Creative Judaism

2009-07-05T13:58:00.000-07:00

2009-07-05T13:54:00.000-07:00

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INTRODUCTION

Moshiach Values
The Spider's Web (The Yetzer Hora)
We Are Right
The Time Has Come

The End of Time
The World is a Stage
The Sounds of Silence
The Shabbos Queen

Pain
United Forever
Mysterious Music
Looking Good?

The Blowing Leaf
Joy
Imagine
Here Today, Gone Tomorrow

Journey to the Soul
Graduation Day
A Flower Child
The Eye of the Storm

Dawn
The Cold Planet (Story)
Blooming
Avraham

Letter
A New Age (Moshiach)
Soul Food (Kosher)
No Strings Attached (Tzitzis)

A Friend (Mezuzah)
The Promise (The Beis HaMikdosh)
First
The Other Side of the Coin (G-d's existence)

Freedom (Pesach)
The Covenant (Rosh Hashana)
Butterfly (Mikva)
Way of Life, (Judaism)

Living (Sefer Torah)
A Man (Bar Mitzvah)
The Final Touch (Marriage)
Truth

The Soul Connection
Private
Sunrise
Mission

The Royal Prisoner (Israel)
Yarmulka
Beard
Memories

Chicken Soup
Conversation
A Gentle Mist
Games

Children?
The Black Hole
It's Showing
Yitizi

Sensitive Soul
Extreme
Angels
Consume Consume

The Circle
Precious Daughters
Friends
Lukshon Kugel

Strands (Mitzvahs)
Give and Take
I Like
Life

Awakening
If
The Package
Boxes

Gefilte Fish
Coming Home (Shabbos)
A Precious Gift (New born)
A Spring Thaw

True Friends
The Secret Weapon
Nothing is Something
Friend?

Mirage (Values)
Soar Like an Eagle?
Maturity
A Living Soul (My mother)

Thank G-d
Innocence (Babies)
Birds
The Flickering Flame

Waves
Journey

INTRODUCTION

2009-07-05T13:47:00.000-07:00

©2005

Have you ever wondered where is the heart and soul of Judaism? Do you feel, that it has no life, no meaning, no emotion? Did you ever want an explanation of Judaism, in a simple, fun way?

All these are reasons, this blog was made.

This blog attempts, to give insights and meaning, into the beauty of Judaism, in a very concise, and interesting manner.
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If one can't see inside something, how does one know when it's full? When it begins to overflow.

When one enjoys something a lot, one eventually reaches a point, when one wants to share one's feelings with others.

These articles attempt, to express the feelings of someone, who was touched in a place, never touched before.
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Each one of us has an ember within us, that at times seems to have gone completely out; then suddenly, a gentle wind blows on it, making it flare up into a blazing fire.

May these articles, be that gentle wind.

Moshiach Values

2009-06-09T13:48:00.000-07:00

© 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)

2009-06-08T14:48:00.000-07:00

© 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

2009-06-08T14:25:00.001-07:00

© 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

2009-06-08T14:23:00.000-07:00

© 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

2009-06-08T14:22:00.000-07:00

© 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

2009-06-08T13:44:00.000-07:00

© 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

2009-06-08T13:43:00.000-07:00

© 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

2009-06-08T13:42:00.000-07:00

© 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

2009-06-08T13:39:00.000-07:00

© 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.
____________
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.
_________
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.
_______________
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.
_________
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

2009-06-08T13:38:00.000-07:00

© 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.
_____________
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.
____________
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

2009-06-08T13:37:00.000-07:00

© 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.
____________
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.
___________
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.
_______________
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.
_______________
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.
_____________
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.
___________
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.
_____________
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.
____________
The long awaited moment has arrived, the redemption is here!

Thank G-d

Looking Good?

2009-06-08T13:36:00.000-07:00

© 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.
_________
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

2009-06-08T13:35:00.000-07:00

© 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.
_________
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.
__________
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.
__________
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

2009-06-08T13:34:00.000-07:00

© 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!!!!
_______________
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.
___________
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

2009-06-08T13:33:00.000-07:00

© 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.
__________
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.
__________
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

2009-06-08T13:32:00.000-07:00

© 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?
___________
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?
_________
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

2009-06-08T13:31:00.000-07:00

© 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.
___________
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.
___________
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.
____________
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.
_________
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.
___________
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

2009-06-08T13:30:00.002-07:00

© 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.
____________
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.
___________
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

2009-06-08T13:30:00.001-07:00

© 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.
___________
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.
_____________
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.
___________
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.
___________
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.
__________
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.
__________
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.
__________
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.
____________
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!
______________
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.
___________
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.
___________
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

2009-06-08T13:28:00.000-07:00

© 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.....
_________
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.
___________
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......
________
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

2009-06-08T13:27:00.000-07:00

© 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.
__________
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.
____________
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.
___________
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.
_____________
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.
_____________
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!
______________
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.
____________
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.
_____________
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.
__________
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)

2009-06-08T13:26:00.000-07:00

© 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.
______________
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.
_____________
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

2009-06-08T13:24:00.000-07:00

© 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

2009-06-08T13:23:00.001-07:00

© 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!

Letter

2009-06-08T13:19:00.003-07:00

© 2005

Dear Hashem,
I'm writing You this letter, to make amends.

I'm sorry I offended You, all this time,
but I didn't realize, what I was doing was a crime.

One day I found out, who You are,
and realized, how I was far.

Now I can only apologize,
for all the wrong I did, in Your eyes.
____________
I'm trying to do better now,
I'm going to make it up to You, somehow.

I'm very thankful, that You forgive,
now I know, what it means to live.

I'm only human, as You well know,
but I am trying, to grow.
_________
I would like to ask You a favor, if I may,
could You please bring Moshiach, today?

We've been waiting so long,
we can't always help it, if we do wrong.

Your children have passed the test,
we've tried, to do our best.

There has been so much good, done until now,
can't You bring Moshiach, somehow?
__________
You made this world, in order to bring out our best,
we've tried, to do our part, now could You do the rest?

Your children are crying out, to You,
"We want Moshiach", each and every Jew.

You know, that all Jews are inwardly good,
do as You tell us, "judge them with merit," if You could.
____________
So if You can find it in Your "heart",
please bring him now, so that we can make a fresh start!

A New Age (Moshiach)

2009-06-08T13:18:00.001-07:00

© 2005

What will happen, when Moshiach comes,
will the world become one?

Will people still want, to be corporate presidents,
or will they learn Torah, in their residence?

I wonder what will be, when there is no ego,
will people be a little nicer, wherever I go?

They'll be no competing, to be the best,
just trying to do as much as we can, with no test.

Not trying to impress anyone,
just doing what's right for everyone.
__________
Will people still want big cars and fancy houses,
or live comfortably, without looking at prices?

What about nations, that will have nothing to fight about?
What will they do, with all their money and clout?

Will charity be the main goal,
and to be a good person, be the main role?

What about TV‑ will there be fictional stories,
or will we learn about G‑d, and His Glory?

What about fashion, and styles that always change,
will we still want, to be strange?

What will we learn in school all day,
about how to make a living and play?

Will food taste the same,
or will it all seem to be plain?
____________
I don't know, if I like Moshiach or not,
the world is no fun, with nothing to want.

But maybe there'll be, something more fun to do,
like learning how, to be a good Jew.

Everyone will feel, like one big family,
helping each other, to be the best they can be.

We will relate to the soul of each person,
and know that they are good, oh, what a lesson.

We will be continually happy,
not just waiting, for someday to go to Miami.

There will be infinite things to accomplish,
continually rising higher, in levels of holiness.

Maybe we could start today,
and prepare the world, for Moshiach's way!

Soul Food (Kosher)

2009-06-08T13:17:00.001-07:00

© 2005

I like Kosher food, it's so good,
I eat it everyday, as I should.

My mother says, it makes me healthy,
and I will grow up, spiritually wealthy.

She says, if it's good for my soul, it's good for my body,
so I eat it all the time, I'm not naughty.

Just as cholesterol, gets cloged my veins,
non‑kosher food, makes my soul have pains.

I only eat kosher meat, that's killed mercifully,
because I don't like things, done cruelly.

Everyone knows, you are what you eat,
so if you eat coarse animals, you become meat.
________
It has to have both split hooves, and chew its cud,
these are the signs Hashem made, so we know it's good.

Only fish, that have both fins and scales,
are the ones that I eat, but not whales.
____________
I don't eat meat and milk together,
because they don't mix, in any kind of weather.

And whenever I eat meat,
I wait six hours, before a milk treat.

But when I eat milk first,
I only wait one hour before a meat course.

At times, meat represents cruelty, and milk kindness,
so when mixed together, they affect my coarseness.

But when they are kept separate,
they don't affect my temperament.
___________
But the real reason we eat Kosher food,
is just because Hashem said that it's good.

We can only understand a little bit,
because after all, Hashem is beyond human wit.

So I eat Kosher every day,
because it's the Jewish way!

No Strings Attached (Tzitzis)

2009-06-08T13:16:00.001-07:00

© 2005

I have Tzitzis, that I always wear,
and even when I sleep, I have a pair.

It surrounds my whole body,
and wherever I go, it goes with me.

It has four corners, that fit very tight,
because Hashem hugs me, with all His might.
_____________
The strings are tied, in a special way,
that represent all the Mitzvahs, that we do each day.

And when I see them hanging down,
I remember that Hashem is all around.

My mom says, there are strings attached,
because there is a catch,

when I put them on every day,
there is a blessing I have to say.
___________
My Tzitzis are made out of wool,
because that's the best material.

They are part of my uniform,
they show that a Jew, I was born.

My father also has a big one,
that he wears when he prays.

He says it makes him feel,
like an angel when he sways.
_____________
When I say Shema every day,
I kiss my Tzitzis, in a special way.

These little strings, are so dear to me,
I'm so proud, I want my mom to see....

A Friend (Mezuzah)

2009-06-08T13:15:00.002-07:00

© 2005

I have a little Mezuzah, and I kiss it every day,
every time I walk by it, it has something to say.

