Back to Life, Back to Reality
Anyone remember that song? I don't have a clue what the lyrics are beyond the six words noted above, but I've found myself humming the tune of the song with some trepidation and a lot of excitement.
Those who know me know that I need normalcy, predictability, and consistency. Having a new baby in the home is absolutely wonderful. But, the circus that accompanies it (and I mean circus in the nicest possible way) is anything but normal or predictable. And, it brings no consistency.
When I came back from the hospital, it was like entering another universe. Regular schedules and disciplines were not followed. Already too late bedtimes were hours later. My toddler was completely thrown off during my all too long hospital visit, and he was overwhelmed by the change of routine. He didn't recognize this household any better than I could. From who sat where at the table to who was in charge of the household (apparently him!), things were confusing.
In addition, things had been rearranged and finding what I needed proved a challenge fit for an investigator (fortunately, I have some experience!). Let's just say, if it wasn't screwed into the wall, there was a good chance that it had been moved. Apparently, I don't stack my dishes appropriately and my chemicals should be arranged differently. While these are minor things for a regular visit with family, when your hormones are going nuts, theses little molehills are mountains.
The flood of family visitors--a wonderful beracha-- is also a character test from shamayim. Fortunately, I didn't blow a fuse or withdraw. But, I can' say I passed with an A plus either.
Last time we did this, we had a spare bedroom and I was overwhelmed by having our house taken over and by the feelings of complete powerlessness brought on by a myriad of changes introduced into my house. Things were moved, foods I don't like were brought in, and things I wanted to use were being occupied 100% by others. I know it sounds petty, but when I am in my home I want to be able to be able to find things I need, eat food I like, and use my telephone and computer when I need to.
This time, we had even less house per capita. There is no longer have a spare bedroom. And, familial guests were making the place seem really squishy. During Shabbat, I couldn't find a quiet place to sit. Even the master bedroom was like public territory due to an unfortunate problem with our second bathroom. This time I have vowed (bli neder, of course) that if we are ever blessed enough to have another child (or even if we aren't), that we will be living in a larger place-preferably with a basement to which we can send everyone so we can maintain the regular environment for those who are suffering attachment issues because I will (sadly enough) never have a short hospital visit. My goal this year is to save money like mad to get a sizable enough downpayment to make this happen.
Of course, the upside of having family around is huge and I couldn't be more thankful for the help with stocking up the pantry, getting to doctors appointments, running small errands, playing with the kids, letting me run into the pharmacy without taking the kids in, and more.
But this week everything changed, and for the positive, I think. All extra persons returned home. I started and even finished some work for some clients. I got bedtimes back on schedule with a lot of persistence, and the baby is even sleeping better at night. And yesterday, I had a few hours to sit and regroup.
And, after all of that I have declared BACK TO LIFE, BACK TO REALITY. And, I am so glad. I'm nervous to venture out by myself with an overeager toddler and baby in weather that is getting colder by the day. But, at a certain point, I just need to settle into normal life, even when that normal life is now different.
Can anyone else relate?
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
How Can You Help?
My friend Esther has posted her suggestions to help answer to my question number 5 of the post Debt, Tithing, and Bankruptcy.
In the comments section of my last post, Ayelet brings up an unfortunately problem that seems to plague the frum community in response to question number 2: non-payment for teaching in Yeshiva, which I can't imagine is anything but assur. Somehow I'm always shocked by these stories, but have no idea why because I've heard way too many of these stories. Unfortunately, I personally know a number of people (and I don't know the affairs of that many people!) who have sat in the same boat or are sitting there currently. She writes:
I can't think of a more "Orthonomic" issue than this one. However, I don't believe I am qualified to write a post on the issue. So, I would welcome a guest post on any aspect of this issue and am happy to ensure confidentiality as I have done for other guest posters on other issues.
Hoping to see more comments. I'm glad to be back.
My friend Esther has posted her suggestions to help answer to my question number 5 of the post Debt, Tithing, and Bankruptcy.
In the comments section of my last post, Ayelet brings up an unfortunately problem that seems to plague the frum community in response to question number 2: non-payment for teaching in Yeshiva, which I can't imagine is anything but assur. Somehow I'm always shocked by these stories, but have no idea why because I've heard way too many of these stories. Unfortunately, I personally know a number of people (and I don't know the affairs of that many people!) who have sat in the same boat or are sitting there currently. She writes:
"Number 2 - good question! I'm still trying to get salary owed to my
husband for teaching in a yeshivah - 5 years ago! Is this even muttar l'halacha?
