Moshiach Values

© 2003

Spiritual values

Touching is selfish,
not touching is respect.

If you love only the body, then you can’t love the soul.
But if you love the soul, then you will automatically love the body, forever...

Flaunt your beautiful soul, not your temporary body.
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Ego

The true ego, is the G-dly ego, that transcends self.

One and one makes two, unless they have egos, then they make one and one.

No person is an island unto oneself, but s/he can be a universe, with G-d.
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Desires

Conquering desires, leads to living on a higher plane.

Childish desires, leads to a wasted life.

Like gravity, being pulled down is natural, but the real trick is to rise above it all.

If a person is attached above, then s/he won’t fall below.

Humility, and altruistic motivations, unlock hidden worlds
that are buried deep within me.

By having humility, I become famous, with G-d.

What is important, is that G-d sees me, and knows who I am, and not other people.

An empty bottle has no value, so too an empty person.
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Growth

Excel in your strengths, and improve your weaknesses.

It’s not my money, its Hashem’s money.
I make money, by investing money, in Tzedeka.
When I give money to the poor man, I become rich, spiritually.
Those who seek money, are not happy with money.
Money is finite, Mitzvahs are infinite.
You only live once, if you have no soul.

What makes me greater than you, is that I am kinder than you, more caring, sharing.
When I go beyond myself, my nature, I become great.
A big man is one, who talks to a “little” man.
If a simple person said a great thing, I would learn from him.
A star, is someone whose soul shines.
To be more, is to be less. More ego, less unity.
To be less, is to be more. Less limited- self, more infinite- us.

I am first, when I let you go first, to sit in the front.
Being first, is to be the first one to do a Mitzvah.
I am competing with myself, to always be better.

Being successful, is having health;
the opportunity to serve G-d;
and children that follow in my ways.

The goal is not, to get all the marbles.
The goal is, that everyone should get all the marbles.

Not taking, rather giving.

Being the first in the pecking order of life, makes one a chicken.

Survival of the fittest, or the survival of the soul.
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Intelligence

Being born rich or smart, doesn’t make me rich or smart.
Being rich, is having knowledge of G-d.
I am judged by how much I tried, not how much I accomplished.
My value is based on how much effort I put into, trying to go beyond my natural abilities.
When I work hard to understand, then I am a genius.
What makes me smart, is when I realize that there is a G-d in the world.
A fool, is one that has a G-dly soul and squanders it.

An intelligent person, is one that looks beyond the surface.
S/He sees the good in everybody and in everything. S/He sees the true person.
S/He is not misled by distractions and flash.
A worthy person, is one that realizes, that everyone has worth.
You can’t judge a book by its cover, so too people.
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Beauty

Being prettier than you, does not make me better than you.
As I grow older I don’t decrease in value, rather I increase,

True beauty, is when I have refined character and behavior. Then I am ravishing.
A Yirah Shemayim person, has real, lasting beauty.

True beauty, transcends beauty.
I have to look deep, to see you, the real you.
If you want to look pretty, then you have to act beautiful.
Skin and bones, do not make a human being.
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Love

Love, is finding your Beshert, your soul-mate.

I find my Beshert, through talking, not touching.
Touching distracts, from the real you.

By being close, when we should be far,
we will be far, when we should be close.

Private parts, are just that, private.

Some people dress to reveal their bodies, others dress to reveal their souls.

A love that is based on bodies, will last about fifteen years, (age 20-35).
If one excites only one part of ones being, then the other part (the soul) suffers.

Having many children, doesn’t divide love, rather multiplies it.

A relationship, is when two people understand each others needs.

Guided emotions, is called true love.

You know that you truly love someone,
if you would still love them, after 60 years of marriage.

My wife, is the most special person in the world, because she married me.

A special wife, has a special husband, that made her special.

A handsome man, is a kind man.

Life based on physicality, when the organs wear out, so too life.

Mechanical love, is not human.

Two bodies can’t unite, two souls can.

Blood is thicker than water, but the soul is thicker than blood.

People who only have bodies, have no souls.

The most beautiful woman in the world, is the Rebbe’s wife.

When the shine wears off, the true relationship begins.

Something special, is only shown at certain times.

Hiding is mysterious; revealing is boring.

Our organs are gateways to infinity, that is why they are so attractive.

Relations are for a few minutes, but true love is forever.

Enslaved by the body, or reach the eternal?
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Heat fuses, similarly problems unite husband and wife, man and G-d, spiritually.

When things always go right, we take it for granted,
when things don’t go right, we appreciate it, and grow.

What we have, we take for granted, what is forbidden we are drawn to.

If we would appreciate what we have, instead of what we don’t have,
we would be much happier.

Every person has value, because they are a creation of G-d.

Imperfection, is not an imperfection.

Any lacking one may have, is an opportunity for me to help,
and not a chance for me to put someone down.

We are all equal, striving to do our best.

If my foot hurts, my whole body feels it,
so too, if one person is in pain, the whole world feels it.
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Peer Pressure

Following peer pressure, is for sheep.
The special ones, have the ability to choose, and rise above the average,
and reach the top.

For some, the world is a stage, and they are just actors,
for others, they write the play.

A Jew has to change the world, the world should not change the Jew.
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Riches

Being rich, is having a rich life.
I am rich, when I control myself. Then I am a true success.
To live in an exclusive place, is to live in a holy place, or in a religious community.
Having a fancy Kiddush cup, is worth more, than having a fancy car.

A poor man, is one, that is poor in the knowledge of G-d.
How much I am worth, depends on how many Mitzvahs I did.
Worrying about my possessions, means that the more I have, the more I worry.
Time is precious, not money.

I am judged, by the money I don’t have, not by the money I have,
this being the money, I gave to charity.

Where I live, is not important, but how I live is.
Just because I have a better car, doesn’t mean, that I am better person.
Having more, is not being more.
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Food

Eating good food, is eating Kosher food.
A steak, that had a blessing made on it, is well-done.
The main thing, is not the fleeting taste, rather the lasting elevation.
How it looks, smells, and tastes, is not as important, as how Kosher it is.

More Kosher means, that it is more able to be assimilated by the soul.
It will not cause spiritual cholesterol, by blocking the vessels or channels that connect the soul to G-d.

A small hole in the body, creates a large hole in the soul.
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Clothes

Fancy clothes, are ones that conceal my animal parts,
and as a result, reveal my G-dly parts.

By showing less, I become more.

By making my private parts, public, I become nobody. I’ve sold my soul too cheap.

Just because it is exciting or titillating, doesn’t mean that it is the meaning of life.

Only by uncovering the fake person, can you reveal the real person.
Quality, not quantity.

When light is dissipated, it is weak,
but if it is focused it becomes powerful.
Physicality dissipates, whereas the discipline of spirituality is a laser to happiness.

The body is a holy vehicle, to reach the infinite.
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Strength

Just because I am stronger than you, doesn’t make me better than you.
True strength, is to say that I am wrong, when I’m right.
Peace is the goal, not my territoriality.
Humility unites, ego separates.

True strength, is withstanding the winds of fickleness,
styles, fads, promotions, advertising, etc.

The media wants you to buy, then sells you down the river.

Regarding the Yetzer Hora, the first time is free, after that you pay.
To manipulate my Yetzer Hora, is true greatness.

