My island

The Dead Sea and its healing ancient minerals

2010-02-14T15:59:00.000-08:00

Since ancient times the Dead Sea has been known for being a source of healing salts and minerals that generate healthier beautiful skin.

People who suffer from various skin disorders such as Psoriasis usually go in groups to Israel to benefit from the healing properties found there; it's a known fact that the minerals and salts found particularly in the Dead Sea help improve the skin appearance, elasticity and rejuvenation of dull skin by removing dead skin cells.

One could wonder why the Dead Sea's waters has such a healing fame...But it's due to its highest minerals concentration and it has the highest amount of saline concentration, even more than the Mediterranean sea.

People with skin diseases who have been submitted to Dead Sea's salt and mud treatments have seen visible improvements of their skin's appearance and relief; though their deseases might be incurable, when they follow the daily Dead Sea's mineral mud and salts which produce incredible results.

It's just amazing how mysterious and miraculous the Dead Sea can be; scientists have researched and confirmed that its high concentration of minerals and salts are indeed a source for skin treatments.

That's why there are several spas surrounding the Dead Sea area and several cosmetics offer the Dead Sea's nourishing ingredients available to the rest of us who can't easily just fly to Israel on a daily basis.

I've just recentely tried one of the Dead sea's mineral mud packages and I was really amazed how the holy land's minerals are indeed effective.

I'm so amazed at it's cleansing and hydrating effect that I had to blog about it.

you can see some related videos from the news about the Dead Sea below.

One great Dead Sea certified line is available at SeaNspa

Check SeaNspa's blog

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lD4KwtSYUHQ&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VG8aPbGDeNo&feature=related

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dead_Sea

New family support groups for the community

2010-02-14T15:34:00.000-08:00

The Jewish found organization SPARKS has created a new revolutionized way to further its non-profit assistance for the community and for all families in need of guidance when dealing with mother's depression.

The organization is now reaching for women who might have tendencies for PPD ( Postpartum depression), in other words now, SPARKS is developing its preventive assistance as well as for those already suffering the pains of this terrible illness.

The high risk levels in the Jewish community due to high birth rates has awakened the need for prevention; so even before planning a pregnancy, a future mother and her family can learn from its informative classes and groups; therefore a husband can also be better informed to the sensitive needs of his wife, marriage and family.

It's highly suggested that women who already suffer from mood swings, thyroid problems, PMS, depression and other hormonal problems should be better informed about what can be its implication to an eventual pregnancy and that the absence of any preventive action could result in Postpartum depression after a child's birth.

Neglecting PPD could be a dangerous risk for the mother, child and her family; as it can harm a child for the rest of her life; the best thing one can do is to prevent and if already suffering from this agonizing illness to run for help as fast as possible.

Life should be celebrated and not be a painful experience, so if you are suffering from PPD, knows someone who might be suffering or fears that you could develop PPD, please get in touch with the SPARKS organization and they can assist you with privacy.

To be directed to their website, simply click on the title text.

Recipe of Kosher Brazilian Cheese Rolls

2009-12-29T21:10:00.000-08:00

This recipe is a famous one in Brazil as known as " Pao de Queijo" and the Kosher ones are doubled price in Jewish markets in Brazil...Thus, it's just impossible to find a ready kosher sale of these delicious rolls in Brooklyn.

I've made dozen of these for this past Chanukah when we indulge in cheese eating...One bite leads to another! They are rich in iron and are amazingly delicious!

Here goes the recipe that takes only 10 minutes, if you want more, all you have to do is double its ingredients -

One can note that the main ingredient is "Sweet Polvilho Starch" which is a Brazilian product, therefore, if one can't go all the way to Queens to buy it, it can be used either "Tapioca Starch" or "Sweet Cassava Starch" - since this "Polvilho" Powder comes from Tapioca. So, in other countries it might be named either Tapioca Starch or Cassava Starch !

Ingredients

4 Cups of sweet Tapioca Starch or Cassava Starch ( Polvilho Doce in Portuguese);

1 table spoon of salt or as one may like it;

2 cups of Milk ( 300 ml);

1 ounce of Oil ( the original recipe says 1 cup, it's up to you);

2 big egg ( I use one - if you want it lighter you can use only the white);

4 cups of shredded cheese;

Oil to grease

Preparation :

1 - Put the starch in a pot;

2- Separately bring to boil in a pan, the milk and oil;

3- when it boils, scald the starch with this mixture, mix very well to avoid little bumps;

4- Let it cool;

5- Add the eggs one at a time, alternating with the shredded cheese and stir well after each addition;

6 - Make your hands greasy with oil if needed;

7 - Make balls of 2(cm) size and put them on a baking sheet;

8 - Take to the oven in a medium temperature of 180 degrees, pre-heated;

9 - Bake until it reaches a golden color !

And Enjoy this dairy treat !

Some kosher Brazilian products can be found in regular supermarkets in Brazil, therefore, if exported to the USA they can be bought in places like in Queen where there are Brazilian markets; here goes a Brazilian site of kashurut/ kosher items :

http://www.bdk.com.br/GaleriaProdutos.aspx you can be directed at it by clicking on the text above.

The misinformation on David Goldman's case

2009-12-29T19:32:00.000-08:00

The misinformation on the custody case that David Goldman has spurred is so hypocritical that I can't be quite about it anymore.

It's just that since I'm a Brazilian and Law graduated in there, I'm very aware of the law involving this case; at the beginning I was even sympathetic about his side of the story, but once one searches the other side and I heared in my native language the other side and all the legal and fact issues and the more he gets the liberal NBC sympathy and ugly portray of his ex-wife who is no longer here to defend her side, it just shows his character.

It's important to note that there was no international kidnapping and that's the reason that he wasn't getting the child custody recently; Bruna Bianchi brought Sean Goldman to Brazil with the biological father's acceptance, doesn't even matter if he argues that he didn't know, because that is other issue, and as far as the information goes, he was supposed to go there and didn't; thus, they got divorced and it's legal for a Brazilian citizen to get divorced in her own country, thus maintain the child custody.

Now, why didn't he go there ? How can a father doesn't go to visit his child for 5 years ? His argument that the family didn't allow him to see the child is so visibly false! The family did not impede him of seeing his biological father.

One day I saw David interview showing one single package that he tried sending to his son and had been returned to the USA while the family was away on vacation; I know it by own experience that many times when during my engagement my American husband sent some package it would have to be taken at the Postal office until 15 days, but if the person is away it goes back to the sender!

As far as I know he didn't try to get the custody of his son while his ex wife, Bruna Bianchi was alive...Though, weirdly while talking to her on the phone, he recorded her voice, thus only showing on TV her voice, but not what he was saying...Isn't that strange?

The relevant aspect of the story is that when David Goldman got divorced, he never wanted to see his child again, only after his ex died, though alleging international kidnapping citing the Hagen Convention.

Now, it seems they weren't happily married and Bruna's mother has mentioned that the boy even saw some fights...Now David pretends that he knew nothing was wrong and blames on a person that is no longer here to contradict him.

He just portrays Sean's mother as an unhealthy selfish person when he's been exploiting the child's imagine and getting the sympathy of multitudes through NBC's endorsement of his cause due the dramatization of it to attract more viewers to their money making drama.

In all Brazilian news, not once you can ever see Sean's clear face! Yet on MSNBC, you can see clear pictures of Sean's face which is an abuse of his privacy and goes against children's protection.

David Goldman has exploited so much his own biological son's imagine to gain power and money that it's frightening; in his website he was even selling his dead ex wife's picture in an apron and T-shirts with Sean's face and I did happen to see it in his site a year ago when I felt bad for this dad.

That's one of the reasons Brazil wasn't allowing him to come back and not that they weren't respecting the Hagen Convention!It had been decided that the Convention wasn't applicable to this case.

It's ought to be explained that after Bruna's death, the Step-father was able to get only temporary guardianship of the child, since that a child can't be without guardianship under Brazilian Law and besides the boy has gotten a baby sister there and he's got dual citenship; nevertheless only after her death is that Mr.Goldman really intented to get Sean' custody, since he never asked for visitation.

Besides that, according to Brazilian Law and to the Hagen Convention that the USA and Brazil are signers, it must consider the well-being of the child; Brazil does give preference to giving custody's to biological parents,unless that is not the best for the child's well-being.

Now, Sean's Brazilian family is a prestigious family in Brazil; Bruna was a business lady and she happened to remarry Joao Paulo Linz that comes from a highly competent lawyer's family and they happen to enjoy a highly life style.

I know which neighborhood Sean was living, because I happen to have lived there as well and I know New Jersey pretty well as well and it's just almost impossible that he would be able to adjust to the drastic change.

The point is that I sensed that David's exposition to the media and etc, just showed a lack of character and it was visible that he was after the money that The Bianchi and Linz family possesses and today it has surfaced that he desires to get at least U$500,000 from the Brazilian family! The child is Bruna Bianchi's heir, so that makes sense for him to want so much the custody after so many years of neglect of visiting his son.

Besides that American politicians such as the one in New Jersey that threatened Brazil with U$ 3 Billion Dollars product tax fees is so illegal, besides the liberal media's help to Goldman and his Hillary and Obama's sympathy that wanted to talk to Brazil's president !

Don't they knew about the "Checks and Balances doctrine" that the "Executive Power" doesn't interfere with the "Legal Power" ?

Yet, all these American politicians seemed to fly to Brazil and Then other interests of some business men seemed to have influenced the Brazilian Supreme Court Judge...After some politician's involvement in a Justice Power case, and dealing with higher economic forces, even before the Judge's decision, the Brazilian Lawyers Union had sided with David Goldman.

But, one thing can be assured the truth always surfaces and at the end Justice will always prevail.

May G-d comfort the broken heart of the grandmother that knows the details of this ugly battle and now sees that David is really after her money; after all, his money has being flowing from his website to bring the child to the USA and from the media drama.

PS: Firt of all I'm doing is analysing the situation out of the perspective of the Media that influences in general people.

I'm not in anybody's favor or agaisnt David - what I'm doing is just analysing that some people just assume something against Sean's mother without the big picture and not aware of the legal matters judge things.

Besides, I'm in favor that a biological father stays with custody, nevertheless I find weird that he exposes his son's image at his site and makes money out of it: http://bringseanhome.org/index.html
and in youtube videos from interviews they add their own edition with Bruna's recording voice - and find weird that when a person is recording the other - one can lead the person to say what they want to hear.

Kidnapping means to abduct by force or fraud - so, I'm just analysing that there's an accusation without vehement proof that there was a fraud, since no child leaves a country without WRITTEN permition - he was supposed to go there anyways or there was problems in the marriage - in all the instances in Court understood that there was no kidnapping.

Thus, later when a couple signs divorce the custody is set, if they divorced, there was a settlement and custody is set.

The second part of the issue is that the mother died, thus the custody issue is raised again regarding the guardianship that the biological father is entitled - though elements of the child's well being is analysed and the question regarding a new born sister is raised.

All I'm doing is raising legal and facts issues, not taking sides, but due to the fact that I'm seeing big pictures and not taking sides, I find even more disturbing that people that do support the father right away assume: Oh you have an agenda or call out for ignorance!

