Blog Ancient Healing Wisdom
May is Mental Health awareness. The Torah, the wisdom of Chasidic Rabbis and the spiritual writings of Jewish mysticism effectively intertwines ancient wisdom with contemporary psychological challenges, demonstrating that the struggles faced by our ancestors are remarkably relevant today. By integrating teachings from the Torah, Hasidic literature, mystical texts, and modern commentaries, we can explore healing that resonates with various aspects of human experience.
Issues—such as trauma and grief, sibling rivalry, family dysfunction, addiction, and abuse—have been addressed by our ancestors. Using ancient wisdom encourages individuals to draw strength from their heritage while navigating the complexities of modern life.
In addition to the insights from Jewish texts, incorporating perspectives from Greek and Roman philosophy can further enrich the discussion of mental health. Philosophers like Socrates, Plato, and Epictetus emphasized the importance of self-knowledge, emotional resilience, and the pursuit of virtue for achieving a balanced life. For instance, the Stoic belief in focusing on what is within our control aligns with the Torah's teachings on personal responsibility and faith in divine wisdom.
By blending these ancient philosophies people can gain a multifaceted understanding of mental health that encourages self-reflection, emotional growth, and a deeper connection to both their spiritual roots and the modern world. This synthesis not only highlights the timeless nature of these teachings but also offers a pathway toward healing and wholeness that transcends generations.
May is Mental Health awareness. The Torah, the wisdom of Chasidic Rabbis and the spiritual writings of Jewish mysticism effectively intertwines ancient wisdom with contemporary psychological challenges, demonstrating that the struggles faced by our ancestors are remarkably relevant today. By integrating teachings from the Torah, Hasidic literature, mystical texts, and modern commentaries, we can explore healing that resonates with various aspects of human experience.
Issues—such as trauma and grief, sibling rivalry, family dysfunction, addiction, and abuse—have been addressed by our ancestors. Using ancient wisdom encourages individuals to draw strength from their heritage while navigating the complexities of modern life.
In addition to the insights from Jewish texts, incorporating perspectives from Greek and Roman philosophy can further enrich the discussion of mental health. Philosophers like Socrates, Plato, and Epictetus emphasized the importance of self-knowledge, emotional resilience, and the pursuit of virtue for achieving a balanced life. For instance, the Stoic belief in focusing on what is within our control aligns with the Torah's teachings on personal responsibility and faith in divine wisdom.
By blending these ancient philosophies people can gain a multifaceted understanding of mental health that encourages self-reflection, emotional growth, and a deeper connection to both their spiritual roots and the modern world. This synthesis not only highlights the timeless nature of these teachings but also offers a pathway toward healing and wholeness that transcends generations.
Blog Perfection
Emor
Beginning with Leviticus 21:16, the Parsha Emor states that individuals with physical defects cannot serve God or the community through food provision or service.
I recently discovered that in the 1800s, many states in America enacted “ugly laws,” making it illegal for people with disabilities to be seen in public. These laws remained in effect until 1974.
Who among us is truly physically perfect? One leg may be shorter than the other, or our eyes might not align perfectly. As we age, our bodies become less than perfect; eyesight dims, walking becomes uncertain as arthritis sets in, and health challenges arise, leading to surgeries and losses.
From the moment we are born, we encounter emotional traumas—both small "t" traumas and significant ones. A caregiver may not always respond when we need them, affecting our ability to form secure attachments. Sadly, many experience physical or sexual assault, often overlooked in discussions about trauma. The sudden loss of a beloved grandparent or pet can unleash grief that lingers long after the event. Over time, sadness and anxiety can become our new normal.
Is it physical and emotional perfection that God desires from us, or is it a quest for spiritual perfection? How do we heal from our imperfect wounds?
When we encounter someone with a disability, we might stare, perceiving them as different or strange. However, my experiences working with individuals with disabilities have shown me the depth of their humanity. One man, confined to an electric wheelchair due to multiple sclerosis, was particularly inspiring. Despite his slurred speech, his brilliance and humor shone through. He made the daily journey from the southern part of town to participate in daily prayer services and work for the city. It was clear that he was meant to serve the Holy One.
As we engage in the counting of the Omer, we are currently in the week of "Hod," or splendor. Let us take this time to recognize and appreciate the splendor in our world, including the diverse individuals who may differ from us.
Emor
Beginning with Leviticus 21:16, the Parsha Emor states that individuals with physical defects cannot serve God or the community through food provision or service.
I recently discovered that in the 1800s, many states in America enacted “ugly laws,” making it illegal for people with disabilities to be seen in public. These laws remained in effect until 1974.
Who among us is truly physically perfect? One leg may be shorter than the other, or our eyes might not align perfectly. As we age, our bodies become less than perfect; eyesight dims, walking becomes uncertain as arthritis sets in, and health challenges arise, leading to surgeries and losses.
From the moment we are born, we encounter emotional traumas—both small "t" traumas and significant ones. A caregiver may not always respond when we need them, affecting our ability to form secure attachments. Sadly, many experience physical or sexual assault, often overlooked in discussions about trauma. The sudden loss of a beloved grandparent or pet can unleash grief that lingers long after the event. Over time, sadness and anxiety can become our new normal.
Is it physical and emotional perfection that God desires from us, or is it a quest for spiritual perfection? How do we heal from our imperfect wounds?
When we encounter someone with a disability, we might stare, perceiving them as different or strange. However, my experiences working with individuals with disabilities have shown me the depth of their humanity. One man, confined to an electric wheelchair due to multiple sclerosis, was particularly inspiring. Despite his slurred speech, his brilliance and humor shone through. He made the daily journey from the southern part of town to participate in daily prayer services and work for the city. It was clear that he was meant to serve the Holy One.
As we engage in the counting of the Omer, we are currently in the week of "Hod," or splendor. Let us take this time to recognize and appreciate the splendor in our world, including the diverse individuals who may differ from us.
Blog Post Title Three
It all begins with an idea.
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.
Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.
Blog Post Title Four
It all begins with an idea.
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.
Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.