I compete with myself, and not with you.
I am better than you, when I run faster than you, to help someone else.
I am better than you, when I run to do G-d’s Mitzvahs.
I always try to be the best, person that I can be.
I failed, because I didn’t try.

In the darkest moment, is hidden the greatest light.
One doesn’t grow, by taking the easy path.
When one has reached rock bottom, one can start to grow.
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Happiness

I realize that everything is guided by the “hand” of G-d,
as a result, bad things that happen don’t bother me as much.

A happy life, is seeing the beauty in everything and in everyone.
Doing more, is having more.
More Mitzvahs, more riches.
Machines don’t make one happy, people, and a G-dly life, do.
Leading an electronic life, eventually burns out. TV, is the opiate of the masses.
The greatest sound in the world, is the sound of a child laughing.

Happiness, is knowing that I did the right thing.
Happiness, is a result, not a goal.

Be a truth seeker, not a thrill seeker.

Reading fiction is one thing, living fiction is another.
The greatest high, is to become infinite.

A picture is worth a thousand words,
but an experience is worth a thousand pictures.

A life of meaning, is a meaningful life.

The ultimate goal, is to be the ultimate....
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Life is a voyage. The ship is the body, and we are given the steering wheel, free-choice.

A circle can be viewed as going nowhere, or to be infinite. So too life.

If a person just skims the surface s/he will eventually drown.
A life of a plant, does not flower.
A person that is not connected spiritually, cuts oneself off physically.
Spiritual slavery, is not being able to express ones true potential.
Freedom is connecting with my true nature.
The happiest point in life, is fulfilling my purpose in life.
Having it all, is uniting the spiritual and the physical.

Being a well rounded person, is connecting with my soul.
The soul is like a muscle, if you don't use it, you lose it.
To be great, is to be spiritually complete.
Body is division, the soul is unity.
The more religious, the closer to G-d.

If you feed a tiger, (the animal soul), it only gets bigger.
Don’t only feed it, guide it.
Physical beauty, is a reflection of inner beauty.
Elevated, not degraded. Respected, not used. Give, don’t take.
Ego is like a melting ice cube, that has no substance. It’s like chasing the wind.
We compete with ourselves.
Constantly trying, is constantly being successful.
Clothes don’t make the man, the man makes the clothes.

Free-choice is a G-dly power, one chooses G-d.
Transcend, not transgress.
Time, a thought, a feeling, an action, a life.

Physicality is constantly deteriorating; spirituality is constantly growing.

The highest pleasure, is G-dly pleasure;
but you have to be a vessel, in order to be able to receive it.

G-d recreates the world every moment,
so every moment, is an opportunity to come closer to G-d.

Creation and Creator, meet at man.

The book of life- Chassidus.

The Rebbe, is the Tzadik‘s Tzadik.
Being connected to the Rebbe, is being connected to the truth.
Be a King for a day, do a Mitzvah.

Man transforms lifeless matter, into a heart that feels,
a mind that thinks, a life that achieves, a living being.

Why crawl, when you can fly…

The Spider's Web (The Yetzer Hora)

© 2005

Silky strands, glistening in the entrancing moonlight; slowly shimmering in the summer’s heat. Yet, its seeming innocence belies, what lies beneath...

Enticing man since the beginning of time, it hides in a shadow of a shadow, waiting patiently for the inevitable.

Seemingly innocent and weak, but in reality, devious and irresistible.
It promises ecstasy, but delivers pain. Making the beautiful ugly, and the ugly beautiful.

For eons of time, many have approached its lair and tried to escape, but failed miserably. Making fools of even the wisest of men, its unsuspecting victims are trapped, time and time again.
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Deftly spinning its web in countless ways, the victim’s innocent glance, gives the spider the opening, to shoot its desires deep into his bowels.

The web’s dazzling shine, hypnotizes him, in endless arrays of tantalizing movements and deceptions. One caressing strand, after another, entraps it prey.

Slowly, step by step, the victim comes closer and closer, succumbing to the spider’s irresistible allure. Being pulled in deeper and deeper, into its deadly web.

Suddenly, the spider pounces! Shocked, the captive fiercely struggles to escape. But it’s too late, there is no turning back.
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As bleak night, slowly turns into brilliant day, the spider realizes, that its end is near. It frantically reaches into its bag of tricks, only to find it empty.

All its deceptions have been uncovered, one by one.

Fear races through its being, as it desperately searches one last time; hoping against hope, that just one more trick might be found.

Yes, one is left, the most powerful one- Coldness! For thousands of years it has been hidden, only to be used in a dire situation, for this, the last battle.

The spider gathers all its powers, for this last delusion. It has to work, it cannot fail, all of eternity depends on it.

With Herculean effort, it fights one last battle.
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At first, it seems to be winning; yes one victim falls, another, and another.

But slowly, its energy wanes, as the Tzaddik’s piercing glance, throws the fear of G-d into its abyss; penetrating into the spider’s deepest dungeons; bringing life, where only death reigned.

The game is over.
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Before it was a King, but now only a pauper.
A sad mirage, that entangled mankind in its tentacles, leading them to destruction. Making the worthless seem priceless, and the priceless seem worthless.

Now the mask has been removed; the truth is openly visible. The spider has completed its mission; it has carried man to his destiny.

The time has come; the redemption has arrived!

We Are Right

© 2005

I’m right, your wrong,
It would be funny if it was only a song.
But when it comes to relationships,
it becomes a force that separates.

Up, down, inside-out,
which one is right is open to doubt.
But if it is peace that we seek,
then I must respect you, and you must respect me.

We don’t have to be the same,
in order to be sane,
rather our differences can be our strengths,
instead of causing friction, to fight at lenght.

Like a zipper, each side unites with the other,
so too, you and I can become brothers.

One and one can’t unite,
until we reach a higher light.
The light of the Torah is the only way,
to leave the confines of every day.

I understand you, and you understand me,
that’s the key,
to solve the age old mystery.

Instead of endlessly arguing over whose right,
we listen to each other and stop the fight.
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So let’s both try to see,
if I can understand you, and you can understand me.
Then the whole world will come together,
and there will be happiness forever.

For peace is not just nice and pleasing,
it also has power to bring blessing.
For G-d is revealed in a place of peace.

Then we can touch the infinite,
and help the world become the Garden-of-Eden.
And then we all, will become greater.

So come let’s soar to the greatest heights,
and see the world in a different light.
Then we will realize how foolish we were,
to act like children and be so absurd.

For we will have Moshiach,
and be able to reach our true potential.

When G-d is revealed there will be true joy,
and everyone will always be happy without toys.

The Time Has Come

© 2005

The tiny bundle changing daily, ever so subtly.

The seeds were laid from the beginning of time, only now reaching fruition.
Finally, it has reached its climax. It is now ready for the daring move, into a new life, totally different than the one before.
A bit apprehensive, to take the last breath-taking step, but now there is no turning back.

The instinct that is hidden deep, begins to activate.
Pushed forward by an unrelenting, invisible force.
The contortions begin, twisting and turning in all directions.
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Finally, after a long struggle, there is a tiny break.
Another intense battle, but at last it succeeds; the small break, becomes a gaping hole.
“I’m out! Freedom at last!”
Once an apprehension, now overwhelming joy.

