What does refusnik mean? It was an unofficial term for individuals, typically—but not exclusively—Soviet Jews, who were denied permission to leave the country. Over time, it has entered colloquial English meaning a person who refuses to do something, especially by way of protest.
In today’s world desires are met almost immediately. We all enjoy having instant answers from the Internet, skipping commercials, and next-day shipping, but we should know that in this climate of speedy satisfaction, it’s much harder to strengthen that part of the brain that controls one’s impulses. The reason it is important to have well developed impulse control is because there are links between this ability and success, as well as the reverse: studies show a connection between poor impulse control and addiction. Without giving up the convenience of a more efficient lifestyle, there are ways to develop one’s impulse control.
Judaism is a system for living that is built on obligations as opposed to rights. This is especially true with respect to the Jewish approach to marriage. Obligations foster responsibility and giving. Rights foster a sense of entitlement which can lead to irresponsibility. In Judaism, one is not entitled to anything. Everything good we have is a gift.
Books in hand, students walked briskly, with their parents not far behind, to begin fun, yet intense, discussions at the 3rd and 4th Grade Parent/Child Book Clubs. These evenings, geared towards fostering and encouraging a child’s love of reading, were brought to fruition by PKRE (Parents and Kids Reading for Enjoyment).
When we see a beautiful girl, many of us say “she’s so pretty; she doesn’t need makeup.” I disagree. The most beautiful woman in the world can still be enhanced with a little blush and mascara. When you think about it, even the models that are on the covers of the most famous beauty magazines not only have a full face of makeup, but their pictures are always touched up and air brushed. We have an obsession with looking natural and natural is good, however there are tricks to use, so you can look like the girl next door, while still wearing cosmetics.
Dear Body,
I love and respect you, but I don’t want my life to revolve around you. You’ve been with me for as long as I can remember. When I was little I remember how much I loved to swing with you towards the sky and run with you across the baseball field at school. You carried me down ski slopes and to the depths of the lake in the summer. You miraculously held my children and brought them into the world. You have quietly borne the pain of my pre-dawn spinning classes and insane runs through snow.
Sibling rivalry is one of the toughest challenges of parenting. Even my attorney friends don’t feel equipped to mediate the conflicts that arise over who gets to press the button in the elevator, or what to do when the juice in their children’s cups are not exactly even.
Years ago, a devoted group of men from our community saw our desperate need for a school. Not just any school, but a yeshivah that would instill in our youth the right education, engrave in our girls the mesorah (heritage)of our people, and teach them the ways of the Torah. Their dream became reality.
An unforgettable saga, “The Debt of Tamar” spans generations, exploring the themes of love, loss, family and faith. From 16th century Portugal to modern-day Manhattan, it begs the question, how do we embrace not only the legacy of our forefathers, but also, the power within ourselves to forge ahead with our own destinies?
Fish Oil and BedsoresAnyone who has ever had a bedsore knows that they are very uncomfortable. Worse, they also pose life-threatening dangers. Now there’s good news for those confined to their bed. An Israeli research team recently announced that common fish oil helps heal pressure sores and may also alleviate pain.
The absolutely outrageous amount of snow this winter is getting very frustrating. The freezing temperatures, having to shovel our sidewalks, driveways and especially digging out our cars every other day is incredibly tiring. Yet, most of us are taking it in stride and doing our best to stay positive.
Did you know…
• 1 out of 4 females and 1 out of 6 males will be abused by the age of 18.
• 6 out of 10 victims will be abused by someone they know and trust from school, shul, lessons…
• 3 out of 10 victims will be abused by a family member.
The Council of Jewish Organizations of Flatbush (COJO) will honor Mayor Bill de Blasio, Police Commissioner William Bratton, Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito, Comptroller Scott Stringer, Ari Baum, David Heskiel and other notables at its 35th Annual Community Legislative Breakfast on Sunday morning, March 23, 2014, in Brooklyn.
One of the four mitzvahs of Purim is to send edible gifts, called mishloach manot, to family and friends. Mishloach manot means the sending of portions, in Hebrew. Sending mishloach manot is meant to ensure that everyone has enough food to enjoy the traditional Purim feast. It is also thought of as an opportunity to strengthen relationships between people. What better way to show someone you’ve thought about them during the holiday than by sending a gift basket?