It's in the box, waiting for me to come by,
so that as I pass, I can say hi!

There it hangs, on the doorpost protecting me,
and I always wonder, if it can see.

We put one, on all the doorways of our home,
because Hashem is all around, wherever we might roam.

When my father put it up, he said a special blessing,
he knew it by heart, there was no guessing.

It has the holy Shema on it, and another prayer,
and when I kiss it, I acknowledge Hashem is everywhere.
___________
Written so carefully, by the holy scribe,
only he knows ,how to make it alive.

Each letter and each crown,
formed so skillfully, it's the best one in town.

It goes on the right side of the doorpost,
that's the side of kindness, which we need most.

And when I go to sleep,
my little Mezuzah, makes sure I don't weep.

I know, that just like I need a checkup now and then,
once in awhile, my Mezuzah needs a mend.

I learned in school today,
that before we came out of Egypt of old,
we had to put a sign on our doors,
to show Hashem, that we would do His Mitzvahs as told.

And when He saw the sign on our doorway,
He passed over our houses and the bad angel turned away.
______________
When I grow up, and have my own home,
I want the best Mezuzahs, that I can own!

The Promise (The Beis HaMikdosh)

2009-06-08T13:15:00.001-07:00

© 2005

There were two holy Temples in past history,
that were destroyed, oh, such misery.
They were in the holiest city,
which is Jerusalem, such a pity.

Miracles were seen, in the Temple constantly,
there the laws of nature were broken, continually.

Through the service that was done there,
the whole world was elevated, with little fanfare.

When an animal was used on the Temple mount,
the entire animal kingdom, was elevated as a result.
When the incense offerings were brought,
the vegetable kingdom's ascent, was sought.

Even the seventy nations of the time,
brought offerings during Succoth, so sublime.
_________
Teshuvah had to preface every offering,
otherwise it would accomplish nothing.

Now Teshuvah can be done every moment,
with Yom Kippur helping us, to reach the summit.

Now we elevate in a different way,
through making blessings on food, each day.
Man's table with salt, is the altar,
making the food he eats, a holy offer.
_________
The Temple was man's door to Hashem,
whenever he wanted, he could go to Him.
Now prayer has replaced the Temple service,
and we can always approach Hashem, without a fuss.

But the third Temple is the one, we are waiting for,
it will be permanent, and Hashem's glory, it will restore.
Then the world will reach a level, never before seen,
everything will be fresh and clean.

Moshiach will build the third Temple,
he will complete Hashem's promise, so simple.

There is a potential Moshiach, in every generation,
just waiting to be revealed, through man's transformation.

First

2009-06-08T13:13:00.000-07:00

© 2005

The first book in the Torah, is Breshis,
it talks about how Hashem, created the world.

The first letter in the Torah is "Bet",
which stands for blessing.

The word Torah itself, stands for "Horah",
which means, "to teach a lesson" in life.

The first Tractate in the Talmud, is Brachot,
which talks about blessings.

The first topic talked about in Brachot
is the Shema, the affirmation of one G‑d.

The first thing a child learns to say,
is the Shema.

The first thing we say when we wake up,
is "Modei Ani", a recognition of G‑d.

The first thing we do in the morning is pray,
then we go to work.

The first thing we do before we eat,
is make a blessing.

The first fruits of a field,
are given to Hashem.

Abraham, the first Jew,
was the first to recognize one G‑d.

The first commandment is,
"I am the Lord your G‑d."

The word Jew, comes from the Hebrew word "Yehudi",
which means, "one who acknowledges G‑d."

The word Hebrew itself, comes from "Ivri",
which means, "to stand apart" from idol worship.
____________
Prayer unites us with Hashem, for the day.
Shabbath reveals G‑d, in the week.

Every month, there is Rosh Chodesh,
Yom Kippur for the year, when we start fresh.

The inanimate is elevated, when used for a Mitzvah,
the plant and animal kingdoms when eaten with blessings.

In space and time, in every aspect of our lives,
we reveal the G‑dly, for which we strive.

The Other Side of the Coin (G-d's existence)

2009-06-08T13:12:00.003-07:00

© 2005

How can one believe in G‑d?
He can't be seen, He's just for simple people?

"But how can one not believe in G‑d?
His greatness is, that He can't be seen."

Look at this table, can G‑d be seen?
"Yet Hashem's greatness is, that He can limit Himself to a table, yet still be infinite."

It seems Hashem created the world, then left it.
"But this world can't exist, without continually being recreated."
Does Hashem concern Himself with what's going on here?
"There is nothing outside of Hashem, He's always "aware" of everything."

Is G‑d is limited?
"If G‑d is limited, He is a human G‑d, which is an idol."

Why is there bad in the world?
"But, why is there good in the world?"

Can Hashem create a rock, He can't pick up?
"Is the rock outside of Hashem, for Him to pick up?"

Why did Hashem create the world?
"He wanted to give man the chance, to elevate himself."

Does G‑d have abilities.
"Yes, but not in a finite way, in potential."

How big is G‑d?
"Hashem has no big or small, up or down. No parts, no boundaries."

Why do people need G‑d?
"Their essence is G‑d; just as a child's essence is connected to his parents."

It seems, not everyone needs G‑d.
"Not everyone, feels their essence."

"To see beyond the creation takes, intellect, perception, and sensitivity."

Freedom (Pesach)

2009-06-08T13:11:00.000-07:00

© 2005

For eight days I can't eat pizza, what a bore,
no bread, no macaroni, oh, I'm so sore.

I don't even like Matzah, it's so flat,
it has no taste, it's just like a mat.

I like the four cups of wine, they're so good,
but when I'm not thirsty, I'd like to stop if I could.

But you know, Matzah represents humility,
and that is what really, makes us free.

Bread has yeast, that makes it blown up,
this shows on the bad ego, that makes us corrupt.
__________
So when we eat Matzah on Passover,
we acquire the ability, to be humble the year over.

Then when we eat bread the rest of the year,
we will have positive pride in being a Jew, and not fear.

We eat and drink on Passover, not for health or taste,
but because Hashem said, after we left Egypt with haste.

We drink four cups of wine, to the end,
because there are four levels in creation, that we transcend.

Before leaving Egypt, and getting the Torah so beautiful,
we first had to realize, Hashem is all powerful.

We merited to be taken out,
because of our faith, we had no doubt.

Hashem made ten plagues, so the world would know,
that He's in control of nature, it's not just a show.
___________
Each year on the Seder night, when we tell the story again,
we realize that Hashem is the One, who helps us to win.

The world is not something, separate from Him,
for He could stop creating it, on a whim.

But He wants the world, to reach great heights,
so man has free-will, to rise and do what's right.

This is what it means, to be free,
to not be bound by physicality.

By working every day, in a Torah way,
we combine body and soul, in the ultimate way.

Then we can truly say, "Next year
in Jerusalem", because Moshiach will be here!

The Covenant (Rosh Hashana)

2009-06-08T13:10:00.000-07:00

© 2005

The blazing sun is cowered,
the entire universe trembles in anticipation.

Every particle in the creation,
wonders what the outcome will be.

The waiting seems endless,
what will be the decree?
_______________
The silence is suddenly broken,
by the piercing blast of the shofar.

The King has been crowned once again,
a sigh of relief, rolls through the heavens.

The purpose of the universe has been verified,
justifying its existence for another year.

The day of judgment has passed,
the tension is broken.

The covenant has been reaffirmed.
____________
G‑d gives life, and in turn,
man elevates himself and the creation.

An eternal partnership.

Butterfly (Mikva)

2009-06-08T13:09:00.000-07:00

© 2005

Water, seemingly such a simple thing,
what possible holy benefit, can it bring?

It has no color or taste,
sometimes, we just let it go to waste.

But hidden under its simplicity,
is a force to unite, with G‑dly purity.

An apple has to be connected with its source, to grow,
just as we have to reconnect, with our G‑dly flow.

The waters of a Mikvah reunite one, with their source,
so that the soul that comes down, is pure and not coarse.

But you have to be clean, before you go in,
for there can be no obstruction, of the water's holy din.
_____________
Water gives sustenance to mankind all year,
and from out of its waters, comes life so dear.

The miracle of life, is a G‑d given gift,
and the Mikvah makes one, a vessel for it.
_____________
You enter another world, the fountain of youth,
you feel new and fresh, and that's the truth.

Just as a seed, has to disappear,
in order, for a tree to grow here,

the physical body is totally immersed,
and disappears for a moment, which is a first.

It becomes one, with the pure water,
transcending its boundaries, of matter.

So, too, a small cocoon sheds its skin,
to become a glorious butterfly,

only then can it spread its wings,
and begin to soar and fly.

Its true beauty is then revealed,
after having been concealed.

For Torah, you see,
unveils the best, in you and me.

Way of Life, (Judaism)

2009-06-08T13:08:00.000-07:00

© 2005

Abraham, the first Jew,
brought monotheism into view.

Yet where is G‑d in Judaism, you may ask?
To find where G‑d isn't in Judaism, that's the real task.

Judaism is not a religion, but a life.
In all the things that you do, you have to be a Jew.
____________
If there is a part of man's life, that can't become G‑dly,
then G‑d is limited, which is an oddity.

There is a part of the world, that G‑d Himself created,
and yet it can't be elevated?

Intellect, emotion, the body, the physical world,
all were created to be elevated.

Intellect‑ through the learning of Torah.
Emotion‑ through love and fear of G‑d.
The body‑ through action in the doing of Mitzvahs.
The physical world‑ by using everything for a G‑dly purpose.

Food- is elevated through blessings.
Clothes- have Tzitzis.
A house- has a Mezuzah.
Relationships- through the laws of Tzniut.
Business- through laws of commerce.
‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑
Also Each holiday,
stretches us in a new way.

At times we use our intellectual capacity,
studying all night before Shavous with tenacity.

At times we go above intellect and arouse emotions,
when we say only Tehillim on Rosh Hashana, with no commotion.

