When the eighth day of Pesach falls on Shabbat, those of us living outside of Israel lain…
Commentary from Cascais
Portugal is one of the few countries in Europe in which no Jews were deported during World War ll.…
Beauty in Belmonte
The ancient town of Belmonte is nestled in the mountains of Portugal, with breathtaking views and…
Forced to Convert
When one thinks of recent world powers, it is unlikely many would think of Portugal. But had we…
Landing in Lisbon
I last travelled abroad in February 2020 to visit our daughter studying in Israel. Arriving back in…
Pinchas: Next Leader Please
Success and great leadership go hand in hand. That is why organizations, sports teams and even…
Balak: Reality Check
In a world in which image and marketing play such a crucial role, perception is often more…
Chukat: It's Only Natural
Judaism has always understood that miracles have very little long-term impact on one's behaviour.…
Korach: Power Outage
The lust for power can destroy a person. It is amazing how people who are otherwise very competent…
Shelach Lecha: The Wrong Fit
Having the right people for the wrong job can lead to tragic consequences. Such was the fate of the…
Beha'alotcha: Dan and Din
“[Then journeyed] the flag of the camp of Dan m'aseif, the gatherer, of all the camps” (…
Naso: Welcoming the Outsider
The first chapters of the book of Bamidbar focus on readying the people to enter the Land. The…
Bamidbar: A Heavy Price
In order to be effective, leaders must be sensitive to the feelings and concerns of the general…
Shavuot: A Long Weekend
This year, Shavuot falls on a Sunday. This rather unremarkable observation is of little import…
Voting for Heaven
For those living in the Province of Ontario—that includes yours truly—today is Election Day!
Bechukotai: Truth and Consequences
Judaism demands that we do what’s right because it’s right, without thought of recognition or…
Behar: Interest Rates are Falling
“I am the Lord your G-d, Who took you out of the land of Egypt”. While we associate these words…
Lag BaOmer: Coming Together
Lag BaOmer is a mysterious holiday. There is no mention of it in the Gemara, a fact that led the…