Everything is changing, my feelings, my thinking, the world around. All moving so fast.
What was once beyond grasp, is now easily understood.
Being able to do things, that once seemed impossible.
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The feeling is beyond description, rolling throughout my being.
I discover my glorious wings, and begin to fly in all directions.
Soaring up as far as the eye can see,
and then diving down. Totally exhilarating.

The transformation, is far beyond my wildest imagination.
My hesitance is now long forgotten, as though it never was.
A new being, a new life, a new world.
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Like a child, that has become an adult;
the world has reached maturity.
It has finally achieved the purpose of its creation.

The ugly worm, has turned into a beautiful butterfly.
Now able to perceive G-dliness, and not be blinded.
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As Moshiach’s light pierces through the black hole,
G-dly energy ripples throughout the universe.

The previous world is a distance memory,
now hard to believe that it ever existed.

All of history has been transformed into beauty and grace.
Now a butterfly, that has finally spreads its wings and fly......

The End of Time

© 2005

Fleeting time has stopped for a moment, its energy spent. Its seeming infinity, suddenly made finite. Humbled in the presence of the majestic light.

No past, no present, no future. An instant that deifies physics. A G-dly point, where creation meets Creator.

Time, it flows onward, never looking back. It has only one desire, to reach the end, which is the beginning. It is here today, but gone tomorrow.

It zooms along on its journey, with each instant, impatiently pushing the next. Moving, changing, evolving.
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But now time has increased its pace. Sensing that its end is near, it excitedly leaps forward at break neck speed. Anxious to reach infinity, it recklessly races along, disregarding all that is in its path.

Traveling at the speed of light, it races across the universe. Everything is swept up in its wake. Destiny is quickly approaching, eagerly waiting to be fulfilled.
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You can be one with time, or fight time, but it is inevitable.
Time waits for no man, but man can guide time.
But the time, is now.

Past, present, and future are now one, the boundaries having melted. Transcending time and space, there is no time, it has ceased to exist. It was only a mirage, a tool, a means to an end, that was used to reach our destiny.

We reach another dimension, where we escape its tyranny, it destruction, free of its dictatorial restraints. To where there is only vitality and elevation.

Eternity, where time ceases to exits, its purpose having been fulfilled.

The past has met the future, and they are embracing. They cry about the past, but smile about the future. It is finally over. The waves of time have now purified the creation, allowing it to shine in all its brilliance.
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Time has emerged from the purifing Mikvah, it is a new creation, now ready to enter the marriage canopy with its Creator, in an eternal unity, that can never be broken.

The envious universe looks on in wonder, dancing with joy, as the cup is broken and the Chason and Kallah say LeChaim!

As their gift to the young couple, the stars shine brightly, spreading their light across the universe. The moon’s face is beaming with joy, glowing with a warming radiance. The wind blows a cool breeze, also wanting to participate.
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The last grains of the sands of time, are emptying out. Having blown for centuries, faithfully measuring the passing moments. Like a slide-show, each grain carries a different event, but when looked at in totality, each event paints the masterpiece of the Geulah.

The past, now to be viewed from the lens of eternity, was only a passing blip. A job well done, now completed.
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The time, is Eruv Shabbos Kodesh. The place, is the gateway to infinity, the Beis HaMikdosh. The soul, is unlimited, Moshiach.

Time has come full circle, returning to its source. Now there is no beginning, or end.

Time, has run out of time.......

The World is a Stage

© 2005

The final curtain has been drawn, the play is over.
The actors now take their bows after a stunning performance.

Mrs. Green comes out, and takes a bow for her performance, as an overwhelmed mother.
She performed beautifully, appearing to do her best.

Next comes Mr. Goldstein, for his performance as, a husband trying to make living.
He played the part so well, that it seemed as though it was really happening.
He really looked upset and worried, as though he would be bankrupt any second.

Next comes Sarah. Sarah played the part of a teenager, who wished the world would come to an end. She agonized, and actually looked as though, she suffered a lot.

Then came Mr. Levy the millionaire. He acted as though he ran the world, as though he felt so important.

There is Mr. Jones the president, who acted as though he really ruled the world, as though he was invincible.
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Each actor was needed to play their part, in order to make the play a success.
Their timing had to be perfect, the lines recited flawlessly, the emotion real.
It was difficult, but it was all worth it, for now the awards are being given out, and everyone is a star.
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All the actors now come out, to take one final bow together.
The play is over, the curtain has fallen,
now real life is about to begin....

The Sounds of Silence

© 2005

Behind the wall, the sounds of silence are building with every passing second. Unknown to the people on the other side, who are only centimeters away. The tumult of the world grows louder and louder, taking on astronomical proportions, but soon to be silenced by the truth.

Slowly, the wall begins to subtlety crack. Strands of light immediately shoot through. But the world doesn’t notice, too mesmerized by the trance they are in.

Television, radio, internet, newspapers, magazines, billboards, telemarketing, video games, dishes, VCRs, DVDS, ... the relentless assault on humanity continues.

Attention spans shrunk to milliseconds. Don’t think, just do it! They are told: BUY, BUY, BUY, CONSUME, CONSUME, CONSUME!!!!!

Ahh the bliss of eating, drinking, owning, possessing, controlling, accumulating, ruling........ The most manipulated generation that history has ever known. But they can’t get enough.
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The egos last gasps of glory, is on the run; driven to win it all, before its over. But the sounds of silence are increasing daily, first quietly, then slowly louder and louder.
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Behind the hedonistic drive, is the soul’s desire to uncover the G-dly spark.

But only skimming the surface, people starve for more. They are unable to break the hard outer shell. Unaware, that only the energy of Chassidus, has the power to reach deep within, to the infinite energy, waiting centuries to be released.

A hidden plan, picking up speed daily. Buy more, because the entire world has to be elevated. Every color, taste, object, emotion, philosophy, every corner of the creation.

Like the tiny atom that has untold energies, physicality awaits to be cracked, and the infinite light released, to shine eternally.
The noise of the centuries is building to a climax, exponentially rising to deafening levels. They beg for more.
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!!!The sudden silence is shocking, the plug has been pulled. The silence is deafening. The flash, the shine, are a thing of the past, now having no meaning.

What was once compelling, has vanished. As though a mirage, that never was... A new energy, a new light, a new silence.....

Now looking up and seeing....... Transcending sound. Not more of the same, rather a totally different dimension.

The sounds of silence, now give way, to the sight of knowledge. Pulsating, vibrating G-dliness, racing through the universe, energizing a dead world.

The shell is broken, the pent up energy released, erupting like an exploding star, shooting far into the vast universe.
The most beautiful sound of all, Peace at last.
Thank G-d.

The Shabbos Queen

© 2005

Time stands aside, as the day blends into night.
As the sun slowly fades, the heavens open, and the Queen approaches.
Her silky white gown floats in the evening mist.
The light of a thousand suns radiates from her face.
Clouds surround her becoming a royal throne.
Peace and tranquility follow in her wake.

There is complete silence,
as the creation stops for a moment,
absorbing her awesome presence.

Angels stand at attention,
stars frozen in place,
and birds chirp in rapture.
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Her presence transforms our home into a holy temple.
Air, becomes energized.
Shabbos-candles supernal light, elevate every corner.
Wine, a window to a hidden universe.
Shabbos food, whiffs of delicacies that beg to be eaten.
Souls able to expand to distant worlds.
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We beg her to stay,
but now she must return.
We sadly say good-by,
but the joy she has brought will stay forever...

