Life lessons

Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to travel through Southern Spain, and along the way, I uncovered a rich history that left me both humbled and fascinated. It was a history that, unfortunately, hasn’t always been kind to the Jewish people. Growing up in a neighborhood in New York, I was surrounded by families who were either Jewish or Italian. Most of the Jewish families I knew were Ashkenazi, with roots in Eastern Europe, and I have to admit—I wasn’t particularly aware of the Sephardic Jews or the deep, complex history they share with Spain. The Sephardic Jews’ story is...

As July unfolds in New York, the city's energy quickens with the sweltering sun, and it's not just the temperature rising; it's the Yiddish words that come alive with the season. From shvitzing in the summer heat to leisurely shpatziring through the streets, Yiddish enriches our experience of this vibrant time of year. Shvitz - The word itself conjures up the sensation of sweating profusely in the heat. Originally meaning a steam bath, the shvitz has deep roots in Jewish culture, tracing back to ancient times when bathhouses were integral to communal life. It found a new home in New York’s...

International Women's Day isn't just another date on the calendar; it's a powerful reminder of the strength, resilience, and unwavering spirit of women everywhere. It's a day to honor the trailblazers who shattered glass ceilings, the activists who fought tirelessly for gender equality, and the everyday heroes who inspire us with their courage and determination. One of the most beautiful aspects of International Women's Day is its universality. It's a day that transcends borders, cultures, and languages, bringing together people from all walks of life to champion the rights and freedoms of women. Whether you're in New York or Nairobi,...

My beloved father had a saying "The mind can only absorb what the tuchus can endure."  Although I have found this quote attributed to many different people, I like to think that its wisdom is pure yiddishkeit.  In the treasure trove of cultural acumen, Yiddish proverbs stand out as pearls of insight, summing up the collective experiences and humor of the Jewish people. These succinct and often humorous expressions have been passed down through generations, offering timeless guidance and a touch of Yiddish charm. Here are just a few of these memorable proverbs: "You should grow like an onion with your...

In Judaism, remembrance plays a profound role in connecting generations and honoring the memories of departed loved ones. When my mother passed away a few years ago a friend said to me that our parents are the guiding light in our lives. This is so true and lighting the yarzheit reminds me of that. Several years earlier when my father passed I looked for a yahrzeit candle and realized that they were mainly the jelly jar food store variety. Naturally I went into my studio and created one. And although I know that some people prefer the traditional candle, I...