Is the World More Peaceful?

I see it often expressed that we are living in a world of increased darkness and chaos. Fears of terrorism reach a diversity of people, regardless of ethnic background, location or social class. People are afraid to ride the subway, sit down in a café, and this isn’t just in the Land of Israel, but the fear penetrates even in former safe havens, such as Middle America. Right now, we are worried about Iran and its nuclear capabilities; its declared enemies are the U.S. and Israel, which it plans to “wipe off the map (but we are approaching the holiday … Continue reading

Focus on the Oscars: Slumdog Millionaire

Tonight, is the Academy Awards and among those nominated for Best Picture is a film that features Brad Pitt, one that features Leonardo DiCaprio, and one that features Sean Penn. There is a film that chronicles the exchange between a talk show host and a disgraced U.S. President. And then, there is Slumdog Millionaire. More than any of the other films, Slumdog Millionaire has generated a ton of Oscar buzz. Although many mistake it for a Bollywood film because of its Indian background, it is actually a British film. It was written by Simon Beaufov and directed Danny Boyle. It … Continue reading

An Open Letter to Susie Essman

Dear Susie, First of all, I’d like to invite you to my home when you come to Jerusalem (not planning a trip to Jerusalem? Well, we all will find ourselves here eventually). I must warn you, my apartment is small and needs renovation. My wig may need some restyling (taking my wig to a stylist is a luxury I can afford before holidays and sometimes in between). I may not be dressed in the latest fashions. But don’t think this is true of all Lubavitch Jewish women. You would have seen a very similar person if you would have met … Continue reading