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If you are like me, a secular Jew who is starting to observe mitzvahs, this episode is for you!

In Shabbat 101, you will hear about the primary steps to observing Shabbat - candle lighting, kiddush, hand washing and challah - and hopefully you will learn from my mistakes! I share very interesting historical and traditional information, as well, and explanation for why we observe commandments the way we do.

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Mitzvahs: Candle lighting, kiddush, hand washing, challah

baal teshuvah (master of return)

Song “The Shabbat Queen” by Ḥayyim Naḥman Bialik

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In the past, I attended synagogue services and events only on High Holidays, thinking that those were the only special days in the Jewish calendar. But now that I am becoming more and more observant, I am learning that there are many more important dates in Jewish tradition that I had no idea about. One of them is TishaB'av, which is considered the saddest day for Jews.

This year, I decided that it was essential I learn more about this holy day (not holiday). In this episode, you will learn about my first experience observing TishaB'av at Chabad - what the day entails, what me must do and not do on this special day, and why it is the saddest day in the Jewish calendar.

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I attended a very interesting book signing of Rabbi Levi Y. Shmotkin, who recently edited and published "Letters for Life: Guidance for Emotional Wellness from the Lubavitcher Rebbe".

Shmotkin spoke on various topics, presenting examples from individuals he himself interviewed that had received letters from the Rebbe. Shmotkin spent years reading and researching the Rebbe’s correspondence and archives. The common denominator he identified was the Rebbe’s advice and teachings on coping with the inevitable challenges that threaten our peace of mind.

The Rebbe was the one that brought Torah wisdom down to earth and made it accessible for all. His teachings and guidance evident in the many thousands of letters he personally answered are inspiring and life-changing.

In this episode, I share what touched me the most and what all people can apply to everyday life to achieve emotional wellbeing.

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Book - "Letters for Life: Guidance for Emotional Wellness from the Lubavitcher Rebbe"

The Rebbe - Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson

Levi Y. Shmotkin - author and editor

Psalm 23

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