My biggest hurdle in becoming orthodox has been going back to the basics. Most converts who’ve already gone through one conversion feel like we know stuff. We’re not newbies, so why are we back at the beginning?? It can be incredibly frustrating and ego-busting. Even new converts can be incredibly frustrated by suddenly feeling like […]
Reason #301 You Know You’re Crazy: You’ve Got a Crazy Minhag
I apologize if you read this yesterday, but the management had a finals-induced FAIL. I have a weird minhag that no one else around me has: I don’t place religious books where people sit. I hear this isn’t an uncommon minhag in chareidi circles. However, modern orthodox Jews generally seem to think I’m crazy with […]
Dog versus Rabbi Eliyahu Kitov: Who Will Survive??
Clearly, my dog doesn’t appreciate good chassidus. However, the book put up an impressive fight. Most of it is still bound together! Of course, I was only 1/4 of the way through the book. Reading a demolished book is absolutely frustrating!
The Best Inventions Every Convert Should Own
These are the things I’ve found most useful in transitioning to an observant life. Timers. Environmentally friendly and useful for kicking out Shabbat dinner guests who won’t leave at a decent hour! I usually set mine to go off at 1am, but most people seem to prefer midnight. They’re cheap: about $10 for a timer […]