I question why a father has to go into the media by showing his own son's image - thus, it's not healthy the exposition and the critic against the son's mother who is no longer here, but is being considered guilty without the privilege of doubt and all I'm doing is raising these questions.

Dual citizenship people and their mothers usually travel to their countries - mothers usually travel with babies and toddlers to their countries back and forth -

I'm not a big favor of divorce - the best is for couples to work out their differences, but I'm not going be judging or accusing people, thus just following the news media.

At least the media in Brazil didn't side with any side, just show the information on both sides and there's no selling of drama.

David asked for U$500,000 dollars, supposedly for legal fees but he's got donations for the law suit as it can be seen in his website above.

Now, you can just see that all people make up edition on videos for David as you can see at

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=to4F3Jb_aLI&feature=related

it shows the grandmother talking, and David's recordings - she's saying that David payed the mortgage and her daughter the bills, etc, she's not saying that he didn't work - also she was saying the presently Sean didn't call him father which came out in the press lately... and he was supposed to go on the third week there, and then they show a part of a recording...Weirdly a year ago there were products being sold at his dad's website.

I Just wish David be a good father and not exploit his son's image selling to the media.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MYEIqrBYl6U

Chag Sameach wishes for all Yisrael

2009-10-07T19:30:00.000-07:00

As we approach the seventh day of Succot known as Hoshanah Rabbah which means day of great Supplication where there is the sealing of the Judgment which has been ordained in Rosh Hashanah.

May our prayers for a good and blessed year for us and all humanity be answered and may we all soon enjoy simchat torah in Yerushalaym with Mashiach.

So, the whole world may see that we don't need any politicians such as Obama to dictate how to deal with the holy land, but may G-d himself rule and determine a favorable fate for his people.

The great Shofar will one day blast calling out all the dispersed in the exiles as most of us are and no matter how confortable we might be; if we pray with all our hearts, the shofar will blast and call for us !

We recently recited the blessings of the mussaf of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, so may we soon reunite with the blast of the Shofar Hagadol which will cease with our physical and spiritual exile !

Check my quick wish video of Chag Sameach in youtube by clicking on the text above !

Succot celebrations and the unknown Jewish factor of Rio's Olympic Games!!!

2009-10-06T20:08:00.000-07:00

The Jewish holiday of Succot (feast of booths or huts) is celebrated right after the High Holidays of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur which are known as the days of judgment and awe; Succot is a harvest holiday where we not only remember that the ancient Israelites dwelled in a Succah ( Huts/booths) in the desert after escaping from Egypt; actually build a Succah to eat there and have a little of the feeling of how it was like living in a humble dwelling, yet having the Divine clouds of protection better than any modern security system ever created.

Besides the Mitzvah (Torah commandment) of building a Succah; we say blessings on the harvest fruits such as an etrog (Citron) and pray for protection from calamities for the four corners of the earth, and get to enjoy many celebrations with music and dancing.

After the days of judgment we embrace the holiday of Succot where we have the joy of experiencing the spiritual blessings and the fun that this holiday has to offer and the last days of Succot are actually Shmeni Atzret and Simchat Torah which mark the ending of the Torah reading cycle with lots of dancing and rejoicing !

Yesterday, I went to Crown Heights where Jewish people from all over the world come to celebrate and dance together where there’s concert staged from Chabad.

I had a great time, because I met some friends from the Jewish community of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and we had so much fun together and saw Brazilian flags waved by some Jewish guys from Rio; we were happy that Rio will host the Olympic games, but even happier to celebrate Succot together in a place which has become a meeting point in New York.

Talking about the Olympic Games in Rio on 2016; I bet that few people know that the real contributor for this is the Jewish Brazilian Olympic bid president Carlos Nuzman!

So, all the Brazilian flags in Crown Heights reminded me and should remind Brazil’s President Lula that Carlos Nuzman is Jewish and was the key element to bring the games to Rio.

Most Jewish people in Brazil have an active role of contribution to Brazil’s culture, arts, music, business, economy and sports and now more than ever a contribution to the Olympic Games!

I uploaded some mini videos of the celebration in Crown Heights (has 4 tiny parts) just press on the text and it directs to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7sNPuuiMv-Q

About Nuzman :
http://www.universalsports.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=23000&ATCLID=204800653
http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Carlos_Nuzman.jpg
http://www.gonomad.com/roundworldphoto/2007/10/carlos-nuzman.html

BIG ANTI-SEMITISM IN HONDURAS’S RADIO!!!

2009-09-30T22:24:00.000-07:00

EXTRA! Anti-Semitism broadcasted on a live radio show in Honduras.

A stupid radio broadcaster in Honduras who favors Zelaya has slandered the Jewish people on a live program accusing Jewish people of trying to scheme against Zelaya which is an absurd, besides the accusation he goes on to say against Israelites and derogatory language and mentioning that the Jewish race should have been destroyed and that Hittler didn’t finish his job !

I heard the news from a newsletter that I receive from a Brazilian Jewish blog which is elaborated from the Brazilian honor counsel for Israel and Journalist Osias Wurman in his blog in Portuguese http://www.owurman.com/blog/ ; there’s a video which you can hear the radio director speaking out his venom words against the Jewish people and Israel due to the chaos that his own president Zelaya caused and still don’t stop to cause more troubles!

One has to wonder why such hatred people have to blame the Jewish people for their own stupid behaviors and it annoys me even more that his president invaded the Brazilian embassy in Honduras and so far has remained there.

Now, it just came to surface the hatred against the Jewish people in general from this radio director and all these Chaves and Zelaya followers. I hope the world should be aware of these dictators and know that they are only trying to find scapegoats for their dirty.

Dictators cannot tolerate FREEDOM in its good sense and they always try to blame on the Israelites, since the beginning of the Jewish people.

But, just as many Pharaohs arose and fell, so it will be with any other dictator eventually. We just can’t sleep over these matters and must ask G-d for deliverance; we should be aware of these evildoers’ slanders and fight it both spiritually and politically.

If anyone understands Portuguese or Spanish you can hear the audio, even if not, you can still understand the word ISRAELITA and Hittler.The video can be checked at http://www.vimeo.com/6825710 or by clicking on the text of this post.

A NEW YEAR'S MESSAGE

2009-09-29T19:04:00.000-07:00

It's not late to wish AM ISRAEL and humanity a sweet 5770! I hope everyone that is reading this post has enjoyed so far the High Holidays known as the days of awe.

Now, before speaking about the beauty of our feasts; I have to say that the large Jewish community in Brazil and I as a Brazilian citizen are extremely upset about the encounter of the brazilian president Lula with Ahmadnejah at UN conference; every Rosh Hashanah he participates in the holiday celebration and so did he this time again, but Baruch Hashem BRAZIL and the Jewish people there do not agree with politics of just trying to get along with this tyrants in order to avoid conflicts and keep the exportation to Iran. The hatred that dictators preach have to be dealt with rigor and not in a passive way; so the message of BRAZIL AND ITS JEWISH PEOPLE to Lula is WE DON'T WELCOME DICTATORS, AM ISRAEL HATERS and HOLOCAUST DENIERS to our land of freedom;we will advocate and fight agaisnt the influence of this evil.

Now, about my Rosh Hashanah experience: it was very interesting this year in a very positive way, Baruch Hashem. I was able to enjoy the prayers sang by the Chazzan/ cantor Stark and my husband and I met a sweet couple from Canada that came to visit the husband's mother in the hospital, so we went to visit some patients at the hospital as well and I felt like it was one of the best prayers that I could offer...

Now this Yom Kippur I had the privilege of having a live dream with my sweet late daddy, it felt so real and I feel grateful to G-d for His kindness.

If we read the newspapers, we can see that most of its news are not enthusiastic and positive, nevertheless, if keep our souls in the spirit of the High holidays where we reflect and try to improve ourselves and ask forgiveness to G-d, thus in the holiday of Succot (Feast of the booths) we embrace the sense that our prayers have been answered, being sheltered by the Almighty’s heavenly clouds symbolized by the booths that once the ancient Israelites lived in the desert.

I hope everyone may harvest good blessings from their sincere prayers and enjoy the Yom Tov of Succot that is right on the corner and just like history tells, may we really experience its joyous occasion with news of Divine interventions individually and as a G-d fearing nation.

May Hashem Himself bring His SHALOM to ERETZ ISRAEL and not the treaties of politicians that think they could solve the problem and may we all gather together soon in Yerushalayim.

An interesting article upon the Jewish and Arabs living in Brazil, check at http://www.brazilpoliticalcomment.com.br/content/view/104/29/lang,en/ or click on the text of this post.

Tidbit on the role of the Shofar

2009-09-17T11:37:00.000-07:00

First of all I'd like to detail a tidbit history of the Shofar which is a ram's horn that has been used as a sounded instrument from ancient Yisrael.

The Torah was given to Yisrael with the blasting sound of the shofar ( Shemot/Exodus 19:19); and Yisrael conquered the Battle of Yericho ( Jerico) with the blast of the shofar (Joshua 6:20); the shofar was blown as a sign to all Yisrael as an assembly during wars ( softim/judges 3:27; Shmuel 20:1); the shofar was also used during the coronation of kings (1 Kings 1:34, 39) and it was blown to announce the beginning of the Chaggim, the Jewish festivals (Numbers 10:10); and to celebrate the new moon on Rosh Chodesh (Psalm 81:1-3) and for a Teshuvah (Repentance - Isaiah 58:1;Ezekiel 33:1-20) and other appointed times such as distress, judgements, deliverance and so on.

Klal Yisrael will be advised on he coming of Mashiach through the blast of the Shofar (Zechariah 9:14,16) and the Shofar's blasts are a reminder that Hashem is on control of everything, as it causes awareness of his sovereignty.

The sound of the Shofar awake us to our spiritual reality and help us to be aware of our soul's need to reconnect to our Sovereign Creator who is the only one that can bring us deliverance from our distress.

Rosh HaShanah is also referred to as “Yom Teruah”, the Day of the Sounding of the Shofar, or the Day of the Awakening Blast.

Each sound is different. The various notes of the shofar that are blown are known as:

teki'ah--one long blast,

shevarim--three broken sounds, and

teru'ah‑nine--staccato notes.

The shofar blasts have the following sound patterns below:

teki'ah‑shevarim teru'ah‑tekiah;

teki'ah‑shevarim‑teki'ah;

teki'ah‑teru'ah‑teki'ah.

The final sound, the tekiah is longer ( teki'ah gedolah, which means a "great blast") and it reminds us about the verse from Isaiah which says: "And on that day a great ram's horn shall be sounded" (27:13)

Therefore, I'd like to wish each one of my friends, family, Am Yisrael and all good natured human being a true meaningful and happy 5770 with lots of joyful occasions, shalom and health !

BOOS to “Prez. O” and other extreme liberal media squad.