On Yom Kippur day,
the only thing we do is pray.

At other times we use our body's strength,
to build a Succah, and shake the Lulav's entire length.

Our worldly possessions, are put under the Succah's ceiling,
table and chairs, and our entire being.

We have the ability to be sincere,
in elevating the Creation, every day of the year.

People and the world, in perfect harmony,
bringing out the best, in a melodious symphony.

Living (Sefer Torah)

2009-06-08T13:07:00.001-07:00

© 2005

My name is Sefer Torah, and I'm so proud,
because three days a week, I'm read out loud.

My children hold me so lovingly,
and when I go by, they kiss me so sweetly.

When I'm held up for all to see,
everyone rises, and looks at me.

All the letters that are written on me,
are really one long name of Hashem, so Holy.
__________
So every time someone reads from me,
their hidden soul jumps with glee.

When someone needs a blessing, and is in need,
I'm the one they ask, to help with speed.
_____________
Simchas Torah is so much fun,
everyone dances with me, father and son.

They become my feet for a day,
up and down together we sway.

Everyone is so happy and gay,
that they have a holy Torah to display.
____________
But you know what makes me feel great all day,
it's when little children listen, to what I have to say.

For I am a gift from Hashem to His nation,
I tell them how to be holy, and good in any situation.

My whole being, my essence is only to give,
so please study me ,so that I can live.

A Man (Bar Mitzvah)

2009-06-08T13:05:00.002-07:00

© 2005

Today I become a man,
I've tried to do, the best I can.

Today I become obligated,
to do the Mitzvahs, that are consecrated.

I now have the spiritual power,
to do a Mitzvah, and have it tower.
__________
When I put on Tefillin now,
it has the power, to affect the world somehow.

Through the Bris, the soul becomes more revealed,
and at thirteen, it becomes even less concealed.

That's why to have a Bar‑Mitzvah, you don't go to college,
since it doesn't depend on intelligence or knowledge.
___________
Everyone is so happy and joyous,
because I have the privilege of doing Mitzvahs.

They are also so very proud and full of elation,
that I am link in the Jewish nation.

With an aliya to the Torah I am honored,
following in the footsteps of my forefathers.

I also explain, from the Torah, a holy concept,
that shows I am bound to its eternal precepts.
_________
Thirteen is such a tender age,
to start to become a future sage.

My father and mother are both beaming,
I've followed their example and kept learning.

For thirteen years I've grown and matured,
to now be able to say these words.

I'm sure Moses is looking at me,
and smiling broadly with glee.
_________
As I begin to read the Torah so clear,
my mother lets out a streaming tear.

Just yesterday it seems,
I was just a baby in jeans.

Now I stand in front of the nation,
leading the way for the future generation.

Today I become a man,
now able to complete G‑d's plan.

The Final Touch (Marriage)

2009-06-08T13:05:00.001-07:00

© 2005

Two separate people standing together,
soon to be united in an essential way.

The canopy of stars is like a glass,
that focuses the infinite G‑dly light.

The Chupah that is above their heads,
brings the light even closer.

The holy blessings on the wine,
bring the G‑dly flow, into the boundaries of the world.
____________
Then the ring, the final touch.
The final seal that unites them together.

Two parts of one soul that became lost,
have finally found one another again.

They now belong to no one else,
but each other.

The King and Queen, in their royal elegance,
radiate a glow, that illuminates the darkness.

They have transversed the universe, with a heavenly beam,
that has the force, to make the finite infinite.

Now, together they stand, one being,
the distance between them is nonexistent.
_____________
The world halts for an instant,
its natural course interrupted by the holiness.

The universe is but a frame
that revolves around them.

Only decoration to add
to the beauty of the moment.

They have reached a new level,
they have been transformed, forever.

Truth

2009-06-08T13:04:00.000-07:00

© 2005

Truth, such an elusive word,
everyone seems to think it's absurd.
If there is an Absolute Truth,
why doesn't everyone follow suit?
It should be so obvious,
why is it hidden and oblivious?

Well, Hashem had an eternal plan,
He made an animal soul, to put in man.
This is what makes a person rationalize,
what he sees with his eyes.
He has something that he desires,
then he builds his "truth" around the fires.

Just as a child thinks life is a toy,
adults can live a life, with no true joy.
Man can justify his every act,
but the standard of truth, is how we measure the fact.

Truth can only be had,
when one is objective, and it's not a fad.
The truth has to come first,
then it guides the emotional burst.
____________
At first the animal soul can't understand,
the elevated being, of man.
But like a child, that can mature,
it eventually begins, to be pure.

Truth, we have to rise up to its wit,
we have to work hard, to understand it.

Just as the laws of physics are always around,
so, too, the laws of spiritual physics, are to be found.
There is a whole world on another plane,
it's just as real, as this one that's insane.
Certain things, are eternal and meaningful,
while others don't matter, and are superficial.

Truth is something, that doesn't change with time,
it's the blueprint of the world, and is sublime.

The Soul Connection

2009-06-08T13:03:00.001-07:00

© 2005

Six days a week and the Shabbos,
have to be kept separate to be Kodesh.

Cohanim, Leviim, and Israelites,
are all different as day and night.

Meat and milk are great,
but together trouble they make.

Man and wife are very precious,
yet certain times they can't touch.

If we are trying to make unity,
what is to be gained by all this frivolity.
__________
But as a filter holds back the bad,
and lets through the good,
so too a Mitzvah, holds back the corporal,
and lets the G‑dliness shine through, as it should.

Fire and water must be kept separate,
they cannot come together‑ but wait!
They can be "united" with a pot.
The warmth of the fire, then can make the water hot.
The pot becomes a filter,
that helps transcend the kilter.
_________
Things are normally mutually exclusive,
but the spiritual level is inclusive.
This is achieved through a Mitzvah's light,
which transcends a thing's boundary and unites.

So people become much closer and eternal,
by going beyond the external.
They make the soul connection,
which is the ultimate perfection.
Like sunglasses, that let the sun shine through,
I am able to see the real you.

In Torah, there is no true separation or lane,
only stepping stones, that reach another plane.
The "do not's" in Torah, are not restrictive,
rather they free us, from the negative.

May we all become windows, and without a doubt,
we'll allow the light of Hashem, to shine in, and out!

Private

2009-06-08T12:58:00.000-07:00

© 2005

Everything in the spiritual realm, is reflected in the physical realm.

Just as on Shabbath, there is a public and a private domain,
so too, on a personal level.

A person is a microcosm, a small world.
___________
The private domain, are one's soul and private parts.
The public domain, one's face and hands, and the outside world. Clothes, are the dividing line.

In the holy Temple, we also found the "parochet" or curtain. Within laid the Holy of Holies; outside, the mundane.
___________
By keeping the separation, we keep the infinity.
but uncovering, makes one finite.

The same holds true of relationships.
If private, they are special and personal,
if not, they are demeaning.

By respecting one's privacy, we respect the person.
_____________
In Judaism, we count people indirectly by counting straws.
This is because, a person has an infinite soul and infinite value.

If counted directly, in effect they become like any physical object. The humanity of a person, is then lost.

The word private, only applies in human terms. In non‑human terms, there is only something concealed or hidden. In spiritual terms, it means personal, and special. It infers a sense of respect and awe.

Animals have nothing private.
______________
The things we hear, see, and eat, can pollute our private domain.

When we do Mitzvoth, we reveal the private domain, in the public domain.

In the future world, we will live only in the private domain of the Shabbath. This being the times of Moshiach.

Sunrise

2009-06-05T10:00:00.000-07:00

© 2005

As the blazing sun rises, a thousand beams of blinding light instantly burst forth from the horizon. They ignite the darkness in a kaleidoscope of brilliance. The entire sky explodes in a ball of energized life. A wondrous spectacle, with the entire heavens as its stage.

An awesome mountain. The majesty of its peak, towers over the landscape, humbling the creation which lies far below. There it stands, totally serene in its soaring heights. Enveloped by softly blowing wisps of playful clouds.

A breathtaking waterfall. The powerful water sparkles in the sunlight as it surges. It races along, gaining speed with each moment. Suddenly, it leaps over the edge in fearless flight, and careens down the endless embankment. Finally hitting the bottom, it explodes with a thunderous boom, and mightily soars up in massive pillars.

The vast ocean. Its grandeur spans into a seemingly endless expanse, as though nothing else exists. Its perpetual waves rhythmically flow back to shore, with a hypnotic serenity. Their sloshing sound, soothing and calming.

A lush forest full of soaring trees, that seem to reach to the sky. There they stand proud and regal, rulers of the heavens. They are imposing in their lofty heights. Their powerful arms stretch continually out, as though trying to grasp the entire expanse around them. The brilliant green of pulsating life, is everywhere. The transcendence of nature, a creation of G‑d. Man is humbled, and stands in awe.
_____________
The intangible soul, after doing a Mitzvah. An explosion of light suddenly bursts through the stark darkness, engulfing its entire being. Losing its existence in a flash of a moment, its boundaries melt away, as though never having been. Not even aware, if it is aware. The joy it feels, wells through it like a wave.

Afterwards, leaving it in an enraptured state. It bathes in warmth, and sinks into a permeating peacefulness, that leaves it floating weightlessly.

But now it slowly comes to life again. The silhouette of its being begins to takes shape, back to its previous existence. The image of before, slowly fades away, longing for its return.
The infinity of the soul, transcends the highest peak, and the greatest sunrise. A greatness, that is beyond measure.
_____________
All creations, are for man to use, to reach the true heights that he can achieve. but as great as they are, their true greatness is yet to be revealed, by man.

Mission

2009-06-05T09:59:00.000-07:00

© 2005

Hello mother, hello father,
I hope that I am, not too much bother.

I'm only one month old now,
but I'm sure you wish, I were older somehow.
___________
But do you want to know something,
I wish I were back there, where I could sing.

It was so nice,
no troubles and no worries,

I just laid around,
and read stories.

But I was sent here, with a mission,
that I have, to bring to fruition.