Pain

© 2005

It eats you up, one piece at a time. It gnaws away continually, cutting deeper and deeper. You try to ignore it, but failing miserably. It never leaves you, constantly demanding your full attention. You frantically search for a way to get rid of it, but nothing helps.

Certain things distract you for short periods of time, only to have it return. Life seems not worth living.

What kind of cruel game is this? I never asked for it, and I want out. If I had it to do over again, I wouldn’t. But there is no escape.
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Suddenly, a light flashes from a hidden place. Its blinding rays bring warmth and joy.
Now looking back and realizing, that the pain was only a means, a tool, to reach this hidden treasure, buried deep in my soul. The pain was like a knife, that was cutting through thick layers of my being, helping me to reach distant vistas that I had no idea existed.

Now having reached the top of the mountain, I slowly absorb the majesty all around me. Who would of known, that before when I was in pain, the desperation that I had, would eventually bring me here.

The physical pain was, because of the limitation of the physical. But now I have transcended the limitations and constrictions, of the jail that I was in. And have become truly free.
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Now able to fly like a bird. Able to see beauty, where before I saw only the cold darkness of my dungeon, and glad to be out. Glad, that the pain was able to bring me here.

I shudder to think what I went through. Not wanting to ever have to go through that again.
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The gentle summer breeze blows against my face, embracing me in its gusts. I feel only excitement and energy.

The entire creation looks at me and is envious of my joy. I have left its limits and climbed its great heights, and surmounted its obstacles. Now I see a different world, as I survey all that is around me.

I’m having joy in just living, being with my G-d. Not wanting anything else. Eternity itself runs through my veins, pulsating with its vibrancy. Not subject to the tides of time, or to the entropy of life. Now I have combined body and soul, and become G-dly.
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The well that was buried deep within me, has been tapped, and now it gives life-giving waters, to be enjoyed. I have gone where very few have.

I look back in regret, but look forward in anticipation.

The sands of time are not running out, rather they are increasing, pulsating, and becoming stronger with each passing second...

United Forever

© 2005

The souls turn has finally come. Waiting for centuries to fulfill its galactic mission. Only now, has the time arrived, conception has taken place.

The excited soul says good-bye to all its friends as it leaves its G-dly abode. Going on a journey, to it knows not where. Leaving to a strange dimension, that makes other souls shutter. But realizing, that this is the fruition of is creation. Hidden potential, that has to be actualized.

As it makes it way down into the physical world, it wonders with trepidation, what tests await it. After having heard many tales, of woe.
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As it reaches the known barrier, it automatically separates into two. Each part of the soul, says good-bye to the other. Sadly looking back at each other one last time, but with the realization, that one day they will be together again. When they will find each other, and become one again in marriage.

Each soul is then united with its chosen body. Becoming a female and a male. As the each child grows up, and starts to do Mitzvahs, its soul-mate is also affected, and is elevated by every act.

When he puts on Teffilan, she, on a hidden level, feels it to her depth. And when she lights Shabbos candles, his soul shines like the sun.

But, yet, unconsciously they both realize, that they are missing something. And as time goes on, the drive becomes more powerful. Until they can’t take it any longer, and strike out in search for one another. They leave no stone unturned, in their frantic search for their lost mate.
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Finally they meet, and the soul realizes, that this is the one. But in a cruel game of free-choice, they consciously don’t realize it.

But after speaking to one another, they have no doubts, that this is the one. Reunited again, but now reaching levels, that are far beyond, what they previously could know.

The creation is struck in awe, as they unite under the Chupah, finally fusing into one, forever....

Mysterious Music

© 2005

As I walk I down the street, everything seems dull, lifeless. People look like the living dead. Just going though the motions, barely putting one foot in front of the other. Counting the seconds, until the day will be over. Plastic people, fake smiles, fake laughter, fake lives.

The air is listless, the colors dull, the food tasteless. A mechanical world, and each of us a robot.
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But wait, listen, did you hear that? Maybe I’m just imagining it, maybe I’m delirious.

Again, I hear it. Yes, it real; but it’s so distant, barely audible. Why, there’s music in the air! But where is it coming from?

Everything is starting to become alive. The colors are brighter. The smell of the air sharper. The plants are greener, taller, and stronger. There is energy in the air! Even the street is vibrating with an inner beat.

The volume is increasing, penetrating everywhere. Everything is starting to move in synch with the music. The skyscrapers are starting to swing together.
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First one, then ten, then fifty, until the entire city is vibrating. The people on the street are also now affected. Everyone is putting their hands on each others shoulders, and swaying back and forth, while singing at the top of their lungs.

All sizes, shapes, colors, are now united by one beat. People can’t stop smiling. The joy is increasing with every moment, until it’s barely tolerable. I feel like I’m gong to explode!

The beat keeps getting stronger, as it comes closer and closer. The whole city starts dancing! Even the clouds above, are flying back and forth in rhythm with the music. It really feels like one world, united.
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People start to uncontrollably laugh. First a few, then more, then everyone. They start to laugh so hard, that they can’t even stand up. They become drunk with laughter, and start to fall down, and roll on the ground! What is going on? Its insane.
All traffic has stopped. Everyone is getting out of their cars and looking around, trying to figure out what is going on. When suddenly, they are grabbed, and pulled into a giant circle.
Which begins to spin faster and faster, at a dizzying pace.

People are dancing so hard, that they fall down, pulling everyone else on top of them, each tumbling over the other. As they roll on the ground they can’t get up, because they are laughing so hard.

Legs kicking, arms flying, people doing somersaults in the middle of the street! The energy is boundless. Old men, ninety years old, are running through the streets like children.

The patients in the hospitals are racing out of the doors, throwing away their crutches and IV’s, junking their wheelchairs, running to join everyone else. The doctors and nurses are right behind. Having no patients to take care of, they also are running to join the party.
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The prisons and jails, are unlocking their doors, and releasing their prisoners. The prisoners are somersaulting out, giddy with surprise. Freedom at last, they explode in ecstasy, racing as fast as they can, just to experience freedom, never looking back.

Finally reaching the crowds, they hug and kiss everyone, with tears of joy running down their face. A minute before, they were ostracized from society, killers and thieves, but now totally accepted and deeply loved.
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As the music pulsates and the buildings sway, the trees clap their arms together. The birds fly in a big circle, dancing furiously. As the tempo increases and the energy soars, we feel as though we are going to expire, we can’t take anymore.

But there is no stopping. More, more and more.... Like a balloon that has reached its limits and can’t expand anymore, but it keeps going, pushing beyond its farthest limits.

Stretching far beyond its wildest imagination, with no end in sight. Infinite joy, infinite ecstasy; infinite energy, flowing into previously finite bodies.
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As we soar to unknown heights, we begin to see things previously hidden. Then we start to see, the inner essence of everything. As time passes, it becomes clearer and clearer. It is as though we had X-ray vision. Before it would be like looking at the sun, but now we can look and not even blink.

The intensity is like a billion suns. Each sun is the size of a billion suns, that would burn for a billion years, and release all that energy in a split second, through one tiny opening! We begin to see the source of happiness, the source of life. The point, where life and eternity, meet.

The leap to another dimension, that leaves the previous one light years behind. Reaching the place where time and space meet, and lurching beyond. Reaching a place where no one could previously reach. An Ex-Nihlo jump, where we leave physicality, and enter G-d.
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The music is the music of Levites, who are preparing to play in the holy Beis HaMikdosh. As Moshiach leads them, he picks up the tempo with every stanza. Until it is as though their fingers have left their hands, and become one with the music.