2009-07-16T22:28:00.000-07:00

*A personal thought about a fraction of their stupid actions and destructive mindset. *

You don’t have to be an economist to realize that Mr. O’s plans for taxation for health care are one of the worst options for an economy that is suffering a pit fall. His tax increase will happen to even affect families that make about $350,000 a year; does anyone remember that he mentioned not raising families’ taxes? I think it’s too soon to forget his lines.

It’s detrimental to know that people who run businesses and make a reasonable amount of $1 million a year will suffer even more taxes in a city like New York where everything is already highly taxed and extremely expensive. Some may not even care about it, but in the long run it means less jobs and businesses in a city like New York.

It’s really sad to know that people didn’t realize during his campaign that his aim is some kind of redistribution by punishing those who worked hard for their money. It will indeed be even worst for those who are just trying to get around with any job whatsoever.

His changes are definitely for the worst – If those who could be a source of employment are going to be punished, how in the world there will be job offers? This will only strengthen China which will probably have many businesses moving up there, so they will be less taxed and avoid all the other headaches.

The less stimulation for the growth of businesses, the less job offerings there will be in the United States and it’s really a sad thing. It really means the end of the so famously known “American dream”.

After all his approved laws, Mr. O said that there will be even more unemployment. It’s clearly visible that the situation is just aggravating even more.

Now, I just happened to read that he warned his audience not to think that there’s no discrimination in the USA against some minorities.

Interesting enough, I had just seen O’reilly’s commentaries at foxnews.com about a columnist called Maureen Dowd that had the audacity to ridicule white men and conservative women. I agree with Bill O’reilly’s comments and wonder if these ultra liberal women only have an “open mind” for “liberal” women and terrorist sympathizers; this lady wrote the following “Sarah Palin is the definition of irrational, a volatile and scattered country-music queen without the music. Her Republican fans defend her lack of application and intellect, happy to settle for her emotional electricity”.

Why some frustrated women insist on knocking down Sara Palin or any family oriented woman? Is that because the majorities of conservative women constitute families, loving their husbands and children?

Where this hatred comes from? Does believing in G-d and family values raise a threat for nowadays society? When does all the “understanding” and “complicity” to the human cause end in the liberal point of view?

The bias of such people is so destructive, because they probably hate themselves and therefore hate anything that goes against their baseless ideologies.

People with such mentalities are influencing millions of people with their loathsome bias writings and attitudes, and unfortunately many people fall for that. So much so, that they elected a president due to the media’s persuading misleading.

Just to finish this never ending subject, I’d like to say that H.R. 1388 has been approved in order to fund ($20 million dollars in tax payers money) the arrival of thousands of “refugees” from the Gaza strip who happen to be part of the famous terrorist sect ( I don’t even want to mention its name). You can check it for yourself. www.thefederalregister.com/d.p/2009-02-04-E9-2488(you can be redirected to this site through pressing on the title of this post).

May G’d have mercy on all Am Israel and righteous among the nations.

Michael Jackson’s death – why has it turned into silly politics?

2009-07-07T20:14:00.000-07:00

* It shouldn’t be about a black or White issue *

I had to write about it, because it has gone too crazy the whole politics that people are rising towards Michael Jackson’s figure.

I have to say that I quite don’t agree with the two sides on this ridiculous media and politics fight – Michael Jackson wasn’t a figure that represented one particular race, he made himself set apart from a man of only “one” race. His music titled “black or white” could speak by itself far better about his person towards interracial issues.

The fact that now some black people try to really make it a racial issue, is really ridiculous, since MJ himself was an international soul – one of the positive elements of his personality was his ability to connect with people of all races and nationalities. He wasn’t limited by any element of race at all, but rather represented a universal soul.

It’s weird to see all these pandemonium from all sides, especially after one’s death; after a person is gone, there should be some respect and consideration.

People have the right to like or dislike whomever they want to; and have whatever opinion they have upon any public personality. But, I’ve never seen anything like it before that after one’s death; people should be fighting over their own preferences and personal reactions and besides making it a political and racial issue.

The congressman Pete king is on one hand entitled to think whatever he thinks about MJ and it doesn’t mean a racial issue whatsoever, nevertheless on the other hand, I think he shouldn’t be babbling his position out loud at the moment that Michael Jackson’s family is grieving, thus making it a political issue. Anyway, Why so many name callings?

Because the truth is that all the “molestation allegations” were never proved whatsoever; and actually at the trial it was visible that there was financial interest involved there. Anybody is entitled to think whatever they want about such allegations….But, honestly MJ really seemed to be more of a naïve person, than an evil molester. Which child has not desired in an innocent way to sleep with relative adults and even adult friends and vise versa? I wonder how much more would children want to spend time with a charismatic music entertainer? I find this whole thing so funny(Honestly, president “O” is the one that seems to have some character’s problems).

Can’t a person point out the positive message that a famous personality like Michael Jackson posed at least at his death?

Michael Jackson was a musical entertainer that represented lots of controversies for sure, mostly due to the change of the color of his skin – maybe due to his disease vitiligo or an eventual lighting of skin. It’s visible that he had something, but what “if “he had lighted his skin? If so, why did it bother people around? If that made him feel better about himself.

I’m sorry, but to attack someone’s character, supposedly to “over “ reports about his death, in my opinion don’t have any fundamentals – sure the media reports all kinds of stuff to sell, but it’s understood to be normal to report over a famous figure that happened to be one of its unique kind in the music industry. And whether we like it or not, he had positive attributes which was able to break racial boundaries and that is the great element about his person and made him a popular figure all over the world.

The fact of the matter is that he was an artist who wasn’t part of this “racial “mind set – on the opposite, he is one the rarest “black” artists who didn’t make it an issue. For the USA history that’s a very positive message.

The media is really making this a whole issue – this should stop it already. The two sides are too over the edge, it shouldn’t be politics and it's not a racial issue.Period. It’s about the death of an American singer who broke all awards records in the music industry.

The politics in all sides should let the musician and entertainer rest in peace for once.

Interesting article about it below.

http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2009/07/07/taking-sides-michaels-death/

Are boys - the fragile ones ?

2009-07-03T11:01:00.000-07:00

- boys the weaker ones -

A research of the University of Tel Aviv (Israel) has demystified the idea that women are the fragile ones; the study proved that male babies have a weaker immunological system after monitoring about 66 thousand births. The study concluded that boys have much higher risks of diseases and they are far more vulnerable to several ailments after birth than girls are.

According to their analysis the boys can still suffer an overgrowth inside their mother’s womb which could result into a premature birth.

This fragility is said to be due to the lack of estrogen which is the female hormone that protects the baby girls from the harm of the surrounding environment.

Even though the boys birth rates are higher in accordance to CDC( National Center for Health Statistics) statistic’s than the girls birth rate, all the environmental dangers encountered before and after their birth – and even in an older age the effects of the testosterone levels can unfortunately cause many aggravations, according to researches. So, even if the boys rate are higher worldwide and specifically in the United States, the worry still remains on the boys’ death rate which is higher than girls.

We all knew that females usually lived more than men, and now studies show the reasons of this life factor.

It’s pretty interesting the findings of these statistics – yet in my own humble opinion, there are many women in modern times suffering from heart diseases and from many ailments that they didn’t suffer as much before.

It’s understood that as infants they might be better protected and even in adult life as matter of their immunological system. But, the choices that one makes in life as an individual later in life may make a huge difference.

Men used to be the ones that primarily smoked and abused from overdrinking and got themselves into accidents and fights – they still do so and supposedly because of their search for adventure resulted from testosterone levels…

Though, inherently men seem more vulnerable preys to the harms of the environment as shown in these researches; Women have become a lot more vulnerable in recent times as they are active participants in dangerous professions and are taking all the bad habits such as smoking and drinking which by the way has been proven to be much more harmful to women than men! So, I don’t see this whole thing as black or white, but I see the gray line between, in other words, I always see the middle ground, and I won’t say that men are the fragile sex – maybe in the maternity cribs the baby boys are the weaker ones…

Ps: clicking the title will redirect you to the Statistic's site. And there are other information about the issue below and it’s pretty interesting findings…

http://www.sixwise.com/newsletters/05/06/22/why-are-more-boys-than-girls-being-born.htm

http://www.jornalalef.com.br

http://www.fact.on.ca/news/news0303/nt030316.htm

http://www.enotalone.com/article/19491.html

CYBER WORLD

2009-06-29T20:39:00.000-07:00

Thoughts about a high tech world

About three weeks ago, I heard someone saying that they would never be able to live without the internet or all the intricacies that technology has to offer. I just paused and thought about my own life and what would be my reaction if I got lost without any internet whatsoever, and wondered whether I would survive and came to think that I certainly would.

The internet can be pretty addictive I admit, and it’s better used for education and family connection – nothing that is too much is healthy. But nowadays almost everything gets done in the cyber world…from banking online, shopping, international calls and conferences, chatting, studies outlines and all sorts of business and entertainment with the convenience of doing it all at the same place.

The downside is that you look around on a train ride and it seems that all the people around you are not really there, since they all got their “entertaining devices” at hand; nobody wants to feel bored…You can notice that some teenagers don’t even know how to interact with others in a real world!

Once I was on a train ride, and there was a look like “rebellious teen” who was listening to a blasting music coming from her i-pod and right in front of her was standing an elderly lady – It kind of hurt me to see that some young people don’t have any clue of what goes on right in front of their eyes. I pitied the elderly lady and thought that she probably had given out her seat so many times to the elderly on her young age which is something people don’t care any longer, since they are immersed in their own world.

The point of the overdose of entertainment is that people basically lost their sense of social skills and besides that, many times we happen to be so immersed in our own world and so distracted to pay attention to daily blessings, thus forgetting about our earthly mission to our Creator.

I’m sure that we can even use high tech devices to connect to G-dliness, as some people are really using i-pods to learn Torah, recite Tehilim (spalms), etc…Yet, I wonder if we aren’t exaggerating.

We are G-d’s children and should optimize our times to be in connection to those who need a helping hand or hear a good word and give a little of our times to Hashem…In modern times with all the expedition to a cyber world the SHABBAT has turned to be even more essential to our souls.

But, here comes my dilemma – right after my “Socratic” research about our cybernetic society it happened that my instrument for my homework study, researches, news info and family connection suddenly collapsed! This instrument, Baruch Hashem was only my laptop!

Ouch it hurt though…Well, it was last week and it’s still being taken care of – but I got frantic to know that I wouldn’t be able to do my online studies required for my real concrete LIU classes and finals. I still got to use the LIU library computer, but it wasn’t my own little device, if you know what I mean…

So, a friend helped me to get at least my desktop computer up running, which is the one I’m using right now…There’s more into life than just connecting online – yet it’s the modern times challenge.

I got say that there’s room to do good deeds even in a cybernetic way of live – G-d’s creation is not limited and we play a special role in it – so, even through the cyber connection – one can and should positively touch one’s life with a word and even smile and make someone’s life meaningful – yes, even good words coming through a computer screen can spread some light out somewhere…

Brooke Greenberg - An eternal baby?? - 2005

2009-06-24T17:59:00.001-07:00

Brooke Greenberg is a 16 years old girl who looks like a toddler ! In other words she has a body of a six month old baby and speaks with infant sounds. She hasn't aged at all, even though her bone structure has been pointed out to be 10 years old.
Brooke amazingly survived a brain tumor by sleeping for straight 14 days, thus awaking up without any tumor whatsoever; besides that she has also miraculously overcome a brain seizure without any damages - so, her parents have credited her with healing powers.