I have to bring Moshiach now,
so please tell me how.
__________
I want to pray everyday,
and be careful about what I say.

So let's get started with the lessons,
I want to know how to say blessings.

Back there I learned all of Torah,
but somehow I forgot, because of the euphoria.

Can you please help me,
to jog my memory?
__________
I liked Mishnah and Gemorah,
and I liked the deeper Torah.

So teach me everything you can,
so that I can grow up, to be a great man.

I want to be the one,
who brings Moshiach, I want to run.

So tell me mother, and father too,
what is it that I have to do?

I know you had me, so that you could kiss me,
but please help me, to unlock the mystery.

That's why I cry so loud,
because I want to make you proud.

I like lollipops and ice cream,
but I want to learn Torah so much, I could scream!

The Royal Prisoner (Israel)

2009-06-05T09:57:00.000-07:00

© 2005

A land so holy,
the palace of the King.

But it's not just a physical place,
rather, the meeting point, of creation and Creator.

Her heart is Jerusalem, her holiest city,
the Temple Mount, her holiest point.

Here lies the door, to the heavens,
the time warp, to another dimension.

The center of the universe,
that all things revolve around.
___________
She lies in wait, for the great day,
when she will reach, her true glory.

When all her children, will come home,
then her true beauty, will be revealed.
____________
Now she cries for her family,
waiting impatiently, for their return.

Wanting to hug them with loving arms,
and tender kisses.

She is seen only as a place,
while her spirit is ignored,

a beacon of G‑dliness,
shining through the darkness.
_________
She is very sensitive,
she can't take unholiness.

A prisoner of time,
longing for freedom,

waiting for her gallant warrior to release her,
from the chains of exile.

Wanting to bring peace and happiness to the world,
she silently waits.....

Yarmulka

2009-06-05T09:56:00.000-07:00

© 2005

What difference,does a piece of cloth make,
why, it falls off with every step I take?
It doesn't keep me warm, or make me look cool,
it just seems, to make me feel like a fool.

But when it's a Yarmulka, it has a different reason,
It's not worn to make me be pleasing.
Yarmulka, (Yirah‑Malka), means fear of the king,
it makes me aware, that Hashem is above things.

Intellect is only a creation,
to be used to effect Hashem's elevation.
Intellect only reaches so far, and then ends,
after all ,it's only physical, and doesn't transcend.

In order for man to connect,
he has to eclipse his intellect.
When he bows, and lowers his head in prayer,
he acknowledges that it's not the top layer.

Using intellect, to go beyond its limits,
is the way, we reveal its true wits.
_________
The Yarmulka, is a filter on my head,
that holds back the finite, and lets the G‑dly spread.
It's also part of my uniform,
that shows that G‑d is the norm.

Of course, a hat is a little better as you know,
it covers my whole head and body, from head to toe.
____________
Hashem didn't create us wearing one,
because of free-choice, he left us undone.

I wear my Yarmulka, even when I sleep sound,
because Hashem, is still around.

Some people wear them, to cover their bald spot,
but I wear mine, to show where I stop.

Beard

2009-06-05T09:55:00.000-07:00

© 2005

Oh my precious beard,
you make me look a bit weird.

Some people say, I look ten years older.
"Can't you at least trim it, and look more sober?"

It's amazing what a difference, a little hair makes,
if I was a rock star, they wouldn't shake.
_______
But I grow it because, of a different reason,
it's not because, it's in this season.

It's the spiritual connection, between intellect and emotion,
but I never thought, it would make such a commotion.

Each thin, precious hair,
is a channel, for the G‑dly light's flare.

And in the Torah it says,
not to cut your beard, with a razor's edge.

Cutting with a non‑razor, is permitted that's plain,
but a beard is much cheaper, and easier to maintain.
____________
I wonder if Moses's mother in Egypt,
asked him to trim his beard, or she'd flip.

My poor beard, all the abuse that it takes,
nobody knows, that it's actually fake.

I bought it for a dollar ninety‑nine,
doesn't it look great all the time!

My own beard is short and scraggly,
so I wear one on top, that makes me look manly.

Hey, if people can buy toupees,
then I can buy a beard, that's so long that it sways.

Memories

2009-06-05T09:53:00.000-07:00

© 2005

I remember my grandfather, he was from Europe.
He used to pray and study.

My grandmother, used to always say something called Tehillim.
They spoke Yiddish, but I never learned it.

My father was born in America.
He never studies or prays.

My mother was born in America.
She doesn't know what Tehillim is.

I was told I was Jewish.
I think it means we like chicken soup.
___________
But you know, there is something I just can't seem to forget.
I'll never forget the look on my grandfather's face, whenever he would study something called Torah.

It would shine like a thousand suns.
He would always learn in a sing‑song, rocking back and forth.
__________
I'm sorry my children, never met my grandparents.

My children don't want anyone to know, we're Jewish.
They say that Judaism is something in the past, "We have to be modern."

I wonder how many Jews, fought and died throughout history so that my children, could be here today and say those words.

Only a memory, to be forgotten...

Chicken Soup

2009-06-05T09:52:00.001-07:00

© 2005

They say, that it's hard to be a Jew,
but even though, that may be true,

nevertheless, they forget to say,
how beautiful it is, each and every day.

Why, how can people live life and not droop,
without Zadies and Bubbies, Yiddish,
and oh yes, chicken soup!
____________
Everyone knows, that when someone is sick,
one hot bowl of chicken soup, always does the trick,

and whenever I hear an "Oy Vey",
I know that trouble, is on the way.
________________
But you know, what really makes me proud,
So proud I'm a Jew, I want to yell it out loud?

It's the beautiful Torah, that is our precious possession,
that makes me weep, with overwhelming emotion.

The secrets of the universe, the wisdom of the ages,
all in one book, that is explained by the sages.
_____________
Chicken soup is fine once a week,
but the Torah is our life, and it's so sweet.

Just like a father and son,
a Jew and the Torah, are truly one.

So, being a Jew may be hard, like they say,
but life without the Torah, "Oy Vey!"

Conversation

2009-06-05T09:50:00.000-07:00

© 2005

The year 1000

David, we were born in the wrong century.
What do you mean, Aaron?

What do I mean? Why in a thousand years they'll have fancy cars, Presidents, TV, paper money, billionaires and...

I get the idea, David. You mean, we have to wait a thousand years to be happy.

Yeah, that's right Aaron. We're just not very lucky.

Yeah, you're right David. How can anyone be happy, without any of those things?
___________
But Aaron, why are our kids happy?

Oh, they don't know any better, Aaron. Once they get older, and we tell them what they don't have, then they'll be depressed just like us.

You're right, David. They don't know enough, to be depressed yet.
_____________
Well Aaron, what should we complain about next?

I don't know, David, what do you think?

That's easy, Aaron, what about...

A Gentle Mist

2009-06-05T09:41:00.002-07:00

© 2005

There is a mist floating in from the darkness. The darkness, is the darkness of foolishness; the mist, is the mist of eternity.
____________
The pervasive darkness is overpowering‑ so thick, I can hardly breathe; at times, I could seemingly touch it. Nevertheless, I keep looking, not even knowing, what I'm looking for.

The emptiness seems to be never ending. Each minute, brings a new coldness, totally beyond the one before.
___________
The penetrating pressure is rapidly increasing. My very flesh is being devoured! It's being torn from its mooring! My whole body is screaming! My blood, its is simmering! It's reaching close to boiling‑ wait, it's lurching beyond!

My entire being has left me. Only my thoughts now remain, barely aware of their own existence...
Now, even my thinking is thickening!

Suddenly! I feel... I'm... I'm delirious, I'm losing my senses!
Am I in another world, or maybe I'm still clinging to a thread of existence.
___________
No! No!!... What is it? Where did it come from? My thoughts are racing, exploding, each one frantically pushes the other! Is it? I agonizingly wait....

At last.... my senses are slowly returning. A mist... yes... a warm, elusive mist. The mere thought, balloons through me!
___________
Now, a feeling; I've never experienced before. It's growing, it's overwhelming me.

Finally, mercifully, it embraces my entire being, cuddling me to the very depths of its bosom....
___________
The darkness has long been forgotten, as though it never had been. Now I realize, it was the beckoning forth, from under the blanket of flesh, of my crying, gentle spirit.

Tragically, only now, because of the loving mist, does the spirit finally live; whereas before, I chose only to nurture the body, while horrendously starving the .....
_____________
Suddenly!‑‑‑Shockingly!‑‑‑I'M AWAKE!!

It was only a dream, another chance...?
___________
Does our precious soul have to wait, until it's too late, before we acknowledge its existence?

Games

2009-06-05T09:41:00.001-07:00

© 2005

As I look out at the empty faces of humanity,
I wonder when the game will end.
People who act like clowns,
but yet, always wearing a frown.

Why is it, there is so much beauty.
If only they would look, then they would see.

Ah, but that's the catch,
selling their souls, for money or honor.
____________
But the diversions are many.
The escapes are powerful, multiplying daily.
Eternal children, never to grow.
Stuck in an eternal time warp.

It's not their fault, they do not know,
of distance places, and hidden worlds....

Children?

2009-06-05T09:40:00.001-07:00

© 2005

Children, please stop fighting,
it's not nice, to always be arguing.

Children, please don't yell,
be polite, don't let your heads swell.

Children, it's not nice to hate,
you have to, give and take.

Children, don't lie or steal,
to be human, is to be real.

Children, we have to be grown up,
we have to be mature, and not corrupt.

Children, don't act childish,
over things that are meaningless.

Children, don't fight over that ball,
it's nothing real at all.
___________
Children want simple things,
since they don't know, what virtuous means.

But when adults, act like children,
then the world becomes, a burden.

The Black Hole

2009-06-05T09:38:00.000-07:00

© 2005

Loneliness,
Its excruciating pain,
reaches the depths of the soul.

Slowly eating its way through, layer by layer.
Extinguishing the tenuous flame of life,
penetrating deeper and deeper.

