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?
Mishpatim: The Roadmap to Becoming Who You Want to Be
Mishpatim might seem like a long list of rules, but what if it's actually a roadmap? Judaism teaches that transformation doesn’t happen in a monastery or on a mountaintop—it happens through daily actions. The way we treat people, the choices we make, and the small acts of integrity shape who we become. Your actions aren’t just things you do—they’re who you are becoming.
Manna, Minimalism, and My Grandpa Lenny
"Take all you want but eat all you take"—my Grandpa Lenny’s mealtime wisdom from his army days echoes through my life. In Parshat Beshalach, the Israelites received a similar lesson with the manna: take only what you need, or risk it spoiling. What does this ancient wisdom teach us in a world of excess and consumer culture?
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.
Parasha Vayechi: The Nuances of "Living"
Parasha Vayechi reminds us life is a dance between comfort/stability and embracing vitality and growth. In this week’s blog, I explore the nuances of "living" in the Hebrew words “vayechi” and “vayeshev”, using Joseph’s journey to reflect on how the balance between both types of living are essential to a life well lived.
Parasha Vayigash: Exploring Emotional Complexity and Human Connection in the Torah
In Parasha Vayigash, Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers, bringing decades of tension to a dramatic climax. This Torah portion invites us to reflect on emotional expression and human complexity, offering timeless lessons about grief, forgiveness, and connection. Dive into this week’s commentary to explore how Joseph’s journey mirrors our own emotional struggles and triumphs.
Joseph’s Journey: Choosing Growth Over Resentment in Parashah Miketz
What would you do if those who betrayed you came seeking your help? In Parashah Miketz, Joseph’s journey from prisoner to Pharaoh’s second-in-command teaches powerful lessons about forgiveness, resilience, and personal growth. Discover how his story challenges us to choose growth over resentment, turn adversity into opportunity, and embrace true transformation. Includes a thought-provoking journal prompt for your week ahead!
Turning Jealousy into Growth: Lessons from Parashah Vayishev
Parashah Vayishev reminds us that emotions like jealousy and envy hold powerful lessons. Dive into Joseph's story and discover how reframing jealousy can lead to clarity, growth, and transformation in your own life.
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.
Vayetze: What Jacob’s Ladder Teaches Us About Personal Growth and Spirituality
What does Jacob’s ladder have to do with surfing, perfectionism, and personal growth? In Parashat Vayetze, Jacob’s dream of angels climbing and descending a ladder speaks to the nonlinear journey of life. Whether we’re moving up, sliding down, or standing still, there’s meaning to be found exactly where we are. Explore these timeless lessons and take a few journal prompts to reflect on your own path.
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.
What Chayei Sarah Teaches Us About Clarity and Finding the Right Relationship
Chayei Sarah teaches us the power of clarity in life’s biggest decisions. Inspired by this parashah, I’m sharing how getting clear on what you want—whether in a relationship, career, or life—can help you recognize the right path when it appears. Plus, journaling prompts to help you craft your vision.
Sacrificing Integrity: What Vayera Teaches Those Who Struggle with God
In this week’s parasha, Vayera, Abraham’s silence as God demands the unthinkable speaks volumes. What can this ancient story teach us about integrity, faith, and the cost of blind obedience? For those who struggle with the concept of God, the lessons may be more relevant than you think.
Lessons from Parashah Noach: Core Values for Intentional Living
In Parashah Noach, we read about the flood, a fresh start for humanity, and the importance of core values. Discover how this ancient story can inspire you to live more intentionally and align your choices with what truly matters. This post concludes with an practical and insightful exercise to define your own core values and create a path for conscious living.