A Shabbat Under the Mango Trees
Shabbat under the mango trees—a simple yet magical evening of community, connection, and tradition. As we shared food under fairy lights, I was reminded that Shabbat isn’t about perfection, but about pausing, recharging, and finding home wherever we gather.
Terumah – What We Carry With Us
The Tabernacle wasn’t built to stay in one place—it was meant to move, just like us. As a traveler and minimalist, I’ve learned that creating sacred space isn’t about permanence, but about intention. From a travel menorah to a few treasured objects, the things I carry help me stay grounded and connected, no matter where I go. What do you carry with you to make a space feel like home?
When the Dance Feels Heavy: A Practice in Presence
October 7th haunts my ecstatic dance practice. But every Sunday, I show up—to move, to feel, to release, and to honor those who no longer can. Some days, the movement flows. Other days, like this one, it feels heavy and out of sync. In dance, as in life, the practice is the same: pause, breathe, and try again.
Bo: Judaism Is Not About Conversion
Judaism has never been about conversion. In Parashat Bo, God unleashes plague after plague—not to convince the Egyptians of His power, but to solidify the Israelites’ belief and identity. Unlike other religions/cultures, Judaism isn’t about making more Jews; it’s about making sure we never forget who we are.
Va'era, the Holocaust, and the Power of Jewish Questioning
In Parashah Va'era, Moses—one of our greatest leaders—doubts himself and questions God. And yet, instead of being punished, he is met with guidance. Judaism does not demand blind faith; it encourages questioning. As we approach International Holocaust Remembrance Day, we reflect on the difficult questions that have shaped our people. What does it mean to be Jewish after such horrors? What keeps us connected despite generations of adversity? Va’era reminds us that we don’t need certainty to move forward—only the courage to keep asking.
From Shemot to Today: Leadership, Justice, and Compassion
Moses' journey in Shemot teaches us that true leadership isn’t just about defending our own—it’s about expanding our circle of care. We can stand firmly for Israel’s safety, while still feeling compassion for the pain and suffering of others. This balance—fierce advocacy and deep empathy—is what makes leadership truly powerful.
Wrestling with the Torah: Vayishlach’s Lessons
What does it mean to wrestle with identity, uncertainty, and faith? In this week’s parashah, Jacob’s transformation into Israel—'one who wrestles with God'—invites us into a legacy of questioning and growth. As we explore the layered, sometimes unsettling stories in Vayishlach, we uncover how wrestling with meaning keeps Jewish tradition alive and connects us to our shared name: Israel.
Not Religious, Just Deeply Jewish: Exploring Identity Beyond Belief
What does it mean to be proudly Jewish without being religious? In this blog post, I explore how Judaism is more than a religion—it's a culture, a heritage, and a source of spiritual connection that transcends time. Discover how Jewish identity can inspire pride, purpose, and belonging for secular Jews today.
Standing Tall During Antisemitic Times: Building Strength through Knowledge and Identity
The rise in antisemitism today is deeply connected to historical shifts and ideological movements. As digital platforms amplify polarizing voices, nuanced discussions about Israel and Palestine are increasingly drowned out. In this post, I reflect on my own experiences at university, the evolution of the narrative, and how we, as Jews, can stand tall in the face of rising rhetoric and historical distortion.
Lessons from Toldot: What This Torah Portion Teaches Us About Family, Identity, and Personal Growth
Discover how the Torah portion Toldot inspires personal growth. Reflect on the family narratives you’ve inherited, the roles you’ve played, and the masks you wear. Learn how to rewrite your story and step into your most authentic self.
Shaping Sacred Moments: How Jewish Rituals Can Transform Everyday Life and Fuel Personal Growth
Rituals are more than routines—they’re sacred moments that ground and connect us. From childhood holiday traditions to mindfulness practices as a traveler, I’ve discovered how rituals evolve to reflect who we are and what we value. In this post, learn how to transform everyday habits into intentional rituals that bring meaning, presence, and joy to your life, inspired by Jewish culture and beyond.
What Does L’Chaim Really Mean? Bridging Jewish Identity and Personal Growth
L’chaim isn’t just a toast—it’s a powerful reminder to align the life we’re living with the life we’re meant to live. Explore the deeper meaning behind this timeless Jewish phrase and how it can inspire personal growth, purpose, and joy.