Crying out, but no one to hear,
no one to care.
Wanting to give, but no one to take.
____________
So many years, so very many years.
Mistakes made that can never be erased.

The darkness grows oppressingly darker.
The unbearable emptiness goes on and on,
no end in sight.
___________
The flame of hope, my only defense, frantically flickers, wanting to go out.
But, there can be no life without it,
so it struggles on, not knowing why.
Why, a question with no answer.

The pressure of unbearable frustration
continually growing,
ready to explode atany moment.
Trying to appear calm, but failing miserably.

Nowhere to run, nowhere to hide.
So much to give, so much to give....
__________
Reach out and help another person,
because, you are really helping yourself.

It's Showing

2009-06-05T09:36:00.000-07:00

© 2005

I know fifty pages of Gemorah.
Oh, I'm sorry, it's showing.

I can't learn with him, he's too slow.
Oh, I'm sorry, it's showing.

He's good but...,.
Oh, I'm sorry, it's showing.

I want to be the leader.
Oh, I'm sorry, it's showing.

He doesn't know what he's doing.
Oh, I'm sorry, it's showing.

I want to do it, my way.
Oh, I'm sorry, it's showing.

But what do I get, out of it.
Oh, I'm sorry, it's showing.

I laughed so hard, when he made that mistake.
Oh, I'm sorry, it's showing.

The Torah is right, up to a point.
Oh, I'm sorry, it's showing.
_____________
I'm sorry, if it slips out once in awhile,
but my ego, is hard to control, it's a real trial.

Yitizi

2009-06-05T09:35:00.000-07:00

© 2005

Hi, my name is Yitzi, and I'm three years old,
I live in Booba land, and it's the greatest, I've been told.

I like cake and pie,
and oh, yes, to fly.

I like to play in puddles all day,
and jumping in water is great, I'll say.

I have my favorite blanket, that I hold tight,
it protects me from the night.

Here I can do, whatever I like,
after all I'm a booba, and I play with my trike.
_____________
But you know, what I like best,
is to have hugs from my mommy, and get kissed.

She squeezes me, until I almost burst,
I turn all red, and it hurts.

But I know she cares, and that's the main thing,
because that makes me feel so good, I could sing.

She wants to help me, be the best I can be,
she helps me to know, what's right, it's the key.

She says, I have a diamond inside,
that has to be polished with pride.

So she says the Shema with me everyday,
and teaches me how to pray.

I also give Tzedekah when I wake up,
in my very own Pushke cup.
______________
My mother tells me stories of Tzaddikim,
telling of people, and how to treat them.

I also learn the Aleph Bet,
so when I go to school, I can know the alphabet.

She told me, how to say blessings in my seat,
before and after, everything I eat.
______________
Oh yes, I learned to say Baruch Hashem,
I say it whenever I can, it's a real gem.

So I say, Baruch Hashem it's so fine,
that Hashem made, a mother like mine.

Baruch Hashem!

Sensitive Soul

2009-06-05T09:33:00.000-07:00

© 2005

There are many windows, to the soul,
they allow the outside world, in to stroll.

But the soul is sensitive, to G‑dliness,
it doesn't relate, to unholiness.
____________
When you see something bad,
the soul becomes coarsened, isn't that sad.

When you hear something not so good,
your soul jumps back, and would hide if it could.

When you eat food, that the soul can't assimilate,
it throws up, and regurgitates.

When you think, only corporal things,
the soul dries up, and can't sing.

These make the soul, dirty and calloused,
it can't shine, with all that ballast.
__________
And when we do actions, that transgress,
we lower our entire being's, holiness.

Hashem doesn't punish us, it's the natural course,
we punish ourselves, when we act without remorse.

Our soul's attachment above, is weakened,
our true life and happiness, become threatened.
_____________
A person naturally, wants to protect their body,
but spiritually, they don't realize they're haughty.

We need to put shades on our windows, that's the test,
and let only light in, and filter out the rest.

Extreme

2009-06-05T09:32:00.000-07:00

© 2005

"You're too religious for me,
you're closed‑minded, don't you see."

"You're an extremist,
the values of society, you don't trust."

"I'm embarrassed, to talk about G‑d,
I'm modern, and He's just a facade."
______________
It seems the more, in G‑d you believe,
the more extreme, you are perceived.

If you don't look like everyone else, that's O.K.,
but if it's for religious reasons, Oy Vey!
___________
But who is really closed‑minded,
do people look beyond this world, which is one‑sided?

The world's ideas and fads, come and go,
they leave, with nothing to show.

Not long ago, everyone wore hats,
and women wore dresses, down to the mat.

Society thought, a lot differently then,
now people think, they're more advanced to no end.

Just because, we are more knowledgeable physically,
doesn't mean, we have also progressed spiritually.

Scientists didn't discover anything new,
it was already there, they just brought it into view.
________
Yet people now think they're right,
but in a few years, they'll change their mind's sight.

Their views are manipulated, by what they read and see,
by what everybody else is doing, and TV.
____________
Torah defines man's eternal presence,
since the soul never changes, its essence.

Torah's ideas haven't changed from the mean,
it's the world, that has become extreme.

Angels

2009-06-05T09:30:00.000-07:00

© 2005

You know David, it was tough down there,
it was hard to always be fair.
Up here we don't have the same fight,
it's just natural to be right.

Yeah, Aaron, it's true,
up here it's easy to be a Jew.
We still have to grow here,
but at least, to transgress, there is no fear.

Down there people get very narrow‑minded,
they think the world is one‑sided.
There is so much more, than what they see,
even if I told them, they wouldn't believe me.
_____________
But you know, David, when we were there,
we could reach as high, as we dare.
Through having free-will,
we could climb, to the top of the hill.

Now we have to wait here,
until they do Teshuvah, it's so near.
So many tests, that they could fail,
yet so many chances, to be great and sail.

I wish we could tell them, what it's all about,
but then they wouldn't get credit, for the bout.

We've been waiting patiently, here we sit,
but couldn't you hurry it up, a bit?

Consume Consume

2009-06-05T09:29:00.001-07:00

© 2005

Eat, eat, consume, consume.
Drink, drink, consume, consume.
Buy this, wear that, consume, consume.

Try this, listen to that, consume, consume.
Use it once and throw it away, consume, consume.
__________
To be a consumer‑ that's what it's all about,
take it in, and spit it out.
"Hey, have you tried the latest fad,
it's great, I'm so glad."

We have to watch TV,
in order to know how to be.
We don't have parents anymore,
so we have to watch TV, to know the score.

It teaches us all we need to know,
why, I have to watch every show!
I don't even, have to talk to Mom and Dad,
It so easy, how could anyone be sad?
___________
Of course, I get tired of the same old thing,
that's why I need, to have a new fling.

Oh, I'm only happy for a while,
but I can't always have a smile.

I just need more of the same,
it's like playing a game.
______________
If one is good, two must be better,
three or four, wow what a trendsetter.

More, more, consume, consume...

The Circle

2009-06-05T09:27:00.000-07:00

© 2005

Take, only when you've given,
give, always.

Talk, only when needed,
and then, only softly.

Work hard,
don't worry about rewards.

Strive for perfection,
even if never reached.

Be humble,
even if others aren't.

Do things with zeal,
not just going through motions.

Why walk,
if you can run.

Smile,
it makes life easier.

Don't miss a chance,
to make someone else smile.

Always say thank you,
it will make you appreciate things more.

Make a living,
but don't sell your soul.

Do what's right,
not what others "say" is right.

Be patient,
it pays in the long run.

Don't worry,
it doesn't help.

Precious Daughters

2009-06-05T09:24:00.000-07:00

© 2005

A precious soul to be elevated,
or just a body to be degraded?

A mother of countless generations,
or just a moment of fleeting titillation?

Temporary pleasures never satisfying,
never finding what you want, but always trying.

Which will it be, a love always growing,
or one that is eventually, boring?
_________
Women, don't let yourself be used,
please do not be confused.

Man is good, but he has powerful desires,
he needs you to say no, and put out the fires.
_____________
We can't sell our precious souls, only to be accepted,
for fear if we say no, we may be rejected.

Something that is special and dear, not earthy,
can only be seen at certain times, and by someone worthy.

Can life be worth living,
without sharing, caring, and giving?
___________
Rise up women and unite,
show the world you're ready to fight.

Don't be lead by physical desires,
but help mankind, reach to what it truly aspires.

Your potential, is waiting to be revealed,
don't give in, have patience and zeal.
__________________
Why do I worry, why do I care,
because we need each other, we need to share.

Each a jewel of infinite worth,
filling the world with joy and mirth.

G‑d sits, and looks at His precious daughters,
softly weeps, and wonders when they will flower...

Friends

2009-06-05T09:22:00.000-07:00

© 2005

Strangers, a "chance" meeting. A human shape in the distance, the same as any other.

Oblivious to one another, as though each of us were only a lifeless mass.
____________
As we grow closer, his eyes... The glassy look disappears for a moment, but quickly returns. I'm barely sure of its occurrence.

Again. This time the glance lingers.
But it also leaves as the first.
___________
I only now become consciously aware of his presence.
I myself look, discerning more than just a moving object.

His eyes slowly move, carefully surveying the features of my face.
I wonder why.
____________
Almost without thinking, I do the same. As our eyes meet, his face immediately turns into a beautifully, wide smile.
Suddenly, feeling alive, I react instinctively, and smile in return.
An invisible bridge now unites us, the bridge of brotherhood.
______________
As we pass he yells out, "Shalom Alechem, Reb Yid!" Surprised, I answer back, "Alechem Shalom!"

As he disappears into the distance I now realize, the previously cold, shapeless form, has now touched me, and made me aware, of my own humanity.

The empty distance, crossed by one human spirit,
warmly reaching out, to another...

Lukshon Kugel

2009-06-05T09:20:00.000-07:00

© 2005

How did people ever live without Lukshon Kugel?
So sweet, so good, for those who are frugal.

All those centuries, that went by filled with strife,
with people not knowing, the meaning of life.