Each note vibrates across the universe, exploding in every corner. Leaving no place untouched, by its life giving energy.
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The long awaited moment has arrived, the redemption is here!

Thank G-d

Looking Good?

© 2005

Good?
Bodies, bodies,
looking good, like you should.
I can’t wait, don’t hesitate.
The more you get,
the more you want.

Meat market,
why not flaunt it.
Show a little,
show a lot.
Tan, dark brown,
I can’t frown.

Make-up here, make-up there,
just look at my hair.
Long and brown, short and blond.

Cute, cute thing.
Oh, I want to sing.
Tight, tight, out of sight.
Lots of fun, if I win.

Addiction is the affliction.
Like drug that you ingest.
They call it love, but where’s the love?

Body, only an assortment of parts?
Oh, by the way what’s your name?
It doesn’t really matter it’s all the same.

It like wiping your hand on a towel,
then throw it away, with no feeling.
The eyes see, the heart wants.
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But G-d wants more.
The body is only a loan,
and soon it will go home.
If abused, it will be refused.
It is meant to be a vehicle for elevation,
and not for temptation.

The thrill of G-dliness shoots through my veins.
The love of Torah is pure energy.
Angels just look in awe.

Feed the soul and not just the body,
then we can have a real party!

The Blowing Leaf

© 2005

As the warm summer wind blows, though the outstretched arms of the magnificent tree, a leaf is blown off, somersaulting in a menagerie of directions.

The leaf is seemingly aimlessly, being blown too and fro. But the Baal Shem Tov revealed, that even an insignificant act, is directed by G-d, to fulfill His plan.
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As the simple leaf floats gently through the air, it slowly descends onto the lush green grass. It slowly lands near a small worm. Its dinner has been delivered to it, and is placed just within its reach. It doesn’t even realize, that this is no coincidence, but rather the hand of G-d.

As it wriggles forward to partake of its meal, it is also fulfilling its part in G-d’s creation. The leaf, by being eaten by the worm, achieves a higher elevation, by being transformed into a higher form of life.

Being higher, because the worm has a higher soul, which has more G-dly energy. The air has also been elevated, by being a vehicle, of G-d’s will, thereby also becoming a part of Him.
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As the satiated little worm finishes its feast, it slowly crawls away. It now has been enlivened, to once again continue to elevate, its portion of Creation. Soon, it again searches for its next leaf, to eat.

The wind blows through the trees, that sway back and forth, waving their uplifted arms in praise of G-d. All around, more leaves are being blown, but only one has been chosen for this worm.
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As the gentle wind again drops off its cargo, it joyfully once again continues on its next mission.

The trees, the wind, and the worm, all unite to serve their Creator. The food-chain, that is linked in more ways than one.....

Joy

© 2005

I don’t know, if my kids will remember the Torah that we learned, or the spankings they got, or the trips we took; but one thing they will remember, is the dancing we did!

Tati comes home, runs to the table, grabs the tape-player, and ---energy! The entire room starts to dance!!!!
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With fast-paced music pulsing out through the air, filling every corner with vibrancy, I race to grab the nearest child. Lifted up and spun around in an instant, each one gets their turn, being twirled around in dizzying circles, in sync with the music.

Then, flying through the air on my shoulders, their feet never touching the floor. Transported to a different world, far beyond the mundane.

Running the length of the living room, and going once around the kitchen table. With a series of twists, turns, and spins, the home becomes alive, with pure, unadulterated joy; penetrating to the very depths of the soul. Bodies are transformed into, art in motion. This is the greatest sound, a child’s uncontrollable laughter.
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The four-year old dances with effortless motions, on one foot. Spinning around, with arms flying out, he entrances us with his natural expertise.

Simchas Torah pales in comparison. Ferris-wheels, roller-coasters and rides seem boring afterwards.

This is what they will never forget. The pure happiness, of unbridled joy!!!!

Imagine

© 2005

Imagine a world with 50% less ego. The positive effect on the world would be extraordinary.

Everyone would naturally want to share wealth, food, knowledge, resources, etc. A world, where differences will fall away, and you will see only the good in the other person. The way life was meant to be.

Let’s start now to live an utopian reality, and try to make it a reality now.
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Imagine getting just as much pleasure in helping someone else, as you get from helping yourself. Give, rather than take.

Care. You are special person inside, why not bring it out so that everyone can benefit.

There are two types of people- givers and takers. A giver, even his taking, is giving. A taker, even his giving, is taking.

When a giver takes something from you, he feels obligated to give you something in return. When a taker gives you something, he is only doing it, in order to get something.

Imagine a world, where everyone says hello to each other, where everyone, is sincerely happy to see you. Where people in their spare time, discuss how to help someone else.

Imagine a world, in which the person who gives away the most money, is respected; and not the person, who makes the most money.

Imagine children, that are always happy, and never cry. Who always help their parents.

No one is competing with each other, to out do the other person, rather, they are competing to do the most for each other.

The person who is considered wealthy, is the one who has a lots of children, who learns a lot of Torah, and has good Middos, and gives lots of Tzedeka.

TV shows, are only about teaching about Hashem and his Torah; and everyone always says: Baruch Hashem!

Airplane tickets to Las Vegas, cost one-million dollars; whereas tickets to the Kossel, are free.

Husbands and wives, never argue.

Businessmen, that try to make their products last as long as possible, and sell them as cheap as possible.

The government of all countries, are Rabbonin, that are consulted on everything that the country does.

The people who make millions of dollars, are people who know a lot of Torah.
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Imagine children that say:
Hello mommy, can I help you sweep the floor? Hello Tatie, can I shine your shoes for you?

Thank you mommy, for making me supper. Thank you Tatie, for teaching me Torah.

Shimon my dear brother, can I help you with your homework? Rachel my loving sister, let me carry that upstairs?

Hello Mr. Gold, let me bring that into the house. Hello Mrs. Fine, can I go shopping for you?

Rebbe Schwartz, would you please teach us more Torah?

I don't want to watch TV mom, I'm doing my homework.

Mom, I found a wallet, and I'm going to call the owner.

I have to go to bed early, so I can get up on time.

Tatie, Rachel and I are going to set the table.

Mom, I'll baby-sit Leah, so you can go to the class.

I'm going to clean my room, so mom won't have too.

Mom's asleep, I'll wait till she wakes up, for my supper.

Tatie, I'm calling to let you know, I'll be home late. Reuvan is coming over, and we're going to finish the Gemorah.

I give Tzedekah every day, and I give extra before Shabbos.

I can't wait till I'm old enough to put on Tefillin.

Tatie, can I leave the table to wash my hands?

Mom, this is my new friend Yossie, he just moved in next door.

I'm going to repair all the Siddurs in the Synagogue.

Shimon is sick, I'm going to stay home and take care of him.

I’m going to speak very softly, in order to not upset mom.

Mr. grocer, you gave me to much change, take this back.

I'm going to save my allowance to buy Seforim. I want to learn as much Torah as I can.

Just imagine!

Here Today, Gone Tomorrow

© 2005

You, me, here today, gone tomorrow,
I can’t take the sorrow.
Work hard, reach the top,
I don’t know when to stop.
Roulette, Juliet,
is it over yet?
You win, I lose, which way should I chose?

