Just a short tip today. One of the most annoying things about orthodoxy is the sheer volume of candlewax that invades every part of your life. (Drip cups are always a good idea, but they can only lessen the inevitable.) I know Chanukah is getting close when I begin thinking, “Ok, it’s time to clean […]
Getting Ready for Chanukah: The On-Going War with Candle Wax Read Post »
A book has just been released that you should consider buying or checking out from the library. (Since it literally has just been published, you may have to request that your library get a copy of the book. It’s a simple procedure.) Disclosures: I did not receive this book to review it. However, I did
A Convenient Hatred: The History of Antisemitism Read Post »
I get very annoyed at how “modern” is thrown around like an insult. Conversion candidates seem to feel this struggle more acutely than the frum-from-birth crowd. Baalei teshuva are probably in the same boat as the conversion candidates, but at least they’re still Jewish at the end of the day. Even the people who act
Why I Am “Modern Orthodox” Read Post »
When you bentch, you may notice that sometimes a person leads the bentching and sometimes not. Chances are, you won’t be leading the benching anytime soon, but you may be confused what’s going on. I wondered about this constantly, but by the time bentching was over, I’d forgotten my question! Before we start, go grab
Word of the Day: Mezumen Read Post »
Just a subtle suggestion if you happen to find yourself worshipping the porcelain god: So if you thought you saw this before, you probably were not crazy. I actually did take this picture, at a Dunkin Donuts in Brooklyn.
Proselytizing to Drunk People? Read Post »
You may have noticed that things have changed. The blog has had its design revamped, and there’s even a new color scheme! Likewise, the “subtitle” of the blog has changed because the old one was too long for this design. I’m open to other subtitles if you have a brilliant suggestion! Now I have most of
UPDATED: Management Update: Changes Abound Read Post »
I’ve been trying to decide how to approach the Chabad question for several months. It is definitely an issue that needs to be addressed for conversion candidates because many discover Judaism through local Chabad houses. However, it is difficult to handle a controversy fairly and without making too many people angry! I am not Chabad,
Controversies You Should Understand: Chabad Conversions Read Post »
Even the other toothbrushes don’t like Shabbos Toothbrush :'(
No One Likes the Holier-Than-Thou Guy Read Post »
This time of the year is like walking on eggshells for many conversion candidates and converts in the Christian world. And even the supportive families can become a little crazy now, even if in their overenthusiasm. Christmas is coming, whether you like it or not. [Full disclosure: I don’t like Xmas at all.] And this
The “Holiday Season” Is Upon Us Read Post »
Nightmares are probably the strangest sign that you’ve really cast your lot with the Jewish people. But they seem to be universal: everyone begins to have nightmares about Nazis, the Holocaust, or other anti-Semitism. [I don’t think anyone dreams about the Cossacks.] It seems unavoidable. Interestingly (and in my totally unscientific opinion), I believe it’s one of
Signs You’ve Made It: Nightmares Read Post »