Until one day Mrs. Kugel,
made her invention, the Lukshon Kugel!
A guarantee to cure all ills,
make one rich and famous, oh, what a thrill!
______________
Lukshon kugel, such a seemingly simple solution,
to ages and ages of war, and pollution.
How could anyone want to fight,
after eating Lukshon Kugel, all night!

Why, after eating only one bite,
I sleep for days, with no end in sight.
___________
So my friend, take it from me,
if you want to save humanity,
start telling everyone, to forget about strudel,
and start eating, Lukshon Kugel!

Strands (Mitzvahs)

2009-06-05T09:18:00.000-07:00

© 2005

When I go to work each day,
if I'm bored I do the minimum, and just play.
I can't wait to go home,
time goes so slow, no place to roam.

But if I enjoy what I do,
it doesn't matter when I'm through.
There isn't enough time in the day,
the time flies by, it's great I'll say.
____________
The same is true of Torah and Mitzvoth,
they are also in the same boat.

If I don't understand their value,
they become a burden, which is nothing new.
I just go through the motions,
I do the least I have to, with no commotions.

But when I know what it's all about,
I jump for joy, and begin to shout.
I try to do everything the best way,
I'm more sincere, and think about what I say.
______________
But some people wonder why,
I'm so excited, by something up in the sky.
"Why skiing and traveling, I can understand,
but something that's not physical, has no demand."

Well, it's really hard to explain,
you see, I'm not a philosopher, just plain.
But what I've seen and felt,
makes everything else just melt.
It's something that really transcends,
I'm not just following the latest trends.

But Hashem made, each day a new test,
so it's hard to always, do my best.
Yet Hashem made me this way,
and He also made Teshuvah to save the day.
I can always clean the slate,
why, it's never too late.

For when I don't do something the Torah states,
my soul's connection is weakened, and clogs the gates.
For there are 613 strands up above with a special role,
to be a channel to give life to my soul.
But even though one may break,
Teshuvah makes a knot that doesn't shake.
______________
So think positive, and you'll be surprised to find,
that life is great, with this perspective in mind.

Give and Take

2009-06-05T09:16:00.000-07:00

© 2005

G‑d created the earth complete,
the earth gives to the plant, what it seeks.

The plant takes from the ground,
then gives to animals and man, all year round.

The animal takes, from the plant's substance,
and gives to mankind, its sustenance.

Man's body takes, from plant and animal,
and then is elevated, through a Mitzvah's channel.

Man takes from man,
then gives back, as much as he can.

The poor take from the rich, charity,
and give the rich, a chance to grow continually.

A student takes from his teacher,
then in turn, makes other students richer.

A child takes from his parents,
then in turn, gives to its child guidance.

During the week, we do work that's physical,
then Shabbos elevates it, to a high pinnacle.

The soul unites with the body, giving it life, so dear,
so man can unite the lowest, with the highest, without peer.
_____________
The earth is elevated through man,
returning it back to G‑d, once again.

Now the circle is complete.

I Like

2009-06-05T09:15:00.001-07:00

© 2005

I like blowing a Shofar very loud,
it makes me feel real proud.

I like eating a lot, after Yom Kippur's fast,
I feel holy, and I hope it will last.

I like building my very own Succah, with my hands,
it's like Noah's ark, on land.

I like dancing with the Torah, on Simchas Torah,
I'm glad I know, how to do the hora.

I like singing with the family, around the Menorah,
we sing so loud, we feel euphoria.

I like wearing Purim costumes, and eating hamentashen.
I dress like Mordechai, and save the Jewish nation.

I like asking the four questions at the Seder,
because then I'm the one, that's the leader.

I like eating cheese blintzes on Shavous,
they're so sweet and delicious.

I like lighting Shabbos candles every week,
it brings in the holiness that we seek.

I like the kosher food, we eat every day,
it so good for body and soul, in every way.
_____________
And I like Hashem, He's the best,
He made this, and all the rest.

Life

2009-06-05T09:11:00.000-07:00

© 2005

At first, one, united.
Bound up in the Bundle of Life ‑‑ a soul.
____________
Then, suddenly torn away, pushed far away.
Where am I? Only a voyager, floating in an empty sea.

Finally, another world, enwrapped in a different peace, a different warmth, a different oneness. So strange, where is...? Feeling, changing‑‑ existence.
___________
The serenity is suddenly broken! Turmoil, violent motion; what's happening?
Again, torn from another home, thrust into another unknown abyss. What now, what now?

Something coming in from the outside, never experienced before. The darkness vanishes.
My companion retches at the overwhelming brightness of light! Its piercing force is unbearable!
He cries out in terrible agony‑‑birth!

I feel something warm, reminding me of the warmth of...
Now we are being held, touched; wanting to speak, but neither of us able.
______________
Years have passed. My companion has grown, given everything he wants and more. While I'm totally ignored, left to starve.

Doesn't he know that I'm here? Doesn't he know that we both have to live, or we'll both ...?

How much longer do I have to wait, why can't I leave now? Why should I stay? The silent agony, is unbearable.
__________
Then, an invisible light, totally different than any other.
Not blinding, but warm; at last.

A beauty I've never felt, even greater than the one before.
Two total strangers, together discovering their own long‑lost father‑‑Teshuvah.

Where did the light and ecstasy come from, that are so powerful, they can combine both flesh and spirit?

Where else, but from a creation of the Creator, the Giver of Life.

Torah, ‑‑ Light‑‑ True Oneness!

Awakening

2009-06-05T09:09:00.000-07:00

© 2005

Lifelong friends‑ no even more; father and son‑ no, even more...

Doing things, sometimes not even knowing why; but not asking, making us that much closer.

Sometimes the requests are unbearable; but never noticing, pushing beyond.
__________
My awe of him is overwhelming.

I want to know him, but not knowing how. Nonetheless, I keep trying.

We laugh together, cry together. We share things no one else knows, or will ever know.

We are one. Bound by an eternal bond, that goes beyond words, one that cannot be shaken.

Inseparable, constantly growing together, never alone.
____________
Now, as I think back, I realize all he's done for me; before only thinking about what I've done for him.

I'm choked with emotion, how can I ever...

He understands. His endless patience never falters.

Even though at times he is totally ignored, he knows, it's only because of foolishness, that in time will pass.
____________
All these years, how could I hurt him so?

He doesn't care, as though it never happened.
He only wants us to go forward together, that I should carry on in his footsteps.

I'm his arms, his legs, making him proud of me.

He's always giving. So caring, so caring...
Finally, one with G‑d.

If

2009-06-05T09:02:00.000-07:00

© 2005

I'm only giving you, if you give me.
"Well, I'm only giving you, if you give me."

You're not making me happy.
"Well, you're not making me happy."

Everything should be perfect,
there should be no problems.
_______
If only I had done,
if only I had married...

If I only had,
if only I was...

False expectations, distort reality,
making things conditional, is folly.
___________
Give unconditionally, then you'll see,
that you'll become happy.

Emphasize the positive, at every chance,
then you'll have relationships, that enhance.

Also with children, love unconditionally,
but at the same time, request growth continually.

Respect other's feelings and sensitivities,
and you'll find, you become one, with no difficulties.

The Package

2009-06-05T09:00:00.000-07:00

© 2005

I was minding my own business, walking down the road,
when all of a sudden, he rushed over to me with a load.

He said, "Take this package personally, to California,
the address is written on the top for ya."

He then left without saying a word,
and I stood there wondering, how absurd.
____________
Who does that nut think I am,
do I look like a fool, with the head of a ram?

Does he think I'm going to waste my time and money,
without any reason, boy is that funny."
___________
The same thing happened a few days later,
but this time it was my father, and he had a letter.

He said, "Take this to California and hurry,
I can't tell you why," he then left in a scurry.

Well what could I do, he's my father,
I took the letter, even though it was a bother.

I gave up my time and my money,
because that's what it means, to love somebody.
___________
The fact that it was hard,
And that I didn't understand,

showed that I really cared,
I was willing to lend a helping hand.

Doing menial things, can also make the difference,
it shows we care enough, to do even this with deference.
_____________
The same is true, of our relationship with Hashem.

If we do something that is difficult,
and seems to not make any sense,

then we really have a relationship with Him,
that's not based on dollars and cents.
___________
There is the Torah on the one hand,
then the Giver of the Torah, beyond what we understand.

We need to unite with the Giver first,
in order to see the Torah's holiness and worth.

This makes it different than anything else,
it's infinite like its Creator, transcending self.

Boxes

2009-06-05T08:55:00.000-07:00

© 2005

Boxes, boxes we all live in boxes.
We live in our sealed, separate boxes, not even knowing who lives next door, "walls of separation".
Inside the box we each have our own smaller box, called our room.

We drive little boxes, with windows always closed.
In winter, heated; in summer, air‑conditioned.
When we go to work, we work in a little box called an office.
___________
This box cuts us off from one another.

When we talk to people, we are in our own box.
A doctor box, or a lawyer box, or some other box.

This box determines, who we are.
_____________
Most of us can't see outside of our boxes; we think this is all there is, and that this is all we are.
But others have begun to poke a small hole in the box, and begin to see the outside.

At first like a fledgling, awkward and unsure,
but gaining confidence daily.
___________
The soul also lives in a box.

If the box is lined with gold, conceit, greed etc., it reflects the light back and, like a mirror, we see only ourselves.

But through the learning of Torah- and the doing of Mitzvot- the box is totally transformed- into a vehicle of transcendence.

This allows the light of the soul to shine through.
Even the soul itself, then reaches vast new levels of being.

When the lining is removed, the box then becomes a window, allowing us to see the beauty in each person, and the world.

Now, discovering what lies inside the boxes.
_____________
A box is made to be opened.
Don't get boxed in.

Gefilte Fish

2009-06-05T08:53:00.000-07:00

© 2005

Oh, my gefilte fish,
you fulfill my every wish.

When I eat you once a week,
I feel so unique.
_____________
There you lie on my plate,
oh, I just can't wait.

You make my week complete,
with you, nothing can compete.

