When I was a newlywed I joined a book club and met an interesting couple. They were a couple decades older than I, wealthy, intelligent, interesting. About three years into the club I was sitting in their lovely garden and Risa said to me, “The book club saved my marriage.” I was startled. “It did? …
Read More »Relationships
Finding a Rabbi for Your Wedding
Of the many kinds of calls that I get, couples seeking a rabbi for their wedding is at the very top of the reasons list. The caller is more frequently a woman, whether she is Jewish or not. It could be because the woman is usually planning the wedding day, but I believe it is…
Read More »What! No Chuppah?!
What! No chuppah?! Did you (or will you) get married this week? We are making history this week! If you are one of the hundreds of LGBT couples who tied the knot this week, or are planning to, I want to wish you a Mazel Tov! But don’t stop there – if you want a…
Read More »Jewish community in America
What is Jewish community in America? One of the confusing things about Jewish community is the feel of it – it’s different from mainstream American community. For folks who aren’t Jewish it can seem to make sense that Jews are different – even if they can’t quite put their finger on why. But for American…
Read More »Women in Interfaith Relationships
Women in Interfaith Relationships: Giving our Kids Roots & Wings Raising kids is hard. You have to be a cook, chauffeur, therapist, private secretary, doctor, and chief bottle washer. And in there you’re supposed to give your kids “roots” and “wings.” Roots: a foundation from which to spring. Wings: confidence & self knowledge. Ours is…
Read More »You are Mine for Now
When my daughter was in kindergarten we had to change schools midyear. I was anxious about bringing my five year old to a new school where all the other kids had bonded. I remember the February morning that I walked into the office of the new school and introduced Elly to the school secretary, Sue….
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