Today marks some 2500 years (depending on what account and date you use) since the army of the Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar encircled Jerusalem, capital of the Kingdom of Judah. In the Jewish tradition, this day, the 10th day of Tevet, is marked by fasting, and it precedes the fasting obse…
Writing is one of my greatest passions. As have many, I discovered this passion as a product of a childhood suffused with books. At home, at school, in the public library, as I walked from the bus stop (!!), under my blankets in bed with a flashlight, wherever and wherever I could. I read my…
Growing up in an interfaith family, I was exposed to two different religions and cultures from the time I was born. I personally always loved the way my parents handled this, as I was taught to go into situations with an openness to learn and a healthy respect for different customs. Ultimate…
One of the enduring mysteries of human cognition is how to distinguish between the destructive power of fire and its capacity to illuminate, civilize, and educate. The very same flame that can burn a house down can also cook food to sustain us. A torch can be a weapon of war, and it can also…
Recently, my adult children came to visit me from Canada. As has become our tradition once or twice a year, we make a pilgrimage, as we are all insatiable readers, to The Strand Bookstore in Manhattan. Upon leaving at each visit, my children and I each depart with 4-5 books we’ve found amo…