When I put my horseradish on top,
why, the whole world stops.

I don't know how anyone,
can last a whole week, without one.

My mother's gefilte fish every week,
feeds my soul, and puts it back on its feet.

Oh, I can't wait,
Shabbos comes so late.
__________
Gefilte fish, oh, gefilte fish,
every time I eat you I speak Yiddish!

The world doesn't know, what it's missing,
you're so good and pleasing.

I could eat a ton,
but then that would be, too much fun!

I like you so much,
I could eat you morning, evening, and lunch.
_____________
So come and join me, won't you,
why it's great to be a Jew!

Coming Home (Shabbos)

2009-06-05T08:51:00.000-07:00

© 2005

Another week has passed,
we've changed the world, hopefully for the best.

But now, it's time to reflect,
we've come full circle, back to the beginning.
___________
Like the body and soul, the week and Shabbath unite,
hand in hand they join, coming home.

After leaving each other for awhile,
they now return, interwoven, one.

The journey seeming as far as East to West,
yet in reality, only turning around one step.
____________
The week now is far behind,
as though it never existed.

As my wife lights the Shabbath candles,
she vitalizes the air with sanctity.

The flame is happily dancing,
illuminating the entire world.
_____________
As I look at the table with the Challoth covered,
and the candles shimmering,

I feel I'm entering another dimension,
of inner peace and contentment.

As I lift my goblet to make Kiddush,
I feel my body quiver with excitement.

Here we stand together,
as space and time, melt before our very eyes.
_____________
In our mind's eye, we perceive the elusive.
In the midst of our hearts, we feel a tremendous glowing.

We've come home,
to our being.

One, united, together.... Home.

A Precious Gift (New born)

2009-06-05T08:50:00.000-07:00

© 2005

As I gaze at the enwrapped gift, I thankfully think of the wondrous benefactor, Who bestowed it upon me. A delicate bundle of warmth, and sensitivity.

Suddenly she moves, and tries to yawn. So tiny, so very tiny. A month ago she was only a distant, waiting spirit. Now, she brings pure joy and delight, to all those around her.

What are her searching eyes looking for? What is she thinking? Since she doesn't know evil, does she know only good? Does she see the G‑dliness in everything? Is that why she always has, such a beautifully tender smile? If innocence is bliss, may we all be innocent.
____________
She's so sweet. Every time she moves I feel a quiver in my heart. Every time I try to leave, she cries. Not wanting diamonds or gold‑ only to be loved, to be held tightly, and loved.

So simple, life is so simple now; why does it later change? Why do people want only power and money? Is that what it means to "grow up"?

When she's in my arms, I can think of nothing else. The world vaporizes into an invisible mist, in which I quietly float.
What is this strange power she has? A feeling people search lifetimes for, and never find.
____________
What is it? I only have to look at her to know the answer.
Is it so hard to understand?
The miracle of life, a G‑d given gift to all of creation, with only man being able to cherish it.

As I burst out into a sea of uncontrollable tears I can only whisper, "The gentle tenderness of compassion." "Thank G‑d."

The obvious answer, no one seems to know, but her....

A Spring Thaw

2009-06-05T08:47:00.000-07:00

© 2005

Cold. It slows life to an almost immobile state, making us thankful for only a whiff of warmth.

Is this G‑d's way of making us appreciate the vibrancy of life?

The simple act of breathing,has become obviously meaningful. Before, only an unnoticed motion; now labored, and made visible in billowing clouds of mist.

Life itself, waxes and wanes, as it is blown by the bitter wind.

Now there can be no doubt, about the tenuous existence of mankind.

Shaking, shivering, making us run instead of walk, we are made uncomfortably aware, of a formerly forgotten body.
____________
Finally, it's spring. The frigid cold of winter still aches in my bones. Yet now, the memories are slowly fading, as the brilliant sun warms my white face.

The quick pace of pulsating life has returned. Moving, growing, changing colors, are bursting out around me. A great symphony, with all of creation playing its own melody, in wondrous unity. Aahh, life...

An uncontrollable smile comes across my face. Everywhere there is beauty. Formerly unnoticed, now exploding in a spectacle of brilliance. Why is this called nature? What's so natural about it?

My senses are overloaded with the excitement of, sights and sounds, and glorious smells of overpowering fragrances.

I can feel my own life rushing through me! The obvious G‑dliness everywhere is overwhelming. I can hardly breathe, as the tremendous exhilaration balloons through my being.
____________
Suddenly, the expansive awareness disappears. What happened? I frantically look around searching for an answer.

Then I realize: What is all this beauty worth if there is no one to share it with? Is this how Adam felt long ago, when he had all of creation to himself, and yet, desperately cried out to G‑d?
____________
Man was not made only to take, and not to give.

I now realize what life really is. Not stone‑like coldness, or even a beautifully sunny day, but one intangible human spirit, reaching out to another; and at the same time, reaching the spirit of all ‑‑ G‑d.

True Friends

2009-06-05T08:45:00.000-07:00

© 2005

As I sit looking at my friend,
there is something that I can't comprehend.

Why is he different, why is it so,
than any other person, that I might know?

What is the connection, that binds us together,
whereas others just come, in fair weather?

Even though there is nothing in it for me,
I still would help him, and he would help me.
__________
Can it be his looks, his wit, or maybe his money,
or perhaps it's just that, he's so funny?

No, I don't think so, because you see,
without all of these, I would like him, and he would like me.
____________
So all that I can surmise,
is that there is more‑ which is no surprise.

What makes us so near, even though we,
may be physically apart, far across the sea,

that transcends all else, come what may,
that even the waves of time, can't wash away?

Why, it must be the eternal connection,
that is the bond, of true love and affection.

Bound by an unbreakable force,
because we are both united, with our source.
____________
I am for him, and he is for me,
true brotherhood, the way it should be.

What is a friend, it's not a new creation,
only bringing the hidden, into revelation.
________________
But in order to have, brotherly love so dear,
you have to first love your brother, who is so near.

To love your fellow Jew, that's all it takes,
to make this world, Hashem's dwelling place!

The Secret Weapon

2009-06-05T08:42:00.000-07:00

© 2005

As I sit in my laboratory, I've almost perfected the ultimate weapon. This weapon is totally different than any other ever conceived by man. It will completely change the entire course of world history.

I've been working on it for years, trying to refine it. I want it to be maximally effective, with seemingly only a small amount of energy required. Now, it is almost finished.
___________
After hours and hours of careful scientific testing, finally the long‑awaited moment has arrived.

I rush outside to find my first victim. I know what makes this weapon different than any other is: once one person is hit, he carries the energy with him, and then transfers it to another unsuspecting victim.

This chain‑reaction continues in a geometrical progression, until in no time, the entire world has been engulfed.
_________
Ah, I see someone! He's looking down at the ground, trying to ignore me. I'll show him! As he draws near I'll get his attention by innocently clearing my throat.

He fell for it! He looked up for a moment! That's all the time I need. The culmination of years, now condensed into one short blast.

As his eyes hit mine, I unload, with the biggest smile he has ever seen!

Just as planned, he reacts without thinking, and smiles in return. I've got him now!

He'll soon meet someone else, and then, unsuspectingly, he'll do the same.

Eventually I'll have the whole world at my feet, accomplishing something no one else has ever done, bringing happiness to all mankind!

Nothing is Something

2009-06-05T08:34:00.000-07:00

© 2005

What is the most important part of a bejeweled silver goblet? Is it the magnificently sparkling jewels, the beautifully finished silver; or maybe even, the skilled craftsmanship, that intricately combines all of the beauty, into a wondrous work of art?
_________
The answer is: None of these!

The purpose of making the goblet, is to be a vessel, with which to drink. So what is the most important part of the vessel?

Its "contained‑emptiness".

If not for this, it wouldn't be a goblet. Despite all the jewels, the silver, and the craftsmanship, it would not be fulfilling its purpose for being created.

The external container is not important by itself; it is the actual use of it, to serve man, that gives it its true value.
___________
If a person does not fill the vessel, but only admires the exterior, he will eventually die of thirst, G‑d forbid.

The same is true of all existence.

The world was originally created by G‑d to be a vessel. The external part of the vessel, was strewn with innumerable jewels, diamonds, gold, etc., an endless assortment of materials and means, for physical pleasure.

But, as with a precious goblet, if we only admire the exterior, yet never fill the physical vessel of life, we will also slowly die of thirst. Not a physical death, but a spiritual one.

For you see, the world was created to be a vessel for G‑d,
but He left the filling to us!

Friend?

2009-06-05T08:32:00.000-07:00

© 2005

The Yetzer Hora, he's my friend,
he goes with me wherever I am.

When I want to hit my sister,
he's right there to help me be sinister.

And when I want to talk loshon hora,
he's the one who says, "Forget about Torah!"

He's even friends with my mom and dad,
he's always telling them to be bad.
___________
He likes lots of chocolate cake,
and getting up real late.

When I want to be happy,
he jumps in and says, "Don't be sappy!"

He gives me lots of advice,
even when I don't ask him, he's so nice.

When I want to help my friend,
he says, "Think about yourself first, don't bend."
_____________
We've been friends for so long,
but I don't want, to do what's wrong.

I have to listen to Hashem,
He's the One who sent him.
_________
My friend the Yetzer Hora helps me be my best,
he was created as a test.

When I don't listen to him,
then I really win.

I have to grow up to be a Mentsch,
do Torah and Mitzvahs, and learn to Bentsch.
____________
But my Yetzer Hora is a good friend,
he never lets me alone in the end.

He still tries to tell me what to do,
but I tell him, "I listen to Hashem and not you!"
___________
So if you want to go higher,
which is to what we all aspire,

then you have to go beyond,
the Yetzer Hora and his con.

Mirage (Values)

2009-06-05T08:31:00.000-07:00

© 2005

Being intelligent- is what I want to be,
I know more than anyone else, look at me.

Strength- is the key to life,
everyone looks, when I walk by, with my wife.

Honor- is what I seek,
I'm so great, and not at all meek.

