Category Archives: Judaism

Move the American Embassy to Jerusalem? YES!

After endless years of delays, hand-wringing and the broken promises of multiple Presidents, there is renewed talk that the American embassy will finally be relocated from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem by the Trump administration. (The history of these negotiations could fill volumes. This article provides a fine overview.)

Few issues are more dear to my heart, and that of every Zionist. If I had my way, it would be moved immediately. Such a significant step would prove that the U.S. is willing to officially recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, legitimizing the settlements, and hopefully putting to rest any possible idea of splitting the territory. (I’m 100% against making Jerusalem into a divided capital.)

Naysayers claim that the relocation will anger the Arab community and create more violence. Such a claim is meaningless when every single day Israel has to fight for survival from terrorists and extremists!

Moving the embassy, like everything that occurs in Israel, is political. Clinton, Bush, and Obama were worried about the fallout. Trump and Netanyahu don’t care about the critics. Let’s hope those two can work together as friends, building what should be a rock-solid relationship, and do what could’ve been done decades ago!

 

Do you support moving the Embassy?

Actress Leah Gottfried: Balancing Religion & Hollywood

Is it possible for an Orthodox Jewish lady to have a successful career in Hollywood? According to Leah Gottfried, it’s possible, but very challenging. She recently shared her personal experience, trying to balance the two, and often feeling unwelcome in both communities, stating: “I felt rejected. Rejected by the people of my faith who told me it wasn’t possible to be an Orthodox actor. Rejected by a Hollywood system that gave me that same message. And yet I loved both worlds and couldn’t imagine living my life in just one of them.”

While her experience is unique, everyone can relate to not fitting in, longing for a dream job that seems unattainable, and dealing with countless naysayers. Because of her beauty, talent and determination, Leah has been able to carve out her own path while staying true to her faith. Not only does she act, write, produce and direct, she created Soon By You, a comedic web series—which I’ve blogged about before—that centers on young Orthodox Jews dating in NYC.

Leah is living proof that one can be religious and have a career in the secular world, without compromising their ideals. Very inspirational!

Easy Star of David Crafting Project

Want a Jewish crafting project that doesn’t require a lot of skill? Try this Star of David paper lantern. It’s labeled as a Hanukkah Lantern, but I think it would be perfect year-round. By using the template and following the easy instructions, even I could assemble it without a problem (I’m at the beginner level!) The kids also seemed to enjoy it.

Jewish Women’s Theatre

Anyone in Southern California—and those who travel to that area—have to check out the Jewish Women’s Theatre in Santa Monica. I first learned about this awesome organization from a reader named Denise. According to her, they have live performances, art shows, events/classes, and periodic Shabbat services.

Personally, I LOVE watching plays. There are lots of good shows here in the Boston area, but nothing specifically for Jewish ladies. In addition to the creative aspect, it would be a wonderful opportunity to network with likeminded people. So cool!