As he guided me through his showcase, he pointed out one particular diamond: “That one is literally priceless,”…
read moreParashat Balak – Privacy, Our Sacred Space
Arianna Schudrich | THU, JUL 18, 2019King Solomon wisely said, “Let others praise you and not your own mouth”. There is no more beautiful description of the Jewish nation than the statement of our sworn enemy…
read moreParashat Hukat – Jewish Nukes
Arianna Schudrich | THU, JUL 11, 2019They say that WWII fighter pilots, entrusted with the most destructive weaponry of all time, weren’t actually aware of the potential damage that would be caused by the bombs they…
read moreParashat Korah – An Opportunity for Divine Leniency
Arianna Schudrich | TUE, JUL 02, 2019Korah, the first cousin of Moshe and Aharon, orchestrates a web of rebellion consisting of an amalgam of disparate groups with their own conflicting self interests battling to bring down…
read moreAre we outdated?
Arianna Schudrich | FRI, JUN 28, 2019The large clock was the talk of the town: it was flawlessly accurate and kept everyone on schedule. The townspeople had only one problem, the clock was simply too high up. Why…
read moreSacrifices in our Mini Temple
Arianna Schudrich | WED, APR 10, 2019The city was in an uproar: a well-known veteran beggar had won the million-dollar lottery! Reporters scrambled to gain information on this unique win, and the same question was on…
read moreParashat Tazria – Measure for Measure
Arianna Schudrich | WED, APR 03, 2019This weeks Parasha details the physical manifestation of a spiritual malaise, the primary cause of which is due to slander and the spreading of gossip and character assassination, something so…
read moreParashat Shemini – Taking Responsibility is the price of greatness
Arianna Schudrich | TUE, MAR 26, 2019The Torah is not merely a record of historical events but a guide book to teach humanity ethical lessons and codes of conduct. Therefore, the incidents that are recorded in…
read moreIf you can keep your head when all about you are losing theirs -Rudyard Kipling
Arianna Schudrich | MON, MAR 18, 2019Many of the Korbanot (sacrifices) that are brought in the Temple are for misconduct and imperfect decisions that we often make in our everyday lives. Our Sages say, “A person…
read moreParashat Vayikra – If you’re not challenged you’re not going to change
Arianna Schudrich | MON, MAR 11, 2019The book of Vayikra is the consolidation of the birth of our nation into an ongoing covenant, completing and affirming the Sinai experience. Most fittingly, the book begins with G-d…
read moreDog of the Hunter
Arianna Schudrich | MON, MAR 04, 2019In times gone by, when men would hunt for bear in the wild, they would first send a dog as “bait.” The dog’s presence would set off a chase with…
read moreParashat Pikudei – Transparency Builds Trust
Arianna Schudrich | MON, MAR 04, 2019The Torah devotes an entire section to record Moshe’s long detailed account of all the monies and gifts that were received and spent during the construction of the Tabernacle. Even…
read moreParashat Vayak’hel – Finding Meaning in the Mundane
Arianna Schudrich | TUE, FEB 26, 2019The copper washbasin that was placed at the entrance to the tent of meeting, from which the priests would wash, was fashioned from the mirrors of the women. Our…
read moreIs she priceless?
Arianna Schudrich | TUE, FEB 26, 2019At a conference of educators, a renowned teacher was singled out for advice: “Why do your students love hearing criticism from you?” attendees asked, “It’s our greatest challenge – what’s…
read moreParashat Ki Tissa – Crisis is a Call to Action
Arianna Schudrich | WED, FEB 20, 2019The greatest qualities of leadership are often revealed during severe crises, as Sir Winston Churchill famously said, “Character is manifested in the great moments.” During the episode of the golden…
read moreOpen-Mindedness
Arianna Schudrich | FRI, FEB 15, 2019A businessman is riding the train when an individual dressed in what seemed like traditional Chassidic garb sits down next to him. Observing his seatmate, the businessman blurts out: “Sir,…
read moreParashat Tesaveh – The Spiritual Life
Arianna Schudrich | TUE, FEB 12, 2019The Torah portions that we are presently reading describes in great detail the building of the sanctuary and the beautiful and ornate holy vessels that make up the Tabernacle. When…
read moreStop Learning
Arianna Schudrich | MON, FEB 04, 2019A learned individual was giving a sermon in the town synagogue. Throughout his talk, as he repeatedly quoted specific pages from the Talmud from where he had derived he content,…
read moreParashat Terumah – Nation Building
Arianna Schudrich | MON, FEB 04, 2019Parashat Terumah (gifts), which details the building of the sanctuary and the donations which were to be accepted from the nation, is placed immediately after the fiscal and social laws…
read moreYes, I’m Stiff Necked
Arianna Schudrich | MON, JAN 28, 2019Victor Frankl was among the millions of Jews who suffered under the merciless hand of the Nazis in war-torn Europe. In relating his personal experience in the death camps, Frankl…
read moreParashat Mishpatim – The First Duty of Society is Justice – Alexander Hamilton
Arianna Schudrich | MON, JAN 28, 2019The very first Parasha, after the giving of the Torah described in last week’s portion, deals primarily with financial and social laws which make up the structure of a just…
read moreWhat Does She Want?