Therefore, this 16 years old "baby " has puzzled doctors who are trying to find out what is it that keeps her from aging at all;

As Brooke Greenberg hasn't developed either physically or mentally she happens to attend a special education for special children at a Baltimore Public School.

There will be a documentary about her life being aired this year 2009 in the USA.

Berry Weber - Bei'olkim Official Music Video

2009-06-09T16:26:00.001-07:00

Here goes a nice video clip of a new rising Jewish star on the making - his rythem, words and style sound beautiful and fresh !

It really has an unique style and I thought to post here at my blog as soon as I watched it !

It's a video with a positive and cheerful side of life and as the music of this video cheered me up - I hope people can cheer up as well and enjoy the posted video !

YiddishFest 2009 tomorrow !

2009-06-09T15:52:00.000-07:00

For those who enjoy free concerts at parks and Jewish music at the same time, you can take the opportunity that there will be happening a YiddishFest concert on Wednesday June 10th 2009 at the LINCOLN CENTER'S DAMROSCH PARK for free at 7 pm - for those interested it's located at 62 Street (bet. Broadway and Amsterdam)Take 1 Train to 66 Street Stop.

The Performers will be David Krakauer's Klezmer Madness with hip hop beat architect Socallei Mike Burstyn Pharaoh's Daughter.

It's a continuing tradition of 40 years to have large scale Jewish concerts in the Parks of the city of New York and for those who are interested you can either
Contact the circle.org through phone or e-mail - (212) 889-6800, ext 319, email NYRegion@circle.org or visit their Website at www.circle.org

A titbid about the air france crash

2009-06-05T11:23:00.000-07:00

The French diplomatic agency has opened a proceeding trial to investigate the disappearance of the Air France Flight 447 on the basis of involuntary manslaughter. The proceeding trial will be conducted by the judge Sylvie Zimmerman.

Among the 228 passenger that were in the air France flight 447 was a religious member of the Jewish Chabad community of Boulogne-Billancourt in France - Shlomo Anidjar who was 40 years old and left wife and children.

One member of the now-defunct brazilian royal family and descendent of Dom Pedro II, the nation's last emperor, was as well on the plane, Prince Pedro Luis de Orleans e Braganca, 26 - His ascendent was a deep friend of the Jewish People and was very literate in Jewish studies and in the Hebrew language and I would like to write down about this fascinating historical theme in a future post.

It's just a terrible tragedy the lost of lives and hopefully the black box of the plane will be taken before 30 days after the crash, so the recording won't be lost.

So far the Brazilian air Force ( FAB ) has found 28 bodies and they are being examined for identification purposes.

My heart and prayers go to the family of the victims of this terrible tragedy and I hope all the mystery about the crash be resolved as soon as possible.

http://www.actu.co.il/2009/06/un-juif-habad-francais-parmi-les-victimes-dair-france/

Irritable Male Syndrome

2009-05-31T12:26:00.001-07:00

The irritable male syndrome is something that many are unaware of, yet everyone knows that male anger can be extremely caotic.

There's a book called "the irritable male syndrome by Jed Diamond, author of the this male menopause book, as it can be seen above in the video.

Guys who are extremely angry, usually suffer of hypersensitivity, they don't recognize their "hormonal" syndrome as a irritable period.

These men tend to blame their loved ones for everything...Thus, these untreated emotional problems can lead up unto more "tensions" like alcohol, aggression and abuse which can be divided into a physical or emotional abuse.

IMS symptoms are similar to male-hype depression often expressed through irritability and scientific research has just begun on this matter.

A lot of men recognize that they suffer from some kind of anger mood and they can be one day the sweetest and the next act like a total stranger...Yet, they live in denial.

I guess anyone that may know a person who is extremely angry should look for some help by first checking out the symptoms of this IMS syndrome and there's a quiz and information at Dr. Jed's webpage which is http://www.theirritablemale.com
and you can find the link for a quiz and he can certainly help with guidelines for a healthier life style.

I think this approach is very helpful, since many women can find some help while being abused and etc through several organizations, yet there's a big need of offering help for many men that suffer from this syndrome and eventually if not treated can become extremely violent and abusers...

The link for the quiz is http://www.theirritablemale.com/quiz.htm

Ladino Song - Abraham Avinu

2009-04-01T20:43:00.001-07:00

Dear friends and visitors,

Sorry for being on a vacation for so long and not being able to dedicate myself for sending new posts !

So, as a fast breaker and an apology - here goes a beautiful Ladino music video to warm hearts up with this melodious song in this Jewish language spoken by so many Sephardim worldwide.

I hope to be able to write new post in the near future !!!

If I don't be able to write before Pessach, which I truely wish and hope that I will...In any case I wish all a Kasher'v chag samech !

The Lost American dream

2009-02-12T18:59:00.000-08:00

The United States is facing many problems; and in special the economic aspect has affected the lives of millions of people.

In September of 2008, we all witnessed the collapse of financial institutions, stock markets and many corruption scandals escalating one after the other.

Despite of a series of uncertainties the USA elected a new president which opposes the very idea of capitalism and all that made the USA a great nation.

The USA has already encountered many economic challenges in the past; we all know that the crash of 1929 was one of the worst global depression.

Yet, the great depression came to be a lesson for perseverance and hope to overcome the challenges in the following years which originated the American Dream, a never ending pursue of a dream style of life.

But, now there are many other challenges…Many people took the so called “American Dream” for granted; as many indulged into shopping and shopping without any limits. The nightmare of buying beyond one’s limits has ruined millions of lives.

Besides the adoration for riches after riches, many people have tried to ban the belief of the founding fathers that declared their trust in G-d in very possible way. There’s a lack of morality and integrity in all levels of society.
Of course that it’s correct to study, work and aim to prosper; but it shouldn’t be an ending for itself. Doesn’t anyone see that to desire to consume and consume can’t be the solemnly reason of life?

Meanwhile, terrorists who solemnly desire to destroy freedom get a free pass due the weakness of a decadent American society that has shunned the idea of G-d and morality out of their lives, thus become to blind to see the truth.
By now, the whole world knows that the American life style’s origin wasn’t really the result of jobs or inheritances, but the availability of credits from the financial institutions from the Country.

All these false idea of credit originated that the USA had the most secured and stable economy in the World.

Nowadays, we can all see the terrible result of the ideal of a society that only aims to spend money that one doesn’t have.

There are many aspects in today’s world society that is unfolding to several kinds of problems, but the collapse of an economy affects us all regardless of life style, beliefs, religion and background.

In resume, there can only be one answer to our generation: Turn to daven (pray) to the Creator of Heaven and earth. Let’s pray to Hashem ( G-d ) to direct The USA, Israel, nations, and that we shouldn’t be driven by the way of the wicked.

When facing problems and specifically financial difficulties – families should unite more and be more considerate with one another; Hashem places challenges before our very eyes, so that we may overcome them and acknowledge that there’s more to life than buying thousands of pair of shoes, jewelry and so on every week. G-d wants to hold us tight and direct all our steps.

May Hashem bless us all and watch over our brothers in Eretz Israel.

Synagogue Kahal Zur Israel - The First in the Americas

2009-02-12T13:44:00.001-08:00

As the Jewish people have been experiencing the exile for centuries...There have been Jewish immigration all around the globe and especially to the New world, in other words to the Americas - North and South America respectively.

We all know that Am Israel have a natural connection with Eretz Israel, the land of Israel.

But,few people may be aware of some connection between The Jewish community of New York and the Jewish community in a northern state of Brazil...

So, even though the above youtube video is not one of the best produced by some students - their english is far from good - yet, it quite shows the mikva and structure of the old synagogue in the New world.

Yet, the first synagogue of the new world was actually built in the city of Recife, Pernambuco in Brazil approximately in 1636- and some of its members were the ones that founded the first shul in New York, USA which is the Shearith Israel located on Central park west 70 th st.

Nowdays, both communities carry their own identities...yet, the connection of the Jewish people surpass the bondaries of nationalities and countries.

The Jewish community of Brazil still faces challenges like any other, yet its Ahavat Israel and friendship is an example to be followed.

http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/922773.html
http://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/jsource/vjw/Brazil.html
http://www.shearithisrael.org/folder/learning_history_new.html

Some trust in Horses (Mr. "O"?), others trust in G-d!

2009-01-21T18:39:00.000-08:00

Some trust in Horses (Mr. O?), others in G-d

It’s been about two months since I just stopped taking about B.Hussein “O”, since I was so puzzled how America really got to elect him.

Yet, after seeing such acclamation and adoration about his inauguration…I have to write down my simple thought…for goodness sake what is this whole adoration, reverence and big hopes on a man that got elected as the president of the United States of America?

How can people so blindly put high hopes on a single man for solving all the World’s problems? What is it about this man that I just don’t see at all?!

Is his flip flops tendencies and extreme belief in socialism, abortion and liberalism the reason for high hopes in people? Where has the world gotten itself into?

What is it that I and anyone is witnessing? I just don’t understand why people are turning him into an idol and most of his admirers make a real cult about it….Am I wrong or am I the only person that thinks this way?

The anti-religious people who deplore the idea that there’s a G-d have turned Mr. B.Hussein O into a god and a cult…

The point is people shouldn’t put their solemn hope into a president which is just going to do his job governing a Nation; there are a lot of odds which are beyond the power of any man.

It’s up to G-d, the creator of heaven and earth to truly bless a Nation and its governments who directed by G-d could be an instrument of blessings or curses.

The Egyptians of ancient time happened to suffer a lot of cursing consequences due to their Pharaoh’s wickedness.

So, from this perspective one should ask G-d that a ruler of a Nation should act well to its citizens, but it’s true also that G-d allows people to elect the ruler that they “deserve” according to their own actions.

The fact that yesterday after hearing of such acclamation towards the new president I though about the verse in Tehilim (Psalms) that says “Some trust in chariots, some trust in horses; but we rely solemnly in Hashem, our G-d”!

Interesting enough, today I heard Dick Morris call Prez “O” stimulus plan a true Trojan horse…But, we must trust not in horses, but solemnly in G-d!

THE RISK OF UNTREATED POSTPARTUM IN THE JEWISH COMMUNITY

2009-01-15T15:35:00.000-08:00

I had written before about the critical condition of postpartum depression that many women are likely to suffer after childbearing regardless of nationality, social status and religious background.

I just want to emphasize more on the necessity of this condition to be treated, especially in the Jewish community where the birth rate is high and many women suffer silently from PPD.

Postpartum depression can affect a woman’s well being for a long time after childbirth and if not treated it can develop into a lifelong thyroid condition.

So, I urge all ladies to be attentive to their health before and after childbirth and be aware of any unusual symptoms that one might be feeling such as to name few: excessive sadness, uncontrollable crying, lack of interest in the baby, confusion, anxiety, total exhaustion or severe fatigue, feeling of guilty, disturbances of sleep, mood swings up and downs…

But, if these symptoms don’t get treated it can become a much worst condition, and it’s a mistake that many women leave it untreated and undiagnosed.

