In Belarus, Finding A Dwindling Jewish Community
VITEBSK, Belarus — Vitebsk, the original home of world-renowned artist Marc Chagall, is an apologetic city. On everyone’s face is written a different variation of “nu, so we live here.” […]
A European Journey & Remembering Amoz Oz
“No, I have no desire to go back for a visit: what for?” says Amos Oz’s aunt Sonia in A Tale of Love and Darkness, a recollection of Oz’s life […]
Shabbat Weekend In Bulgaria
I prefer not to seem like a dumb American tourist, but I much more prefer not to be called a “Russian.” It took me a day to get a hold […]
Social Media & Tragedy Collide In Israel
The scrolling makes the news cheap.
Truth In Jerusalem Is More Negotiable Than Reality
JERUSALEM — My reality is that I wake up every day in a building that once belonged to Arab Palestinians (or whatever term readers would like to use for the […]
Herzl Campers Among Protesters Heading Toward Jerusalem
Herzl campers, Ozrim, among the marchers.
Experiencing The Women Of The Wall
JERUSALEM – “Are your tefillin plastic?” they said, gathering around in a horde of black and white to poke, and prod, and laugh. “Do you wear tefillin on Shabbat? Of […]
Shabbat Diaries, August 3, 2018
The emotional roller coaster that comes at the end of camp season.
My Ukrainian Trefa Banquet
It’s funny what a little kielbasa can do to a guy.
Almost Like Returning Home
What lessons were learned on a trip to Belarus?