Cash in the chips, its a game,
its insane, and I can’t take the pain.
From John Doe to Aristotle,
everybody wants the dollar.

Jet set, get set,
I‘m flying high, in the sky.
Fancy clothes, fancy cars,
I’m going to all the bars.
First London, then France,
Hey, do you want to dance?
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Life’s a roller coaster, up, down,
it only makes me frown.

Get the car, get the money,
oh it’s so funny.

You say yes, I say no,
which way should I go.

Its been way too long,
I wish it was only a song.

Tricycle, motorcycle, spin the wheels,
I can’t tell you how it feels.

Playing on the beach in the sun.
oh what fun?
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Take it easy, don’t get upset,
it isn’t over yet.
Fly high like a kite,
until your out of sight.

Hey look your winning,
and the wheel of life, keeps spinning.
From darkness comes light,
that is out of sight.

An explosion of joy, you feel like your flying,
and now you can’t stop smiling.
Torah and Mitzvos are the cure.
Try it yourself, just to be sure.

Journey to the Soul

© 2005

As I sit with my guitar in hand, my mind wanders to other shores. As I begin to strum the taunt strings, I become less and less aware, of my fingers and body. As the music starts to float in the air, I am lost in a hypnotic trance.

My soul has been awakened, and now transcends its prison, gleefully dancing with every beat. I cease to exist, as my consciousness has left my being, long ago.
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The energy is also transported, everywhere around me, and others are also affected. They also feel the beat, and we are united by the steady rhythm. We are surprised by the power of the experience. Its force overwhelms us. We all smile, as we sway back and forth. We now have entered, another world.
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Exploring its vastness, we discover new places, that few have gone. Like the past explores, who set off on a journey, to they knew not where, but that was the excitement. The excitement of the unknown, its mystery never to be solved, but constantly beckoning forth.

Sharing an experience, that binds us as one. A feeling of brotherhood, of sharing the same thing, multiplies the energy.
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We now cease to exist, as separate beings, within our own worlds. We are now in synch, bound by the soul of the music, that ripples through the air, and enters into our being; going to its very depths. Touching us in our core, and awaking a part of us, that we never new existed. Hibernating for all these years.

We place our arms on each others shoulders, and sway back and forth, in rhythm with the music. Feeling brotherly love, like never before. The power of the music, the power of the soul, able to transcend boundaries.
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Similarly, when we pray, we sing a song to ourselves, and we start to ignite the gentle spark, that lies deep within us. Slowly but surely, it steadily grows.

As we go through the different levels of prayer, we steadily rise to higher and higher spiritual worlds. Leaving the mundane far behind. Not looking back, we don’t realize how far we have traveled.

We eventually stand face to face with our Creator. Naked, we are totally non-existent; just a consciousness, that is barely aware of it own existence.

As the flame of the soul, has steadily grown, it has totally consumed the coarse wood that forms the body, purifying it, leaving it invisible. Allowing its boundaries to be transcended. And it allows us, to fly like an angel, to dimensions never known before.
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We have for a moment, become one with our Creator, able to become infinite and G-dly. The rush is hard to contain, as it swells throughout my entire being, ready to explode into ball of fire. But yet, somehow, contained and guided, to be able to reach to even farther universes, that are light years away.
Here, nature does not exist.

Unbounded, nature is only a distant memory, that is slowly fading into the past, being slowly forgotten, with eternity taking its place.

Unable to speak, since I have no mouth; unable to move, as I have no body; almost unable to think, as I have no thoughts....

I am one with... , but there is no I, there is only .............

Graduation Day

© 2005

The deceivingly serene landscape, belies the truth. Calm as far as the eye can see. Seemingly lasting forever. But a purpose left unfulfilled. A rendezvous with destiny, about to occur. The Divine Will, about to manifest itself.

The world has duped itself into thinking, that this is all there is. Like an immature child that plays in a sandbox, and cries when it taken out to go to school; the world has been playing with the toys of creation, but now it must grow up.

Infinite potential has been wasted, ignored, hidden by a reluctant world. But now there is no choice, G-d will have His way. Wanting to give His beloved children, the ultimate gift, Himself.
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But in order for the child to be able to appreciate, and absorb, such a wondrous gift, it must prepare itself. It must grow up,

Like a child that doesn’t appreciate character, so too the world doesn’t appreciate the infinite. It must open its eyes, and stop looking down at the physical, and look up to the eternal.

Yet destiny is continually guiding it. At times gently, at times abruptly. Lessons to be learned the easy way, or the hard way. The patient Father waits for the right moment, depending on the child’s progress.
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We have gone through the growing pains. The different stages of history, have been stages of growth: Infancy, childhood, teenager, adulthood. The ten commandments, the Mishnah, the Gomorra, Chassidus.

But now graduation-day is upon us, Moshiach is here!

A Flower Child

© 2005

As I look at the little flower, I can’t take my eyes off it. Its stunning beauty, overwhelms my senses. My eyes indulge, in its every detail. It fills me with joy and happiness.

As it gently sways in the wind, I find a peace within me. The love that flows through my veins, is awesome. I am in a different dimension, totally removed from this world.
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I stare at her deeply, not able to take my eyes off her. A face that angels envy.

She realizes that I’m looking at her, and tells me to stop. But the pain of looking away, is too great, so I continue to indulge.

With every move that she makes, I feel a surge of emotion. She is so cute. I make her laugh, just to hear her giggle, and it fills me with a deep happiness.
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I walk her to school every day, even though she could go by herself, but I wouldn’t miss it for the world. It’s so much fun. I walk extra slow, savoring every moment.

I call her Booga, and she asks me what it means. I tell her, that it means a little girl, about six years old, with brown hair.... Realizing, that I’m talking about her, she interrupts me, and tells me to stop.
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I hold her hand the whole way, even though she gets embarrassed when her friends see her. She tries to wriggle away, but I wouldn’t let go for a million dollars! I hold tight, until she realizes that its useless.
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I know that it won’t last forever, for one day she will grow up and leave, and I will be left with memories. Thankful, that I merited such a luscious gift; but sad, that it will no longer be totally mine. I push the thoughts out of mind, and focus on the now, and make the most of it.
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Once she went overseas, on a trip with her mother. As she was boarding the plane I realized, that I would be missing a month of her life. I would not see her change, and I would not share in those few weeks of growth. I became sad, but realized, that she would return, and I would just have to make due in the mean time.
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I call home from work, and ask to speak to her. Flattered to get a phone call like an adult, she runs to the phone.

She tells me about her day, happy that it matters to me. I listen intently, relishing each word. When she finishes, she asks me when I am coming home. I tell her later, and she answers “no, now.”

I say good-by. She responds, good-bye. I again say good-bye. And she again answers, good-bye. I again say good-bye. And she laughs good-bye, at my silly game. Finally, I reluctantly hang up the phone.
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When I come home from work, the first thing I do, is run over to her. She knows what to expect, and runs away. But eventually I grab her, and give her the biggest hug you can imagine.

