Hosting Passover for the first time, or just need a reminder on how to create a Seder plate? Interfaith Family has a complete guide and a video tutorial that will be very helpful. They’ve included the traditional version (what I do) and the modern version which features unique additions like orange, chocolate, artichokes, and olives.

Dealing with Anti-Semitism is an unfortunate reality for most Jews, but when it comes from within your own community, it’s mind blowing!

Yes, I’m referring to the so-called Jewish Voice for Peace, a misguided—and some would say dangerous—group that promotes anti-Israeli policies like dismantling settlements, boycotts, and divestment. While those silly ideas are shared by many others, it’s hard to accept fellow Jews calling Israel an “apartheid state worse than South Africa.” (Seriously, have these folks studied history? That’s pure fantasy.)

JVP is comprised of notable Israel haters like playwright Tony Kushner, author Naomi Klein, and MIT professor Noam Chomsky—all of whom have been associated with the despicable Free Gaza Movement. {FGM created an anti-Semitic video entitled “Zionists Ran the Holocaust and the Concentration Camps.” Absolutely despicable, I know!}

In addition to spreading their poison online, they have protested outside of an AIPAC meeting and disrupted a speech given by Prime Minister Netanyahu at the Jewish General Assembly.

While I accept that there is always going to be disagreement within the Jewish community, I think JVP has moved into the territory of becoming a hate group. As such, they should not be invited to participate in public spaces, particularly college campuses where impressionable youngsters will be targeted.

Respectful discussion and dialogue is healthy and good, promoting misinformation and spreading hate is bad. I, like the overwhelming majority of Jews, disagree with everything JVP stands for. I don’t consider them the opposition; instead, I recognize them for what they are: the baffling and shameful phenomenon known as self-hating Jews.

Those of use who are proud to be Jewish, who love Israel, and want to ensure a future for the Jewish community must speak out about difficult topics like these. I truly don’t like to criticize others, but something this offensive can’t be condoned.

Should there ever be limits placed on medical procedures? I’ve been pondering this idea since I heard about the woman who received the first uterus transplant.

While I’ve never dealt with infertility, I know so many women whose lives have been consumed by it (sometimes to the point of depression, divorce, and even bankruptcy). Having a child is such a strong urge for most women; when it’s not possible naturally, doctors can help with drugs, IVF, and other things that have been proven safe. Judaism acknowledges the importance of assisted reproduction and allows it, but we really need to stress the word “safe.” What’s not safe, evidently, is a uterus transplant. At least not yet—the transplant already failed!

I have so much compassion for this lady and her struggle. I’ve never walked in her shoes and I don’t judge her actions. Personally, though, I would never do it. To her, it represented the ultimate hope and gift. For me, it seems like Frankenstein science on par with cloning, gender selection, and other gray areas.

Does carrying a baby inside your body make you a mother? I don’t think so! Ask any woman who’s adopted or used a surrogate and they’d agree. Love is what makes the parent-child connection, not just genetics. There are thousands of children, after all, who are in need of a good home. Yes, biology does play a role, and nobody should deny that, but it shouldn’t be the only factor.

I’m curious how other ladies feel. Do you think it’s ethical or too risky?

Jewish, female, and unmarried? Guess what, you’re not alone! In the non-Orthodox community, there are record numbers, especially for those in their 30’s and 40’s, according to a new article in The Forward.

While most women are delaying marriage so they can pursue an education/career and plan to marry later in life, it’s not always possible to find the right match when you’re finally ready to settle down. A smaller, but still sizeable, group has no interested in tradition, and are single by choice.

I think there’s nothing wrong with staying single and I applaud this article for encouraging society to stop defining folks by their relationship status. Marriage and family life can be wonderful for those who desire it, but it shouldn’t be assumed or forced on those who have other interests. If a woman chooses a career over a child, that doesn’t make her weird or crazy. It just makes her unique!