This week, Torah, the Jewish calendar, and personal experience converge in a powerful way. As we read Parashat Tazria-Metzora, enter the healing month of Iyar, and count the Omer through the lens of Tiferet, I reflect on what it means to hold hope and heartbreak at the same time while accompanying both my daughter and my father on their cancer journeys.
Jewish Art
Invitation to Distinguish
Reflections on Parashat Shemini, Gevurah, Havdalah and Yom HaShoah There is something deeply meaningful about the word ul’havdil — to distinguish, to separate, to see clearly. In Parashat Shemini, we are told: “You must distinguish between the holy and the profane.” (Leviticus 10:10) This command isn’t only for the ancient priests standing at the threshold of the Tent […]
Tending the Flame
As we enter Shabbat HaGadol, the Great Shabbat before Passover, we find ourselves standing at a sacred threshold—between preparation and remembrance, between liberation and revelation. In this week’s reflection, I explore the spiritual journey of Counting the Omer, the seven lower sefirot, and the call to tend the holy flame of hope, faith, and love. I’m also delighted to share that my new guided journal, Counting the Omer: A Spiritual Journey, is now available as a digital download in the shop.
Answering the Call
Parashat Vayikra begins not with a command, but with a calling. This week’s reflection explores the intimacy of God’s call to Moses, the meaning of the small alef in Vayikra, and what it means to listen for the work we are truly called to do. It also includes my prayer, “The Call,” and a glimpse into my new exhibit at the Olitsky Art Gallery at Congregation Beth Or.
Choosing Joy in Troubling Times
How do we choose joy when our hearts are heavy and the world feels unsteady? This reflection for Adar and Parashat Vayakhel explores what it means to hold sorrow and joy together through community, gratitude, prayer, creativity, and hope.
Striving for Equanimity
Parashat Ki Tisa reminds us that life is not a story of perfection but of breaking and repairing. When the Israelites shattered faith with the Golden Calf, God revealed the Thirteen Attributes of Compassion — teaching us that even in our most difficult moments, we are invited to return to our best selves. This week’s reflection explores compassion, resilience, TNBC awareness, and the sacred work of showing up with presence and love.