She laughs uncontrollably, and turns her face, so that I can’t give her the thousands of kisses, that I always give her. But she knows that it is useless, as I finally peck at her cheek, until she gleefully squirms away.
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I walk over to the tape-player, and turn it on high volume. With the music pulsing through the air, I am enlivened. I run over to her, and we start to dance. I turn her, and twirl her, until she is dizzy. Then I lift her up on my shoulders, and run with her to the end of the living-room; turn around, and run to the other end; with her giggling the whole way. What fun!
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At night, I tell her a bedtime story, about a little girl who lives in a big house, and she is a very good girl, and she does a lot of Mitzvahs. Entranced she asks me the girl’s name. Not wanting her to know it’s about her, I tell her I don’t know, and continue the story, as she listens in deep concentration. She loves it.
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As I get up to leave the room, so that she can sleep, she quietly says, “Good night Tatie”. I turn to look at her one more time and answer, “Good night, Booga!” She laughs, and I float on a cloud reaching the height of joy.
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Hugging her, dancing with her, telling her funny things, buying her things, sharing life together, my daughter, my Queen.

Thank G-d......

A flower, like a thousand others, needing the right nutrients of a Chassidic life, in order to blossom.

The Eye of the Storm

© 2005

Like any other summer day, the gentle breeze blows against my face, seemingly like a thousand times before. Yet this one precipitates, something unforeseen.

The wind picks up in force, blowing objects effortlessly about. Suddenly the wind stops. We foolishly think that it is over, only to start again. For there has never been a wind like this.

Strangely, the winds intensity increases. Only now, do people begin to take notice. Heavier objects are being tossed about. We run to try to save what we can.

Then there is an eerie quite. Peace seems to have returned. We still think it is just a passing storm, but the contractions have only begun.....
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The wise sage has told us, what needs to be done. But we are too distracted to listen.

The winds continue in stages, of quite and then frenzy. The quite times lull us into complacency, until the next storm arrives. We think that we can just sit and ride it out, but that is not the plan. We are discovering, that nature, is not natural.
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There are those, who understand the winds of change, and know how to control them. They follow the wise sage’s directions. They sit in the eye of the storm, and know peace. The wind is sent not to destroy, but rather to blow away the covers and reveal the truth. To break the rules that have governed for ages, that now give way to another dimension.

The world is stretched to its limits, and beyond. Infinite light, entering finite darkness.

Creator and creation, are becoming one. Like Jonah on the shaking ship, the world is realizing, that the storm is because of the Jews.

A rendezvous with destiny, that is in our hands. Free-choice, a blessing to be used, or potential never to be actualized. Which will it be......
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The wind returns, with a wildness, that surprises even the most veteran. Becoming a twisting tornado, racing across the universe. Nations are in turmoil. Panicking. Foolishly thinking, that the end is near.

But the wise ones are calm, knowing what to expect, what the outcome will be. Waiting in anxious anticipation.

The baby is about to be born......

Dawn

© 2005

The blazing light, shakes me from my deep slumber. My hand swiftly rises to cover my eyes, as the pain from the intense light shoots through my body. Dazed, I wonder if I am awake or still asleep and dreaming.

Then I realize that it is not a dream. I force myself to sit up, as I frantically shake my mind to full awareness. I realize that something wondrous must have occurred, and I ponder what it could be.

As I get used to the light, I slowly uncover my face, and my eyes explore the landscape. What I see shakes me to my very being! What happened? My mind races to find an answer.

As I peer out the window in amazemen,t I sense that the world will never be the same. Forever changed. I am frozen in wonderment, as nothing looks the same.
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In my garden, I see fruits that yesterday were grapes, but today look like gigantic balloons. They are a deep, lush purple. Each grape is so full of sweet juice, that it looks as though it will explode at any moment.

The tomatoes I just planted last week, are now not only fully grown and ripe, but the size of watermelons. I have never seen a more beautiful color of red, in my life.

The branch, although also larger, is barely able to hold the weight of its wondrous burden.

The squirrel, instead of constantly running around as before, is now just sitting on the ground next to the cat, each enjoying the others company. The cat starts to lick the bird, as though cleaning it. The bird then flies up to the top of the tree, and brings back a piece of delicious orange for the cat to eat. Each one sharing and helping the other. Its beautiful.
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I can’t believe my eyes. What’s happened? A question with no answer, leaves me in a quandary, that I can’t shake. My mind searches to find an answe,r only to realize, that it has none. I can’t bear the feeling.
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As I look around I realize, that everything is brighter, richer, has more life, more energy, more peace. The sky looks cleaner, fresher. The light breaks through the heavens, as though the air has become crystal clear; allowing the light to penetrate directly, without any obstruction. Yesterdays cold winter, is today’s warm summer day.
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A happiness surges through me. Why am I so happy, what happened? Everything looks happy! The birds are chirping, and flying aimlessly about, as they dance in the sky in a drunken delirium. Prancing about, to and fro. I uncontrollably jump out of bed, and begin to dance myself. Jumping up and down, and then somersaulting with endless energy. I feel exalted!

It seems that the creation, has now been directly plugged into its life force, G-d. I hurriedly get dressed, and say morning Brachas. As I say each word, it seems to reverberate across the universe, carrying an infinite energy. I then scamper outside.
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The air smells different, it feels different. What happened? I drunkenly roll in the lush grass, just to feel closer to G-d’s creation. It is so much fun!

I jump up, and run over to the apple tree, whose fruit is the size of a basketball. I grab an apple with both arms, and take the biggest bite you could ever imagine! Its taste explodes in my mouth, and rolls through my body! I have never tasted anything like that, in my whole life. The shock stuns me for a moment.

This can’t be real, I must still be dreaming, but what a dream!
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The bruise I had yesterday when I fell, is gone, there is no pain!

Everything is perfect. The trees are gently swaying, the animals are playing together, everything looks as though it is smiling. Everything is one, totally enjoying each another. One family, sharing life together. I feel as though, I am gently floating on a cloud.
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I wonder if I am the only one, who feels this way, and sees all this?

All of the sudden, I see my worst enemy running towards me in the distance. I have never seen anybody run so fast. I instinctively also start to run towards him. As we crash in an embrace that takes away our breath, he can barely say: “Shimon I love you!” I breathlessly answer: “Levy I love you!”

We fall to the ground, endlessly rolling together. Just enjoying the sharing of each other. The entire universe, seems to be watching and laughing, sharing our joy.
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The cat and the bird, are sitting up, and also observing our frolicking. Taking our cue, they also start to roll in the grass.

Has the world gone crazy, this is not normal. We uncontrollably laugh and giggle, like two children. We can’t stop laughing, as we dizzily roll back and forth.
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Suddenly, we both stop and look at each other in the eye, and simultaneously realize what has happened.

At the top of our lungs we both scream out, “Moshiach!!!!!!”

The Cold Planet (Story)

© 2005

What's a matter Colonel Isaacson, where's my power?
I don't know captain, we've got the most powerful warp engines in the universe on full power, but we're still being drawn into the cold planet.

What's pulling us colonel?
I don't know captain, I've never seen anything like it!

Sound the general alarm, Sargent. Battle stations!
Yes, captain.

Issue arms to every man women and child on the ship, there's no telling what we're up against.
Yes, sir.
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Shimon, what did your analysis turn up?
Very little captain. This planet has been a mystery for hundreds of years. None of our instruments has been able to penetrate into the planet. It seems, that everything gets absorbed and deactivated. That's why it's called the cold planet, because it sucks the life out of everything that comes near it.
I see.

There's no planet like it in the universe. It's pitch black. No color, no movement, it just hangs there. It doesn't give off a sound.