Arianna Schudrich | TUE, JAN 22, 2019A professional drummer was considering the perfect 25th anniversary gift for his wife. He finally settles on something really special, and as he presents the beautifully wrapped box, says “…
read moreParashat Yitro – “With humility comes knowledge” (Proverbs 11:2)
Arianna Schudrich | TUE, JAN 22, 2019“With humility comes knowledge” (Proverbs 11:2). “Even if the entire world considers you a pious person, nevertheless you should not consider yourself as such” (Talmud). The giving of the Ten…
read moreDo you appreciate Art?
Arianna Schudrich | THU, JAN 17, 2019Two young boys had earned themselves a name in town for being sticky-fingered; if ever something went missing, they were always the first suspects. One morning, the local rabbi approached…
read moreParashat Beshalah – The Challenge Within
Arianna Schudrich | WED, JAN 16, 2019“They came to Marah, the place of encampment, and could not drink of the waters for they were bitter.” The great sage, Rabbi Israel, best known as the Baal Shem…
read moreI Made a Mistake
Arianna Schudrich | THU, JAN 10, 2019When the world was created, an interesting court case ensued, wherein Mistake took Wisdom to court before God. “I am purposeless in this universe,” claimed Mistake. “By giving the human…
read moreParashat Bo – From Slavery to Freedom
Arianna Schudrich | TUE, JAN 08, 2019“The difference between technology and slavery is that slaves are fully aware that they are not free” N. Taleb In this week’s Torah portion we are given the very first…
read moreParashat Va’era – You’re never forgotten “Home Alone”
Arianna Schudrich | WED, JAN 02, 2019The beginning formation of the Jewish nation and our relationship with the Creator revolves around the ten plagues that were brought against Egypt. These were open revealed miracles for all…
read moreWho is in Control?
Arianna Schudrich | WED, JAN 02, 2019A wise teacher was once discussing with his students the concept of influencing one’s behavior. “The human being is capable of controlling his emotions and actions,” he explained, ” it…
read moreParashat Shemot – Kindness: The Essence of Greatness
Arianna Schudrich | WED, DEC 26, 2018“Moses grew up and went out to his people and saw their suffering.” With this brief description, the Torah introduces us to the greatest personality of our entire history, “Moses…
read moreSecret to Success
Arianna Schudrich | WED, DEC 26, 2018A successful businessman was one invited to give a lecture to a group of students in a business school. Towards the end of his lecture one student asked him, “Mr.…
read moreThe American Idol
Arianna Schudrich | WED, DEC 19, 2018A businessman once commented to his friend, the educator: “How can you be so sure of your ideas when there is such a big world out there?” Responded the educator:…
read moreParashat Vayehi – Teach a Child According to His Way (Proverbs 22:6)
Arianna Schudrich | WED, DEC 19, 2018“Jacob blessed his sons each one according to his specific traits.” Our sages explain this to mean that Jacob gave each son the blessing suitable and distinct for him, although…
read moreParashat Vayigash – Make Adjustments Not Excuses
Arianna Schudrich | WED, DEC 12, 2018Joseph’s life and attitude was very unique in that we find that in every situation he found himself, he achieved excellence. Whether as a son, servant, prisoner, viceroy, provider or…
read moreChanukah Message
Arianna Schudrich | WED, DEC 12, 2018A student once approached his wise teacher and expressed disappointment over the many areas in his life that weren’t as he wanted or hoped them to be. Responded his teacher,…
read moreIt’s All About the Messenger
Arianna Schudrich | THU, DEC 06, 2018At a conference of educators, a renowned teacher was singled out for advice: “Why do your students love hearing criticism from you?” attendees asked, “It’s our greatest challenge – what’s…
read moreParashat Mi’kes – When opportunity knocks…
Arianna Schudrich | THU, DEC 06, 2018“And Pharaoh awoke, he went back to sleep and dreamt a second time”(41:4). One of the most famous questions asked in this week’s Parasha is why did Joseph volunteer unsolicited…
read moreParashat Vayesheb – Self Confidence-Recipe for Success
Arianna Schudrich | FRI, NOV 30, 2018In our Parasha this week the Torah relates that Joseph asked the servants of Pharaoh who were in the prison with him “Why do your faces appear so dejected today?”…
read moreJewish Continuity
Arianna Schudrich | TUE, NOV 20, 2018A well-known Jewish professor, NY Times bestselling author, and communal activist on an international level was terribly broken when he realized that his son had no interest in any of…
read moreParashat Vayishlah – Life’s Challenges: A Call to Action Not Despair
Arianna Schudrich | TUE, NOV 20, 2018When Yaakob heard that Esau was marching toward him with an army of 400 men, he was very afraid. Our Sages in the Midrash compare Yaakob’s fear of confrontation with…
read moreParashat Vayeseh – Living Free
Arianna Schudrich | THU, NOV 15, 2018Yaakob’s only material request is bread to eat and clothing to wear. The Talmud gives worldly advice in the statement, “one who eats fatty meat may need to hide in…
read moreI’m not in the mood
Arianna Schudrich | THU, NOV 15, 2018A police academy conference was called to discuss the long-term implications of police officers shooting criminals. During the conference, an anonymous police officer called in to share his personal experience,…
read moreParashat Toledot – Taking Good to Great
Arianna Schudrich | TUE, NOV 06, 2018“When the boys grew up, Esau became a skillful hunter, a man of the outdoors, but Jacob was a mild man who stayed in camp”. We see that, from the…
read morePittsburgh and #ShowUpForShabbat
Arianna Schudrich | THU, NOV 01, 2018It is unfortunate that we, as a people, have a long-standing know-how on dealing with tragedy and hatred. We do not succumb or hide. Instead, we rise even stronger. The…
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