It’s important to note that problems untreated after childbirth is likely to become a thyroid problem during life and be triggered in a future pregnancy, menopause or a general stressful time.

If you know somebody who might be suffering from PPD, you can contact the non-profit organization SPARKS whose primary mission is to help women in the Jewish community to overcome this condition.

SPARKS is doing a terrific job in helping women in the community, yet it survives solely on donations; therefore this a great Tzedakah cause that everyone can contribute due to its worthy cause which is the Yiddish mama’s cause.

Check SPARKS’s website: http://sparkscenter.org/about.htm or click on the title to be redirected.

ISRAEL HAS THE RIGHT TO DEFEND ITSELF

2009-01-03T21:54:00.000-08:00

What’s wrong with the World? How dare nations find it normal that the terrorist organization – hamas can send rockets into Israeli soil and find outrageous that Israel is defending itself!

But, when Israel finally awakes and is defending its innocent civilians, the World complains? I wish they complained half as much as when innocent children die in Israel - and now they have the audacity to complain when Israel is striking the evil terrorists which by the way are called militants in the bias mainstream media.

It’s interesting that the UN and the whole world suddenly care about the death of innocent civilians which in the majority are the wives and children of terrorists; what about the Israeli civilians? Isn’t it plausible that a country defend itself against harmful rockets that fall into its territories?

How dare the world is furious?! If your neighbor attacks you, what are you going to do? Sit and wait until he finishes up with your family?

Israel is doing its best to protect innocent Palestinian civilians and offer humanitarian help – nobody wants wars and nobody desires to kill Palestinian civilians.

Nevertheless, it’s the terrorist Palestinian organization which insists in killing the innocent civilians in Israel.

If Israel doesn’t defend itself – who among the nations would exclaim: There are innocent children dying on the floor…I’ve never heard any UN consul reprove terrorist’s activities that kill Israeli civilians.

I’m appalled to find the hypocrisy of the media and world government to reprove Israel, when all it is doing is to finally fight back terrorists who shouldn’t be called “militants”; terrorists think that Israel doesn’t have the right to exist and want to kill any innocent person that in their understanding is an infidel.

I’m sick tired of hearing the Media and the World blame Israel. Terrorists can’t have a free pass to kill innocents in the World and they should get the message and Israel’s message to the World is that even though it’s doing everything possible to preserve the life of Palestinians (plus the humanitarian aids) It’s enough of terrorist’s activities killing innocent children and families in Israel.

One can not compromise with terrorism – but rather take action and fight for its very existence. Peace sometimes has to be fought for.

I feel terrible for the innocent in the Palestinian side, but unfortunately, most of them think that it’s okay to kill Israelis by sending rockets. I wish they should have a normal education and normal healthy lives free from the influence of terrorist organizations.

What bothers the world is – Israel does have the right to exist and yes it has the right to defend itself just like any country would.

A quick reflection: Rosh Hashanah vs. secular New Year

2008-12-31T15:57:00.000-08:00

In Western civilizations the last day of December is always an exciting time where people look forward for an unknown new year…

Most people blindly simply celebrate just the fact of watching the change of years on the count down of minutes until midnight. Some start it on drinking and with a big hangover the next day, what a way to start, hum?

In the Traditional Religious Jewish New Year, we pray, pray and pray in awe asking G-d for a good year and there’s no fireworks whatsoever, but the trust in G-d’s ultimate mercy towards our fragile beings.

It’s so interesting that people can endure even the cold in New York to watch a ball drop with millions of other people – celebrating the New Year.

Who of those among the millions last December would know how bad 2008 turned to be in a Global perspective? Now, everyone thinks that in a turn of a magic ball drop everything can turn out different for the better once again…

I really hope things would get better in the long haul for the World – but it takes a lot of effort and it doesn’t happen on the blink of an eye.

I always wished people in general would know that over drinking and acting overly crazy won’t do them any good, but rather causes more harm; of course that many of those drinking probably feel bad about their current transition, therefore they drink.

Why can’t people try to get themselves together and use it as a good excuse to improve themselves?

The bad guys in Dubai cancelled the New Year’s celebrations and fireworks off in solidarity for the “Palestinians cause”…I find it so bizarre that the world finds very plausible.

For most the Jewish world it’s a night like any other – though one has to acknowledge the calendar where one lives.

If most people don’t celebrate the religious Rosh Hashanah – I really wish the world should try to improve itself in 2009…Everything which is good starts from within with self-reflection and prayers.

HAPPY CHANUKAH

2008-12-21T16:32:00.001-08:00

A SHORT CHANUKAH WISH

As we are blessed to reach this special time of the year; when Am Israel recalls the story of CHANUKAH which is a true story that recounts of the victory of the Maccabeus, the rededication of the Temple and miracle of the oil.

Every victorious detail of CHANUKAH was a miracle. From the beginning to the end, story of CHANUKAH portrays a story of HOPE.

Even when all is seems hopeless, time and time again throughout history, we can see that the G-d of Israel is always attentive to the prayers of His people, and ultimately comes to rescue.

We’re fortunate to have pure oils and menorahs and be able to light them to shine. Thus, may the miracles of CHANUKAH not only be a distant memory, but actually be emulated to our present circumstances as a nation and as individuals.

Let our actions of lighting menorahs throughout the world be a reflection of goodwill and sincere prayers to G-D, so that each and everyone may experience CHANUKAH miracles in every way.

Those who need comfort, health, jobs, peace, marriage may find it speedily!

Kol tov! All the best !

YEHUDIT – A HEROINE’S MESSAGE

2008-12-14T19:07:00.000-08:00

A message of Chanukah
By Carine

Nowadays, much is talked about how everyone should “understand” modern day’s assassins of good people, as if there were reasonable appeals for their wicked behavior.

The world has always tried to find a way to blame the victims of atrocities, while defending its murders. So, many people have blamed the very existence of Israel for terrorism per se that it’s beyond belief.

I remember that right after 9/11, I got a call from a “friend” that I used to give foreign language lessons to, and this person told me that the reason of the attack was America’s support for Israel. I was shocked to hear such untrue statement.

First of all terrorists have an agenda, they want to destroy everyone that doesn’t agree with their “religion”, point-of-view and hunger for evil and death. They pride themselves as “warriors” who aren’t in love of G-d’s ultimate gift which is LIFE.

These evil doers despise life and their deity is death itself, therefore they hate the idea of freedom for “infidels” in their distorted minds.

When, terrorism was only in Israeli territory, the whole world would give signals that it was Israel’s solely fault! Now, that it’s gone global, the “guilty minded liberal” mentality still seems to point fingers at the victims.

Meanwhile nothing is really done to prevent these horrific actions…After, few weeks of the Mumbai attack where Westerners, Israelis and Jewish people were terribly attacked, the government of Israel releases a “bunch” of perpetrators.

So, here comes a message of Chanukah that’s right on the corner – Yehudit the Jewish heroine, a feminine figure of the miraculous events that happened in Chanukah which illustrates that she was observant, pious, modest, yet charming and beautiful with a strong faith in the G-d of Israel.

This Jewish heroine teaches everyone that she didn’t only pray, but she embraced the mission of cutting off the enemy herself; first of all, she believed that if the Jewish people kept G-d’s commandments, they wouldn’t perish – nevertheless, she took upon herself a mission which in modern time would sound insane!

She prayed to G-d to protect, guide and deliver, thus, she went after Holofernes the Tyrant Syrian-Greek General – she went with a maid, and eventually after stuffing him with her delicious cheese and wine killed him with a sword by herself!

I’m not saying in anyway, that women or men should take “vengeance” matters on their own hands, but, into certain extent we must fight to cut off the evil that threaten us.

Governments shouldn’t be sleeping, thinking that the taking of one innocent life is fine, when it’s not; the blood of the innocent is crying out to G-d.

Women and men alike should take into consideration that we must trust in G-d, thus, put on armours of righteousness. Gentlemen should be working on being “good” and “loving” husbands to their wives and vise versa. Parents should be really compassionate with their children, and when these are wrong, shouldn’t be pat, but instructed with love, and daughters and sons should be compassionate towards their parents as well.

In resume, Yehudit the heroine’s story should resonate to Israel and the whole world; miracles do happen, but one has to do their part – we can’t close our eyes to the barbaric killings of innocent and say that it’s okay. No, it’s not okay, we must exclaim in words and in actions NOT to release the evil doers, but rather cut off the evil among us.

Teenage Holocaust Victim's Diary Revealed For First Time!

2008-12-11T19:24:00.001-08:00

I had to share this beautiful touching video about another teenager called Rutka who had a diary about the war and secured it with a non-Jewish friend.
It's worthy watching, so that everyone in the world shoudn't close their eyes to such atrocities.
I don't mean to be posting sad things, but it's an interesting story - We should know the truth and see the light at the end of the tunnel.

RIGHTEOUSNESS IN THE BLINK OF DARKNESS

2008-12-11T14:38:00.000-08:00

A lesson of life

By Carine

We have recently watched a righteous among the nations save the life of a little baby from the hands of terrorists in Mumbai – Sandra Samuel, the incredible nanny risked her life in order to save little Moishe. Miraculously, G-d has placed this heroine in little Moishe’s life.

We have no doubts that Moishe’s own mother gave her own life up for saving her precious baby Moishe; Rivka Holtzberg probably did everything to secure her baby and in despair called for Sandra’s help.

The super righteous non-Jewish nanny didn’t think twice to save his life. The fact that we can still see righteous people’s outstanding actions in the blink of darkness throughout history is comforting.

Not long ago, the world has found out about stories of righteous people who went out of their way during the holocaust to save in particular the lives of Jewish children; these non-Jewish heroes risked their lives, because they followed a conscious and didn’t feel intimidated by cruel tyrants who imposed torture and death penalty upon those who helped Jews.

Just recently, we came to know about the existence of such heroes like Sir Nicholas Winton and Irena Sendler, a polish catholic nurse that was able to save 2.500 Jewish children – most of those children that Mrs. Sendler saved were placed in non-Jewish homes, nevertheless she dug up a jar containing the children’s real family names, so that after the war, they could look for their real families. Some children were lucky enough to have a relative alive, others ended up adopted.

Mrs.Sendler’s story demonstrates an emotional and encouraging attitude in the midst of darkness. Even though, she was nominated in 2007 for a Nobel Prize – she didn’t get, instead Al Gore got it! Not long ago, she passed away.

Recently, many Jewish survivors saved in Poland are finding out about their Jewish ancestry, since they went through the horrors of the War and afterwards communism.

All righteous people should be honored and receive everyone’s reverence – of course, we all must act righteously; and the world would be a much better place if all people acted upon it, yet, those who do so – should receive our respect and honor.

Many current heroes are not known - yet, through their good deeds the world is saved everyday. The Holtzbergs were also heroes in Mumbai, serving and saving the spiritually hungry, and because of that were killed.

