Tzimtzum, Hubris and Two Types of Rabbis

It was in my homiletics class. That’s one of the several classes we took in the art of sermonizing and our instructor was the great Rabbi David Wolpe. At one point, he said to us, “I’m a cat rabbi. There are dog rabbis and cat rabbis.” By this he meant that he ran cool and lived at a bit more of a remove. 

Remember When – Parshat Bo 5777

What advice do you hear most often just before a major life event? “Live in the moment because the memories will last a lifetime.” We spend so much time anticipating the birth of a baby (months of mental preparation, getting the house in order, picking a name, planning the welcoming ceremony), but the moment of the birth itself quickly fades, as do future milestones of childhood.

Heal You Shall Heal

Over the last weeks, many people I've spoken with have reported how they are suffering from insomnia, anxiety, depression or feelings of gloom. After the more recent bomb threats against dozens of Jewish community centers across the nation, numerous local Jewish professionals are also experiencing increased fear. I've seen people spontaneously tear up or outright cry.

When Tolerance is the Worst Decision – Parshat Vaera 5777

There are moments as a parent when I feel like the best I can do is accept and move on. So we have a day when my three-year-old won’t wear her clothes? Fine, a day spent in PJs isn’t so bad, even if she’s going to two birthday parties. Turns out we can’t handle a sudden change in the bedtime routine?