Power‑ it's the key,
to be in control, for all to see.

Money- buys everything you need,
what else is there, but greed?

Beauty- makes everyone envious,
they all want to be glamorous.

I can't let anyone, ahead of me,
it's competition and jealousy, don't you see.

Why, it's where you live, and the car you drive,
that makes all the difference, and makes you feel alive.

Who you know, that's most important,
associate with the great, then you're not subordinate.

Be famous, an author, or a movie star,
then people really like you, for who you are.

You have to fit into the society around you,
that's the true reality, to follow their cue.
__________
A mirage which seems to be as real as can be,
is what people run after, who can't see.

After a hundred‑and‑twenty no one remembers or cares,
being judged by man, is empty and bare.

Soar Like an Eagle?

2009-06-05T08:29:00.000-07:00

© 2005

Why does man want to soar like an eagle, high in the sky,
and to be strong as a lion, why, oh why?

Is the epitome of life, its biggest thrill,
only to be king of the hill?

Fighting and struggling, to get to the top,
then only to fall, with a big flop!
________
Not me, oh no, I see through it all,
I'm not going to climb, only to fall.

For I am a man and not a eagle,
I have a soul, that is pure and regal.

For me, to be the real king of the hill,
I have to follow the Torah, and do G‑d's will!
___________
To be great in the eyes of man, is not greatness.

Maturity

2009-06-05T08:27:00.000-07:00

© 2005

At five, I think life is a bag of candy.

At ten, a bike is all I want, it's so dandy.

At fifteen, I meet a girl, who sends me flying.

At twenty, I have a son, oh, he's so trying.

At twenty‑five, I try to make my million.

At thirty, I start to wonder, maybe I don't need a billion.

At thirty‑five, I have it all, except?

At forty, I stop running, and begin to regret.

At forty‑five, I wonder, what's it all about?

At fifty, I only now start to find out.
____________
If only in the beginning,
I had known the meaning of living.

Candy and bikes are just fine,
but they don't come close to the eternity of time!

Why did it have to take so long, so long?

A Living Soul (My mother)

2009-06-05T08:15:00.000-07:00

© 2005

A creation of G‑d, sent to represent Him in the world.
Caring, giving, sacrificing, with never even a thought for herself.

When I was sick, she stayed up all night, to be there if I needed her.

When I cut my finger, she kissed it back to health.

When I had my first bicycle, she almost fainted with every turn.

When I once said something without thinking, she cried for a day.
I still regret it. She's so sensitive, so sensitive.
___________
She's always doing, never caring about medals or rewards. Only the knowledge, that she has helped, is enough for her.

Often she comes home late. Finding out only later, that she had quietly helped, some unfortunate person.

When things get hard, you would never know it by her.She always has only good things to say, "Everything will be all right, everything will be all right".

She always encourages my father to learn more Torah. She says she wants the air of our home to be purified, by the holy words.

When I'm too tired to learn, she takes me into her loving arms, and sings old Yiddish songs to me, of great Tzaddikim. She says, I don't have to be a Tzaddik, but it would be nice.
_____________
But you know, the thing that I'll always remember about her, is when she lights the Shabbath candles Friday night.

For two days she works, cleaning and baking, to make sure that everything will be perfect for Shabbath.

She always tells me that G‑d is our special guest on Shabbath. Of course, He's always with us, she says, but on Shabbath, He is a bit closer.

Finally, now it's Friday night. After a very busy week and all the preparation, the time to actually light the candles, has finally arrived.

She has a specially picked out candle for each one of us. She says she has learned, that a woman will have Talmidei Chochamim for sons, if she is extra careful about lighting Shabbath candles.

So, of course, since then, she only uses candles that she hand‑made herself.
__________
She tenderly lights each one. Closing her eyes she says the holy blessing, as Jewish mothers have done, since time immemorial.

Afterwards, she opens them, gently drawing the flickering light to herself.

Then, as she does every Friday night, she softly cries....
The tears, are tears of thankfulness, to G‑d.

G‑d made the world out of earth, but He made my mother out of the souls of angels.

Thank You G‑d!

Thank G-d

2009-06-05T08:13:00.000-07:00

© 2005

1.Thank G‑d for the sun, moon, and the stars so far away,
that softly glisten, so high in the Milky Way.

2. For soaring mountains, and flowing seas,
whose gentle waters, always put me at ease.

3. For summer, winter, spring, and fall,
whose falling leaves I played in, when I was so small.

4. Warm sunshine and big blue skies,
whose overwhelming beauty, moistens my eyes.

5. For the plants, animals, birds, and little bumble bee,
who all live together, so peacefully.

6. Tall trees, green grass, and soft flower petals,
whose wondrous fragrance, on gentle meadows settles.

7. Old friends, who are there in time of need,
who always are ready, to do a good deed.

8. Birthdays, holidays, and weddings,
that only come once in a while, but are such happy settings.

9. For mommies and daddies, and sweet little babies,
who gurgle and giggle, and eat their little toesies.

10. Baby sisters and little brothers,
who are always crying, for their mothers.

11. Big smiles, tender feelings, and tears of joy and thanksgiving,
that all make life worth living.
___________
But most of all, thank G‑d for G‑d, and His infinite Creation,
Who made this whole world, for man and his elevation.

Innocence (Babies)

2009-06-05T08:10:00.000-07:00

©2005

What are these feelings, that make life worthwhile,
every time, that I see a baby smile?

So innocent, soft, and so sweet, the petal of a flower can't begin to compete.

What makes them so extraordinarily delicious, even though, they're so mischievous?

They can't walk, they can't even talk,
they just look around, and sort of gawk.
___________
But when they grow older, they're not as sweet, as when they are helpless, and so petite. Why does this bundle, so small and so weak, have the power, to make me weep?
____________
I think that the answer may be,
that they are so innocent, and pure as can be. '

They really want only one thing, just to be loved,
that makes them sing.

This is all that they truly need,
so very simple, I'm sure you'll concede.
_____________
May the sleeping baby that is in me,
wake up, and help me to see.

For the innocence that we all feel,
is our precious soul, so soft and so real.
____________
So may we all reveal the child in us, once again,
and bring joy to the world, with no end.

Birds

2009-06-05T08:06:00.000-07:00

©2005

A bull, such a heavy animal, always looking down at the gravel.
Whereas a bird, is surprisingly light, in an instant it's out of sight.
___________
A bull moves very slowly, dragging along its oversized belly.
A bird races through the air, seemingly without a care.
___________
A bull only sees what's in front of its nose, he doesn't care where he goes.
A bird is always looking afar, trying to reach a hidden star.
____________
A bull runs over everything in its path, it doesn't care, it just releases its wrath.

A bird flies over and around, it doesn't even touch the ground.
___________
A bull likes to wallow in mud, it falls and rolls with a big thud.

A bird wants to fly to the highest peak, the world below it doesn't seek.
___________
A bull fights with other animals it meets, he has to be king to feel complete.

A bird has the summit to reach, he doesn't have time to compete.
_____________
The body and soul, seemingly opposites,
yet they must unite, to reach G‑dly heights.

The body, seemingly a limited being,
yet it too, can start feeling and seeing.

It can redirect its power,
since it has free-will, it can tower.
______________
Now the bull and the bird, become one,
together a new life, they've begun.

The Flickering Flame

2009-06-05T08:04:00.000-07:00

©2005

The gentle flame, flickering to and fro,
where does it seemingly want to go?

Stretching and soaring ever so high,
forever wanting to reach the sky.

Why, oh why, does it want to leave,
to go to a place that I can't perceive?

Does it know something that I don't,
or does it just naturally want to float?
____________
Everything in G‑d's wondrous creation,
was created to be a part of His revelation.

It's not just the flame and its beautiful light,
but also our soul that wants to take flight.

Our precious soul, given birth by the Creator,
always wanting to return to its Emanator.

Continually flickering, always striving,
wanting to leave this world, and its continual fighting.
_____________
But the soul was created, for an illustrious goal,
to make this world a dwelling, for the supernal.

For just as the flame needs precious oil to exist,
this world needs the soul to persist.

Just as the flame takes the oil even higher,
the burning soul, sets the body on fire.

Then, together hand in hand,
they both go, to the Promised Land.
_____________
So may all the flickering flames, become torches,
and each one of us- the revelation of our sources.

Then the world will be a truly warm place,
which will be the epitome- of the human race!

Waves

2009-06-05T08:02:00.000-07:00

©2005

Life is a wave, that flows in and out,up and down,
is that what it's all about?

People are kind, people are cruel,
the world we live in, has no golden rule.

We grow, we have children who we hope will be good,
but who knows the end, or even if we should.

Money comes hard, so very hard,
but some have it easy, and pay it no regard.

Health is a gift from above that no one appreciates,
we start out strong, and then we depreciate.
____________
So why do we keep putting one foot in front of the other,
what keeps us going, further and further?

Here I stand at the junction of time,
leading a life seemingly, with no reason or rhyme.
____________
But you know what keeps me going?
It's the fact that I am, continually growing.

Knowing who I am, makes it worth the fighting.
Life is rich, full, and so exciting.

For I am a creation of G‑d,
but you'll have to look, beyond the facade.

I'm not just going through the motions,
because each move I make, causes supernal commotions.

The plants, the animals, and even the earth,
all depend on man, and his birth.

Now I am one with creation,
and the source of its elevation.

Journey

2009-06-05T07:58:00.000-07:00

©2005

A journey begins with only one step.
But if that little step is not taken, the journey is never made.

The tiny soul is thrown out of the womb of G‑dliness and sent far away into total darkness, only to try and find its way back.

Groping, and searching in the dark, which is filled with danger. Many get lost along the way.

Even the few that make it, may not have done it alone, but through the secret merit, of some unknown ancestor.
____________
Here we stand looking back. Only now seeing the past for what it really was, and breathing a sigh of relief.

The journey, of course, is not over. But the first obstacle has been overcome.

Now, forgetting about the past, and looking only to the future. What new challenges lie ahead?