We must follow their examples, even if it’s not easy, and most of the times real heroes are forgotten and didn’t even get a Nobel Prize; we must give honor for the righteous heroes but – the more people joining in righteousness and chessed in the blink of darkness – more light will break the force of darkness.

Source about Irena Sendler: http://hmturnerfoundation.org/html/artjar.html;

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irena_Sendler ;

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jZSu00RN2wk&watch_response

http://www.irenasendlerfilm.com/

http://www1.yadvashem.org/righteous_new/sendlerova.html

Irena Vs. Al Gore: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OVw1PANUcdg&feature=related#

Other righteous among the Nations: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0zoh6y8TX3M&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d7xxS8VqZ9E

POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION IN THE JEWISH COMMUNITY

2008-12-10T14:23:00.000-08:00

The importance of prevention and treatment - reaching for help

By Carine

Postpartum depression (PPD) also known as postnatal depression affects a large amount of women after giving birth to a child – yet many people are unaware of its symptoms and serious risks.

Many new mothers might experience a variety of emotions after childbirth; some may experience anxiety, excitement, others baby blues; but, some will experience a more severe sadness which is known as postpartum depression.

The matter of the fact is that it’s a very serious issue; and it should be taken with lots of precaution – especially in the Frum Jewish community - as the higher the birth rate in a community is, the higher are the chances of that group of women experience postpartum depression.

The percentage of risk in the Frum community is really high and many young couples aren’t familiar with the challenges of parenthood, and when facing the intricacies of human care, it can be too overwhelming.

Besides the devastating sufferings originated from PPD; many Frum women might feel guilty, embarrassed and ashamed to reach out for proper professional help.

Undoubtedly, Frum mothers bear full responsibilities to bring loving and healthy children up and therefore this overwhelming task can trigger easily new mothers into postpartum depression – causing a lot of suffering to families and especially husbands who don’t know how to handle the situation.

We all know the important role that Jewish mothers play to the very continuity of the Jewish Nation – the “Yiddish Mama” is the pillar of every generation – so, from this perspective itself, we all should be aware of how challenging this role can be for new mothers and in general to mothers of many young children!

Frum women shouldn’t feel embarrassed, in other words, they should reach for the proper help; be it as prevention or a treatment.

That’s why by realizing the great challenges and importance of the health of Jewish women – Esther Kenigsberg in a selfless mission to help the community has founded a non profit organization in the heart of Borough Park called SPARKS dedicated to help mothers and their families with awareness, relief, knowledge and support.

Sparks is made up of mostly Frum volunteers and highly qualified doctors who are well trained to help Jewish families overcome the obstacle of childbearing depression and secure the health, happiness, joy and the most important of all the continuity of the Jewish Nation.

Sparks organization’s mitzvah is enormous and plays a decisive role in the lives of our community members – that’s why in times of darkness, let us see the obstacles and fight it with the right weapon of chessed.

Due to their dedication to help their fellow brethren, regardless of affiliation, level of Yiddishkeit and social status, is the reason that I write about their mission.

If you are not aware of postpartum depression symptoms, risks and complications you can check SPARKS’s website: http://sparkscenter.org/about.htm - Thus, if you know somebody that is suffering, don’t be shy and contact them. If possible, you can also donate for this cause, since it’s a cause that involves the very birth of Jewish souls.

Ps: By clicking on this text tittle, you will be redirected to their informative website.

A WORLD WAR II HERO – NICHOLAS WINTON

2008-12-08T13:16:00.001-08:00

Meditating on how can we really be alive

Here goes a small video documentary of one not so known hero of the World War II, his own wife didn’t know that he had helped thousands of Jewish children to escape the horror in the Slovak Republic. His name is Nicholas Winton – during the war, he was visiting Slovak and witnessed the fear of Jewish families; and thought about a manner of helping Jewish children move out of there.

So, he arranged a manner to get them in England. I can’t imagine how hard it might have been for the parents to let them go, even on the break of extermination.

This good man helped to save thousands of children…it’s worthy looking up the video. It’s touching and moving to see that Baruch Hashem, some innocent children were saved from the barbarian camps.

It’s very touching to see that those children had children and are alive and well, and that Mr. Winton had a significant part on that; but I hope that their grandchildren never forget that their ancestors went through such persecution because monsters wanted to exterminate the Jewish Nation.

Therefore, besides escaping alive and sharing their beautiful story – I hope that they may maintain Jewish tradition, so that the Jewish Nation so much tormented may flourish more and more and keep growing in numbers, spiritually and materially.

That’s the way to surface the death of millions – through passing from generation to generation the beauty of the tradition of Am Israel, otherwise our enemies win. We should think about it.

That’s why I think Chabad is doing an excellent job in telling everyone that the only way we can fight the action of terror is with adding more light unto our very lives.

By Carine

MEETING A NAZI’S DESCENDANT

2008-12-07T17:31:00.000-08:00

A meditation on the challenge of choosing life’s paths

In this last week edition of the Jewish Press, there’s an article by Elliot Resnick, a reporter staff who wrote about a challenging task that a Holocaust survivor took upon herself: Meet the daughter of a former Nazi commander called Goeth; as the daughter of the Nazi called Helen Jonas out that she desired to meet her.

Now, after 60 years of the horrendous Holocaust tragedy they met in Poland; the meeting is going to be portrayed as a documentary airing on TV. I’m not so sure how genuine the documentary is going to be, but if it really is – it’s probably a story that catches attention due to its implication.

I’m aware that there are few descendents of Nazi commanders that even converted to Judaism and happened to give speeches; but this seems a different case, the daughter whose name is Monika Hertwig was willing to meet Mrs. Jonas who was saved by the real famous hero Schindler ( Schindler’s list by Spielberg) during World war II.

What would cause a daughter of a Nazi look forward to meeting a Holocaust survivor who used to live in her father’s village? Would it be due to a sense of trying to distance herself from the image of her father? Mrs.Hertwig only found out about her father's past either at the age of 11 or 13.

I think the whole curiosity itself involving the story is the reason to film a documentary. Should we blame a daughter of a Nazi for the behavior of her father? Whatever one may conclude about the complexity of this fact; she probably has to bear the fact of being connected with her father.

Human beings in general are judged in society by our family branches, because we happen to carry their DNA, whether good or bad. Nevertheless, every individual has their personal “marks” and personality character – though there might be tendencies.

When, one’s ancestors are good loving people, we hope to see that their descendants are going to be good and hopefully surface their Mitzvot. Yet, throughout the whole Torah we see all kinds of mixed cases.

As Torah describes some brothers acted good and some bad to name a few: Cain vs. Abel (good), Jacob vs. Esau (wicked) and what about Korach’s sons that not only didn’t agree with their own father’s wickedness, even endured the shame of being Korach’s son and they totally separated themselves from their wickedness's influence and were able to compose inspirational Psalms (Tehilim) to G-d due to their desire to reach higher divine levels.

What about the opposite path of Absalom? Having as a father the righteous David HaMelech( king David) chose the wrong path.

Korach’s sons chose the right path, removing themselves from the evil influence of their father; so how much easier it should be for all of us to reach higher grounds and win the battle of evil we face?

In regards to Mrs. Hertwig, we should consider that the fact that she wants to dialogue with a Jewish survivor may proof that she’s trying to expel herself from the darkness of her father’s ideology.

In resume, whatever the case of a person might be there's a choice; in the case of the Jewish nation - we must emulate the ultimate goodness of our forefathers Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

By Carine

The trailer of the documentary:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fGAJpE3LOhs

Jewish Press article about the encounter: http://www.jewishpress.com/pageroute.do/37366/Holocaust_Survivor_M.html

Ps: P.O.V will be streaming film until January at http://www.pbs.org/pov/pov2008/inheritance/fullfilm.html - if you click on the title you can be redirected to the streaming video.

GUN - A JEWISH PROTECTION ?

2008-12-06T22:21:00.000-08:00

Hold on to guns in a Shabbat?

I had never thought about Jewish people having to carry a gun…and especially on Shabbat, but as terrorism is going Jew hunting all over these days, and after the Mumbai attack, I read an article in the India times stating that an Indian Jewish police officer happened to carry a gun on the Shabbat following the attack – regardless of any complication of Jewish law, due to the unknown course of matters.

I got curious about the issue and researched a little bit of such controversial issue involving Jews and guns. I particularly never ever dreamed of even thinking about it, but, noticing the vulnerability of many Jewish people in war zone areas or nowadays, just the fact of being alive, any western is a target.

Then, I came to realize that in Eretz Israel many Yehudim are allowed to carry guns on Shabbos , since it’s a matter of life safety – but, in order to do so they have to put it attached to their belts, and when in shul put it aside. For me, just to imagine such a reality is trembling enough, you probably have to be double careful in every step in every way.

Honestly it’s a confusing matter for me, but for many, especially in Israel it’s a reality; the world is becoming more and more dangerous, but would a gun save the life of those in the chabad house in Mumbai?

It’s hard for me to ponder whether a gun would save anyone’s life; first of all each case is different, but in general owning a gun requires lots more of responsibility 24/7. In many cases, people who aren’t prepared and trained happen to kill a loved one, partners, and relatives accidently or purposely willing do so, besides that some depressed person or mentally challenged person due to suicidal feelings could take their lives easily having a gun at hand.

The question rises when genuinely people become targets, like most Jews in Israel who need to get proper training and then get their guns on. Now, in the Mumbai case, the better option would have been that the Chabad house should have proper security system, security guards (well trained), safe locks, camera circuit and other equipments to facilitate the security of our Jewish brethren who selflessly engaged in the Mitzvah of caring for their fellow.

If some rabbis should get guns, honestly they should get proper training and before that get tested of capable of doing so. I have no doubts that Rabbi Gabi Holtzberg would have being able to handle it in a wise manner.

Nevertheless, we must acknowledge that having a gun many times doesn’t mean safety, but in a wrong hand can cause more harm and cause more risk.

I used to be in favor of gun control, but now, I came to think that most “bad guys” own guns and know how to use it to do evil; so, why not give a chance of good people who get good training have a chance of using it with wisdom for self-defense.

The times are not good and in America guns selling are increasing due to insecurity of all sorts. But learning how to shoot can be very expensive – in Israel it happens to be very affordable and there are several schools as seen at this site http://caliber3.webads.co.il .

It’s complicated to see such reality. I wouldn’t judge at such times, when unfortunately terrorism is dominant. I just hope and pray that the Jewish people shouldn’t need to be afraid; but, I think that we must make sure our homes have proper secure locks, windows and etc, and hope we won’t have to be counting on guns for our very lives, but on Hashem, our keeper.

I hope and pray all Israel enemies be scattered and we see the day that no Jewish person in Israel and in the world will ever have to worry about having to load a gun on Shabbat and weekday too!

Ps: As I just finished writing this text – I check an e-mail saying that the hottest bump sticker on the market now reads: I will keep my guns, freedom & money…You can keep the“change”!http://www.discountbookdistributors.com/illkeepmygunsbumpersticker.aspx

I guess it gives me more thoughts on the matter.