Very strange, very strange. Well, I guess well soon find out for ourselves.

Captain, it seems that the more energy we use trying to escape the planets's pull, the faster we get pulled in, it's unbelievable.

In that case Shimon turn off all engines.
But captain...
No buts, we have nothing to lose; you see that we're helpless, and that nothing we've tried so far, has worked.
Power is off, captain.
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Captain, it worked! We've stopped descending!

Reuvan, spread the word, we're stopping all power.
But captain the ship can't function without power.
Do we have a choice?

You're right captain, I'll spread the word.

Shimon, what's our situation?
It seems we're hanging in space captain. We've come almost to a stop.
What do you mean almost?

Well, we're still being pulled in, but at a very slow rate.
How long do we have before we're in?
That's hard to say captain, but anywhere between eight to nine days.
At least that gives us some time, to try and figure something out.

But captain, with no power we can't use the computers.
Shimon, the computers can't help us anyway. If we're going to get out of this, we'll have to do it on our own.
____________
All right, it's time for Minchah. Let's pray hard. Remember, Eliyahu was answered at Minchah time.

Reuvan, spread the word, we're lighting the Channuka candles on time tonight.

But captain, maybe it's better if only one person lights for everyone else, a burning candle also produces energy. Just think about all the energy that will be re­leased, if all the people on this ship light candles.
After all, this is a case of Pekuach Nefesh, the less energy we use, the better.

And what do you think Channuka candles represent. The Jews belief in Hashem, gave them the strength to fight, even though it seemed there was no way to win.
Everyone is lighting there own Menorah, as usual!
Yes captain.
____________.
Rabbi Goldstein, being that you are our spiritual leader, will you please light your Menorah first?
Yes captain, I'd be glad to. Baruch Ato...

Thank you Rabbi, that little candle looks beautiful burning there.
___________
Captain! Captain!
Shimon! Why aren't you in the control room?
But captain, we've stopped descending. As a matter of fact, we're being pushed away from the planet.
What caused it?
I don't know captain, it happened suddenly.
___________
Everyone listen, everyone should light their candles together right now, hurry!

Captain, we're being repelled from the planet at an unbelievably rate!
Shimon, turn on all engines.
Away from the planet, captain?
No Shimon straight for it!
But captain.
Straight for it Shimon.
Yes captain.

Captain, it's pushing us away so strongly, we can't get closer to it. We're just able to stabilize our position here, about two light years from it's surface.
That's fine Shimon, just hold us right here.

But captain, what if we start getting sucked back into it again, we'll never be able to get out!
Let me worry about that Shimon. Announce, that everyone should relax until tomorrow night.
Yes captain.
____________
Shimon, announce that everyone should meet in the main hall to light the Channuka candles.
Yes captain.

Rabbi, will you do the honors again?
Yes captain.
Baruch Ato...
OK, everyone light.
____________
Captain, captain!
What is it Shimon?
We're moving closer to the planet, at a tremendous rate of speed. But there's one difference this time.
What is it Shimon?

This time we're flying in, and not being sucked in. There's still a force pushing us out, but it is only half of its original strength.
Just as I thought Shimon.
___________
Captain, we've stopped our descent. It looks like were in limbo again, about one light year from the surface.
OK Shimon, keep me posted.

OK everyone, after candle lighting, you can all return to your quarters until tomorrow night.
____________
Shimon, announce for everyone to meet again in the main hall. It's the last night of Channuka, this is it.

What's going to happen tonight captain.
I don't know exactly Shimon, but we're going to find out soon... ____________
OK Rabbi, let's try it one last time.
Baruch Ato...
OK, everyone together now, Baruch Ato..
______________
Captain, the force, its disappeared. And the planet...
What Shimon, what?
The black has disappeared, now there's ... there's light coming from it!
That's amazing!
___________
Shimon, scan the planet and analyze it's makeup.
Yes, captain.
Captain, it has all the necessary nutrients for life, an extremely rich planet, but it's totally barren.
Just as I thought. Reuvan prepare a seeding packet, we're going to make this planet bloom.
Yes captain.

Captain.
Yes Shimon.
I don't understand. How could a planet as rich as this one, not have any sign of life on it? And what caused it, to become black?

Shimon, this planet has been sitting out here at the end of the universe, for centuries. There has never been a Mitzvah done, within light years of here.

The Other‑Side was able to take over this planet, and suck all the life out of it. Wherever you find coldness and lack of life, you find the Other‑Side. When we came and lit our Channuka candles, it broke its hold, and the light was released.

I only wish that the light of the Menorah would fill every corner of universe, then the other side would be totally destroyed, and Moshiach would be here!
Amen!!!

Blooming

© 2005

The stark ground lies silent, lifeless.
Suddenly, it mysteriously seems to quiver.
Yes, it’s true, as it again imperceptibly moves,
but then, returns to its former sleepy state.
____________
After a few more heroic attempts, the tiny sprig pushes its way out into the blinding light.
Unnoticed, it stands proudly on the rolling landscape.
It playfully stretches here and there, trying out its new found being.
___________
As the gentle rain falls upon its face, it drinks in the life-giving waters.
Slowly it begins to grow, rising to the heavens to praise Hashem’s glory.

Then, quietly, a tiny bud begins to appear, waiting for the right moment to reveal its secret.
It waits patiently, until finally the special moment has arrived.
Hesitantly, it pushes its tiny head out.
Slowly, the glorious flower begins to emerge.

Finally, the light twinkles, as it is reflected on its tender petals.
As it blossoms, its wondrous colors shine in all their splendor.
____________
What was once still earth, is now an orchestra of light and smell.
Life, pulsating in all directions.
Simple life, yet not so simple.

One illustrious part of G-d’s creation.
Multiply by infinity, and you have G-d’s world, revealing His glory...

Avraham

© 2005

... Avraham why did you break all the idols in my store, they're worth a lot of money?
But father, there is only one G-d in the world.
________
Avraham, stop that, you're always saying wild things.
Father, belief in G-d is not a wild thing, it's the truth.
_________
Avraham, why can't you be normal like everyone else, and worship idols?
But father...
___________
Avraham, you're always embarrassing us with your radical ideas; can't you just pretend to believe in idols, and not cause any trouble? At least, don't talk to anyone else about your ideas.
_______
But father, Hashem wants the world to know about Him.
So let someone else do it, it doesn't have to be you!
__________
But father, I have to do what's right.
What's right, is to worship idols, just look at everyone else.
___________
Father, just because everyone does it, doesn't make it right.
Look, Avraham, we make a nice living, we hold a respectable place in the community, why don't you just enjoy it?
__________
Father, there is much more to life, than all that.
My son, you are talking about something that you can't see, and that won't make you rich or famous, or anything else, stop all this nonsense.
_________
But father, Hashem is the One, who gave us all we have; and if need be, G-d forbid, He can take it all away.
If we do His will, he rewards us infinitely, but if we don't...
___________
...Father, I want to put up signs on the roads, and tell people about Hashem.
Avraham, now you've gone too far, everyone is going to think you're crazy! And even if you do interest some people, you'll be forgotten about in a few years, nobody cares. Why don't you just give up now?
___________
Father, Hashem is in charge; you'll see, what I'm going to do will eventually change the whole world.
Son, remember, you're only one person, and the world is very large.

Yes father, but Hashem is one, yet He runs the whole world!