I haven’t even begun to process the last 10 days, but I simply must express my heartfelt joy and appreciation for those who helped make it the most successful HiHo ever. Although I am completely exhausted, today, my heart is soaring. First and foremost – thanks go out to my Dad, Rabbi Stephen Spiegel, who gave … Read more
You would think it takes sheer genius, or a miracle, or a huge revelation, to truly cause a shift in someone’s life, right? Not so much. Try a simple, single act of giving, and see what that does – not only for the person receiving your gift, but for you – when you take part … Read more
I just came across a well-written post by a Reform Rabbi in Washington, DC, in response to the recent NYT article that seems to be hitting a lot of nerves around the world. While I recognize that some of my colleagues provide this as a fast track, meaningless way to substantiate a monstrous party – … Read more
I was reminded of this by a friend and colleague of mine, who has written (and is soon to be arriving in bookstores) a book called 1000 Mitzvahs: How Small Acts of Kindness Can Heal, Inspire, and Change your Life. I’ve always admired Linda for realizing that sometimes it is the small things that matter … Read more
Reading back over some of my past blogs, I was reminded of one of my all time favorites. Given that the topic is so prevalent again, today, and I have so many new readers, I wanted to bring it out of hiding, and into the forefront again. Enjoy! Reprinted from August 17, 2008 by cantorballard On … Read more
My friend, Linda, is wrapping up a very important project. I know I have mentioned her here, and she is certainly on my blogroll, but in honor of her 1000th Mitzvah, I needed to send out a reminder. Linda, who lives in Portland, Oregon, decided to perform 1000 mitzvahs in honor of her father’s memory. … Read more
I just looked at the date, and realized we are halfway through March, and I haven’t even finished blogging about February, yet. March has already been a very fun month for me, as I just got back from spending a few personal days in Atlanta, and had such a great time. When I came back … Read more
Several months ago, I received a marketing package from Esta Asteroff, of MP Artworks, telling me about her clergy referral program. I have to admit, I may not have taken notice of the site without it, but, after closely looking at her products and prices, I decided to begin recommending her site to my clients. … Read more
I guess I should start this blog entry, by clarifying that no event I’ve ever done has resulted in 3 (or more) entries, until now. Somehow I feel that’s important, because usually, as much as many of my events are warm, moving, loving, and well…exceptional, the story of Max’s Bar Mitzvah is more than all … Read more
I’m so excited. This is a divine weekend, for sure, and I have been so looking forward to its arrival. There is such an amazing story about how I got here, which I will tell later, but, for now, the beauty of the fact that I am here is enough. So, tonight begins Max’s Bar … Read more