By Carine

DNA – CONFIRMS IBERIAN PENINSULA JEWISH ANCENSTRY

2008-12-04T21:13:00.000-08:00

JEWISH DNA LIVES ON

Most Jewish people were already aware of the consequences of the inquisition, and that great part of the population of Spain and Portugal of the time who didn’t flee – had to convert or die.

The Jewish world is mostly composed by Sephardic and Ashkenazy Jews; we all know that most Sephardic origins come from families expelled from the Iberian Peninsula.

Now, many people from that region were probably unaware of their Jewish inheritance; actually a lot of them may have thought that since their families were there for hundreds of years – they were for sure native Spaniards and Portuguese…

Yet, for their surprise the genetic research lead by scientists Mark A. Jobling of the University of Leicester in England and Francesc Calafell of the Pompeu Fabra University in Barcelona reveals the truth that there was indeed a great level of “forced” conversion on the Jewish population that remained there.

The DNA study was based on the Y chromosome of Jewish men of several Sephardic migrating Jewish communities and it confirmed that this Chromosome Y remained from father to son.

Therefore, the scientists through this study reveal not only that 20% of the population of the Iberian Peninsula has Sephardic blood and only 11% of Moorish ancestry. It also confirms that the historical event of Inquisition wasn’t a Jewish invention. It really took place, hurting the Jewish nation as whole and leaving scars on those persecuted families that fled and some still lucky even “ converting” were able to disregard their forced conversion and pass on their Jewish heritage as a miracle.

In short, the Jewish nation has always undergone many challenges: exiles, inquisitions, persecutions, holocaust, anti-Semitism and recently terrorism. Yet, it has proved its strength to survive through it all. One example is that a lot of crypt-Jews are returning to its roots and that the Jewish DNA lives on.

Here goes a link of a video showing it - long before the scientist's confirmation...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zoeQtKzmZ1I&feature=related

By Carine Silberstein

OUR FREEDOM UNDER THREAT

2008-12-04T11:09:00.000-08:00

THREATS WITHIN THE COUNTRY

We have just witnessed the cruelty of these trained terrorists who got into India by boat from Pakistan – ruining any sense of security for the people in India and its jewish people.

Now, what many people are not aware is that a lot of these terrorist minded people have immigrated to the USA, they marry just anybody in order to obtain permanent visas and right away become US. Citizens.

Most of Islamic terrorists have exploited every kind of Immigration visas from temporary, business, student, green card holders and full US. Citizens; they marry for obtaining visas and have relatives here, according to US Immigration.

So, how secure are we? How come these people always get whenever they want, and nobody stops them? They get here and have all the “human rights” protection and make demands. I wish it was just a bad nightmare fabricated from my mind, but, unfortunately it’s the bitter reality.

If you google it – you will be surprise to read some much information about it…Everyone knows that the 9/11 terrorist used “temporary visas”, yet there are many inside the US who are citizens…So, what can be done to undo this terrible harm?

Just now, as I checked Foxnews site channel – I faced an article there, which for many reasons doesn’t surprise me.

In Minneapolis area, USA, there are many of such people who are US. Citizens and are at this very moment being trained by terrorists agencies which I don’t want to even mention its name. The story goes that all of the sudden the men population of this area, disappeared! And now everyone is concerned that they are really training in Somalia!

They even took a picture of one of these “US citizens” men in the training camp, isn’t it outrageous? The fact is, what must the US do in order to keep its security, once the terrorist has gotten all excess?

They get into Israel, India the USA…everywhere in the name of “understanding” and that their religion is peaceful…I’m sorry I don’t buy it. If it were, then, there wouldn’t be one “religious” fanatic killing.

What can we do now, that’s the question? Is it G-d forbid only a matter of time? We must pray to G-d that the Government should open its eyes, and the West society should realize the threat within.

By Carine

sources:http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/news/701154/posts#exploited
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,461865,00.html

Mumbai Tragedy - a wake up call...

2008-12-03T14:09:00.000-08:00

FAITH AMIDST TRAGEDIES

It’s terrible to see so much pain and death caused by this terrorist attack in Mumbai, India; it’s been hard for me not to take it personally. Seeing that selfless people suffer most of the times more than any other is very hard to comprehend.

I ache for all those that lost loved ones in this terrible assault: Indians, Westerners of any nationality, Israelis and Jews.

But, the death of Rabbi Gavriel Noach Holtzberg and his wife Rivka is a total representation of the peril times we live in and the contrast of the couple's good deeds – they were simply there for Ahavat Israel. They opened their hearts and house for all those in need, regardless of religion association or level of Yidishkeit.

How hard it is to give and most of the times, nothing in return receive in a humanistic perspective? But, empowered by an everlasting love for G-d and his ultimate good, they knew that only Ahavat Israel can bring the ultimate redemption.

At times like this, we might wonder, but how could G-d let this happen? First of all, it's not up to us to question our faith and sense of justice before the Almighty, who is righteous above all.

Yet, as humans we wonder. People always ask how come G-d allowed this or that. The fact of the matter is there is free will and each person is responsible for their own acts.

When the first murderer of humanity Cain killed his brother Abel who was a shepherd of sheep; G-d asked Cain where his brother was, and his reply was that he didn’t know, since he wasn’t his brother’s keeper ?

G-d responded: What have you done? Hark! Your brother’s blood cries out to me from the ground! And then, the Almighty G-d cursed Cain (Bereshit/Genesis 4:8).

Even before the killing, G-d himself told Cain that if he did right, there would be uplift, but if he wouldn’t do right, than sin would urge towards him.

As we can see, G-d had first paid heed to Abel and his offering – and due to his good work, he was killed. Thus, due to Abel’s righteousness, his blood cried out to G-d, and Cain was cursed.

So, people are countable responsible for their evil actions, even when it seems that they aren’t. There’s a true Judge that runs the Heavenly courts and give his verdicts.

The death of righteous people is very difficult in the Almighty’s eyes. He certainly suffers to see that mankind chooses evil. Yet, several times miracles happen and righteous people are spared.

In this particular case and in other cases as well, it shows that the world was not worthy of such unselfish people like the Rabbi and his wife – paradoxically, if there were more people with such love and sense of faith towards G-d, mostly like we wouldn’t have to see so much tragedy.

In resume, their unconditional love should inspire all of us – their death is a loud cry for more love for your fellow and a wake up call for those that seem only compassionate with terrorist’s ideologies. It’s a call of wakening to the West civilization, to democratic countries and for Jewish communities to unite and heed to G-d’s call for us to choose to do more good, until all evil is eradicated from our path.

Carine Silberstein

A poem due to the tragedy in mumbai

2008-12-03T12:31:00.000-08:00

B”H

(SMALL QUICK AND LOW PROFILE POEM)

PAIN AT THE CORE OF MY HEART

This pain that I feel is so deep in my heart,

So many tragedies that I don’t know how to start,

Besides having my own problems and difficulties set apart,

Being vulnerable to crying without a stop part,

Finding that innocent were stuck in a terrifying place,

Brought me to more prayers and crying without any embrace,

Thus, the terrible outcome – append to this world more disgrace;

Until when – I cry to the Almighty one – until when?!

Please say, soon will the pain be over – Amen,

I can’t see so much death and pain all over again and again.

Merciful and Holy G-d, the creator of us all,

Please, don’t cause the righteous to fall,

Rather, kindness, love and compassion for those suffering recall,

Causing real love to flourish in truth and restore us to stand tall.

Carine Silberstein ©

GRIEVING FOR THE INNOCENT IN MUMBAI

2008-11-29T22:43:00.000-08:00

Peril times

Few hours after I wrote about peril times and the importance of being together; the evil fanatic terrorists were acting on in India. It’s very sad to find out what was happening, and yet to see more and more disgrace. As soon as I found out the news I started praying; even before I knew what was about to happen in the Chabad house there I had passed e-mails for praying for the shluchim there.

It’s not surprising that terrorists do whatever they want anywhere and get it with a pass, as the Western society is sleepy. The terrorists attacked Indian citizens, Westerners tourists and aimed at Israelis and Jews – at this time, what was their excuse and what will the mainstream bias media blame?

It’s an unspeakable tragedy on India and its people. Yet, I doubt that much will be done against those who planned such attacks.

I spent the whole Thursday and Friday morning reciting Psalms (Tehilim) waiting for news and when the news came, it was a sad one. It saddens me tremendously to see that selfless people like Rabbi Gavriel Noach and his wife Rivka Holtzberg who were there to spread a meaningful life and light, happened to become martyrs.

We see that their lives will motivate more kindness and love towards everyone, yet, in my humble opinion, we should echo in prayers that the Western Society should awake from its sleep.

The truth is, that the West must acknowledge that it’s under threat, sure we must be good, and do more, pray more and ask G-d for wisdom at such peril times. I had written before the terrorists religion is growing despite all the horror.

So, first and foremost the West should become self-conscious and heed to G-d, instead of taking His name out of places, it should emphasize that in G-d we trust. Thus, in our daily lives we must keep on doing what’s good – refusing to give in to the evil in this World.

The first and foremost important thing is that we must unite and merit that G-d may heed our voices crying for redemption now! Then, all our opponents will be eradicated.

May the Almighty bring His Redemption.

Carine

WE MUST UNITE IN PERIL TIMES

2008-11-26T14:06:00.000-08:00

A call for Ahavat Israel

We are living in peril times. Few people seem to see what’s really happening in the World, and especially in the United States.

The United States has just elected a man that they don’t even know who he is, but chose to do that, supposedly only for the name of a “change” and also for the color of his skin. Therefore, people tend to be ignoring the traits of character, accomplishments and associations.

Discrediting the idea that Dr. Luther King Jr. himself said that he dreamed of a day when people wouldn’t judge for the color of one’s skin. This applies in all aspects. I won’t be going to this very issue, since it’s not the point I’m trying to stretch.

Anyway, what I’m trying to say is that we’re witnessing that people don’t care for life, sound belief in G-d, family values and anything that stands with good.

It should disturb everyone that all this very liberalism is bringing America down. People sympathize with fundamentalist terrorists, yet they hate the evangelical Christians that stand with Israel and the religious Jewish people also. Some even blame Israel for 9/11!

Ignoring the fact that there was a Gulf war before and besides it the very fundamentalists who are so well protected from the mainstream media and Hollywood “starlets” are the same ones that aim to kill all of them for the very fact that they are considered infidels.

So, you may ask what these all have to do with Ahavat Israel. Well, we’re witnessing that the conversion to their religion is growing, even among those who came from very liberal families from all faiths! Jews, Christians, regular Americans. It’s really surprising the numbers.

Thus, here comes our challenge. All Jewish people should be uniting regardless of religious background, education and cultural differences. It’s a real test and we all should pass it for the survival of the Western society.

The belief in the G-d of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob and the inherent good should speak louder than any other difference. The mitzvah (commandment) of love for a fellow must prevail, so that the Jewish nation should overcome any threat of its very essence.

I think that those who unconsciously or consciously carry on the “holier than thou” syndrome, instead of looking down for any sort of reason, should be considerate even more, since if one thinks he “knows” more, than how much more must he understand and love.

Said that, those who also judge the religious people be it Chassidic, Orthodox or any other should know that they are humans themselves and somehow are trying to do their best. And unfortunately many don’t know how to react to people outside the community.

Therefore, it’s not about judging anybody. But reaching out with love and compassion, even when it seems impossible!

Most Jewish organizations should unite together for the sake of dialoguing and growing together, instead of throwing rocks.

I know that I myself have challenges when encountering some ultra-rigid people who stare at me for some reason; yet, that’s the test and call for understanding and also educating everyone that real Ahavat Israel should be sought at all costs.

The same apply for ultra liberals; since the society has turned so liberal itself that they don’t accept anyone that believes in G-d. So, some blame religion and want to ban it for all costs! But, the imposition of anti-religion is fine?! There are flaws in many institutions, but not in the Almighty G-d. Institutions have problems, because they’re made up of imperfect human beings like anyone.

But, Jewish people have a call to try to become better individuals and pass on the light that destroys darkness. All should show compassion and love for all Jewish people and no-Jewish alike. Even, join strength with genuine non-Jewish believers in G-d who love Israel.

Therefore, moral values, education and love for the country and language where one resides are very important issues as well. But, I will not stress it now.

The message here is that we must go out of our own ways to please G-d and eradicate the hatred within oneself first, in order to bring redemption and change the fact that history keeps repeating itself due to the lack of AHAVAT ISRAEL, in other words the love for your fellow! That’s the only key for our success.

Written by Carine

My spicy KOSHER Salmon recipe

2008-11-25T11:58:00.000-08:00

B"H

Hi my dear visitors and friends,

A lot of people who enjoy eating FISH always inquire me how I prepare specially salmon.

I have some different recipes. But, I have created this one myself, as I enjoy creating some dishes sometimes. So, I've named Salmon la Carine...

I usually do this quick style for Friday nights (SHABAT/SABBATH DAY).Nevertheless; you can leave soaking Thursday night to Friday in the refrigerator.

You can use any Salmon cut, but I prefer the boneless fillet style, since I don't want my guests choking before me because of some spine bone.

You can use as much fish as you want depending for how many people you desire to serve.

I mostly use lemon in all my fish recipes, because it keeps fresh and without any odor.

SALMON A LA CARINE

Ingredients:

At least two Salmon fillets

1 half lemon (depending how much fish, add more)

½ cup of water

2 Tbs. chopped garlic or as desired

1 Tbs. of all fish seasoning spices or more if desired

1 tea spoon of preferred pepper

1 tea spoon of paprika

Optional: sprinkle a little coriander

INSTRUCTIONS

Wash the Salmon thoroughly well and remove skin with a knife carefully not to remove the flesh together. Give the quick wash again.

Set the Salmon in a pan or container. With a fork carefully make few holes and add the water, lemon and part of that amount of seasonings. Leave soaking for at least 15 minutes if possible. Meanwhile, preheat the oven at 350 c set to broil.

It can be set for the oven with the marinating sauce, and to make more presentable sprinkle the remaining seasoning directly on the fillets, first the garlic and then the pepper, paprika and all spice fish seasoning. Broil for least 15 minutes, don’t let it get dried!

Right when setting the hot surfaces before Shabbat, place it close to a low flame, then, just to make it hot for the Shabbat table after Kiddush and hand wash.

Enjoy it!

Recipe by Carine Silberstein ©

KOSHER RECIPES

2008-11-24T12:10:00.000-08:00

INFORMATION ABOUT THIS MEAT DISH

I’m posting some Kosher Recipes, and this one in particular is the kosher alternative of a well popular Brazilian style of the French cuisine dish called STROGONOFF. The kosher version of course has a Glat kosher boneless chuck roll cut in pieces and there’s no dairy sauce whatsoever obviously.

The chuck roll beef is a great source of animal protein in someone’s diet, and besides it whoever wants to keep the weight and health it’s an excellent red meat, since when taken the fat out, it’s slim and has great value of proteins, vitamins and minerals and helps to prevent anemia, since it’s a good source of iron.

MEAT STROGONOFF
1,1 lb of boneless chuck beef cut in small cubits

2 Table spoon of vegetable oil

1 (optional – I don’t like onion, and use pressed garlic) big chopped onion

1 tea spoon of sal (optional)

1 Tbs. of ketchup

1 Tbs of vinegar

1 Tbs of sugar (optional to put)

1 Tbs of tomato sauce (I put much more…And you can use real fresh pressed tomatoes)

½ Nutmeg

Syrian pepper and cinnamon as you may desire

0,66 lb of cooked mushrooms

1 Tbs of flour

2 Tbs of mayonnaise or 1/3 cup coconut milk or soy milk (parve)

INSTRUCTIONS

Cook the meat in the oil until dried, add the seasonings; cover with water and cook (preferably in a steaming pan) for 20 minutes until soft.

Mix the flour with ½ cup of water; add to the pan with the mushrooms and cook for more 5 minutes.

When serving, mix the mayonnaise or coconut milk or soy milk [w1] .

Ps: You could alternate using chicken ( cut in small pieces) also!

I HOPE YOU LIKE IT !

[w1]This recipe is my English version from the Brazilian Portuguese Kosher recipe of Sheila Sasson from the recipe book : Kasher com prazer.
The soy milk is also what I mostly use in America, as the coconut milk might be slightly more difficult to find in Brooklyn stores.

short real story

2008-11-23T12:07:00.000-08:00

Funny & Real Story

My husband went to a grocery to buy some goodies and while waiting on the line to ring the items up at the register, he heard a lady next to him exclaim in a loud voice to the cashier: - That’s it; I’m finished!

So, as my husband is usually playful he exclaimed back: - What?! Did you say that you’re finished?! Don’t say that! Don’t say that! G-d Forbid, please, you can’t say that!

Then, the lady answered back in astonishment: - Ah, what, what? What’s the problem?!

He said to her again: - Please, just don’t say you’re finished! G-d forbid, you’re not finished, you’re not dead!

She in amazement replied: Oh, you mean that…Yes, yes, you’re right!

My husband exclaimed back: - Please, always say that you’ve finished with your ORDER or shopping, but never say that you ARE finished! You still have a lot to live for!

Then, the lady concluded: - Yes, that’s right! Thank you for reminding me. In this case, she turned to the cashier: - I’m not finished, yet!

Carine Silberstein ©

BEAUTY HINTS

2008-11-23T10:47:00.000-08:00

BEAUTY HINTS

Every teenager and woman are always looking for the best ways to keep a beautiful skin that looks clean, clear, smooth and soft…

It’s like an eternal job for the entire female world; as most regular “gals” I’ve always taken upon myself to do whatever it took to always keep a good healthy skin.

Most teenagers have to struggle to overcome the challenge of blemishes, and I’ve always had the oily/dry combination skin, yet through a lot of care and patience, one can achieve the goal of reaching a good conditioned skin.

Even, during my rough years of long hours of study I would reserve time for my own skin…Even, my teachers would joke that there wasn’t one day that I didn’t have some make up on! It’s going to be three years since my graduation and the challenge just grows, as other things in life just get even more challenging.

Therefore, one of the best ways to start on this home beauty process is selecting the best suitable products for your skin. If you can’t figure it out by yourself or you are not sure what your skin type is. Then, you’d rather check with dermatologist or a skin professional.

But, assuming that you have an idea what your skin type and needs are, as if you can clearly notice the oily/blemishes aspect or the breakdown or lines of a dried skin, you should start the process of selecting the best products or home made possibilities…

Having in mind that it’s equally important to have a balanced diet and try to get rid of the grease! And it’s very important to drink a lot of water, even if it means more visits to the bathroom. Thus, taking some extra vitamin C & E, helps a million!

In resume, sticking to the program of washing the face (with an appropriate product), you can even make some homemade scrubs! Note that it’s very important to exfoliate your skin.

In this process, moisturize your skin with a lotion that contains some sunscreen, then, if you prefer it could have some tint (instead of make up) or after dried apply your make up as usual.

At night you should wash all make up off and apply a night time moisturizer! The night is the key to keep one’s skin young and firm!

Once a week or as needed you should get some microdermabration (available at pharmacies), and you also once a week or as needed use some kind of mask either a homemade one or a mask like mud mineral seaweed mask, it all depends how much your skin needs it. But, works miracles!
The same concept of exfoliation and hydration goes for your body also.

And be ready to reveal your inner beauty on your face!

WRITTEN BY
Carine Silberstein ©

Here goes some HOMEMADE BEAUTY RECIPES:

HOMEMADE EXFOLIATOR RECIPE
2 heaped tsp fine oatmeal
1 tsp.baking soda.Mix the ingredients, and add sufficient water to make a spread. Apply to your skin and gently rub. Rinse and gently touch with a towel to dry.

Refreshing Orange Scrub
This recipe is by Noreen Finneran "Incredible Edible Spa"
1/2 of an Orange
4 T Cornmeal
Directions: Squeeze orange juice and pulp into a bowl and add the cornmeal. Mix into a paste.
For using it: Apply onto freshly washed face and body. Gently scrub for 2-3 minutes. Rinse, tone, moisturize.

HONEY MASK
You can just pat on your face Honey and wait about some 10 to 15 minutes. Honey is a natural moisturizer and tightens and firms pores.

WELCOMING VISITORS

2008-11-20T11:56:00.000-08:00

I would like to welcome all my friends to my blog where most of my personal beliefs/opinions and judgements might be expressed within the frame of gratitude of free speech, in other words, acknowledging the fact that freedom is a responsibility itself and not a pass for unlawful behaviours. As it could be said that the right of an individual ends when the other person starts, therefore people should NOT be preaching hatred, since that goes against the very nature of freedom.

I wish people should reflect more upon freedom's responsibilities rather than misusing it.

Nevertheless, as it's my blog, I intend to post a range of my opinions in general, law,beauty tips, cooking recipes, poems, short stories, Jewish religious issues and share thoughts. So, if anyone, wants to engage in a healthy reasonable and respectful dialogue, than that's the way to go!

So based on the freedom thought, what do you think is freedom and do you agree with me that's it's very concept is being taken for granted ?

POEM WRITTEN BY ME

2008-11-20T10:45:00.000-08:00

WANDERING GALS

Here and there gals wander around to nowhere,

How and when you ask me in glare!

In trouble-times like this, let me explain to those that stare,

First of all we good or bad are all walking on the air,

The financial institutions scramble in a blare,

The stock markets keep crashing to lay us all bare.

The wandering gals just endlessly wander in wonder,

As for suspicious interviews they happen to blunder,

Noticing not that they were deceived by a plunder!

The wandering nice gals just want to make ends meet,

Striving for the soul and body’s wheat,

Yet, here goes more election and corruption deceits?!

The world seems in tuned to Wall Street.

Some lost wandering gals believe in some politician’s vision,

Forgetting this could bring even more collision,

Where is the Founding Father’s vision of precision?

Some wandering gals refuse to believe in fail,

They shout out do not wail,

Even if in the holidays you can’t go to a sale,

We’re humans and united must strive to prevail!

WRITTEN BY Carine Silberstein ©