When I think of the interest I have been losing and the tax (at a higher bracket
than I was then) I will have to pay, I shudder. I have a feeling there are
plenty of yeshiva that are 'behind' on payroll. "
I can't think of a more "Orthonomic" issue than this one. However, I don't believe I am qualified to write a post on the issue. So, I would welcome a guest post on any aspect of this issue and am happy to ensure confidentiality as I have done for other guest posters on other issues.
Hoping to see more comments. I'm glad to be back.
Monday, November 20, 2006
Debt, Tithing, and Bankruptcy
I recently ran into an interesting column called "The Color of Money" by Michelle Singletary. I don't know too much about her regular column or subject matter, but I plan to make it a regular read after seeing her website and her recent column.
In her recent column titled "Bankruptcy Law Says Thou Shalt Not Tithe," she writes about the new bankruptcy laws that went into effect last year, the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005. Unfortunately, my knowledge of bankruptcy law is dated, approximately 10 years. So, I will have to rely on the article, which appears to give a good summary.
According to the new laws, those who file for bankruptcy declare bankruptcy after a "means test." Those with lower annual incomes, as defined by their state's median income, are permitted to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, which excuses most non-secured debt. Those with higher incomes, based on the "means test," must file for bankruptcy under Chapter 13. Chapter 13 bankruptcy requires debtors to repay their debts over a 3-5 year period. They are allowed "reasonable" expenses, and are expected to use what is left to repay creditors. In short, under the old bankruptcy laws and the Religious Liberty and Charitable Donation Protection Act of 1998, court judges were required to permit debtors to tithe up to 15% of their annual income, thereby including charity as a "reasonable expense."
However, these new bankruptcy laws are the source of much controversy. In 2005, the law changed and judges are no longer required to allow debtors to tithe. In fact, in a NY case, U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Robert Littlefield Jr., ruled that a couple who gave $100 weekly to their church, had to use that money to pay their creditors. The judge wrote in his decision that the laws treat debtors differently , making charitable giving easier for some and not others (I believe he is alluding to the fact that those who file under Chapter 7 can still give charitably) and that "whether tithing is or is not reasonable is up to Washington to decide. However, consistency and logic would demand the same treatment of all debtors."
The change in law has been criticized by politicians on both sides of the isle (Both Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, and Barack Obama, D-Ill, are putting forth legislation that would allow those declaring bankruptcy to continue to give to their charities) for interfering with religious freedom and for discouraging charitable giving. The National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys president, Mr. Sommer, states, "For religious Americans who find themselves deeply in debt due to job loss, catastrophic medical expenses or other circumstances [Sephardi Lady's question: might he be alluding to pure fiscal irresponsibility?], the 2005 reform legislation didn't just reward the federal bankruptcy code, it also effectively rewrote Exodus and Deuteronomy. Many who practice their faith and believe that they are bound by creed to tithe a portion of their income will find that Congress effectively decided that what credit cards want is more important than the deeply personal religious practices of Americans."
The column writer, Michelle Singletary, seems to take the position that charitable giving is reasonable for debtors, stating "Is tithing or charitable giving reasonable if you are in debt? For many it is. It's not a matter of choice. It's a matter of faith." But, she closes with a warning form the Torah, Psalms/Tehillim 37:21, "The wicked borrows and does not repay," and writes, "Just as you are called to render your tithes or charitable contributions, so too should you make every reasonable attempt to honor your debts."
As for me, I'm conflicted. I certainly wouldn't want to shut a fellow American out of religious life, and being unable to give, is like showing a religious person the exit door to religious life. On the other hand, creditors of all types should be paid, especially when their services/goods were enjoyed by the debtor. To allow high levels of giving, while the small businessman (or even big businessman), takes a back seat while a debtor puts other, seemingly optional expenses, before his, just doesn't seem reasonable either. Personally, I'd hate to be that small businessman (or woman) who extended credit on good faith, only to be left waiting in the cold, while this organization and that organization get paid before me.
And now for the Orthonomics. . . . . . .
Calling all Rabbis, Lawyers, Accountants, Community Activists, and you the reader to weigh in:
1. What does halacha have to say about the interplay between debt and ma'aser/tzedakah? I know plenty of frum people who are deeply in debt (tuition payers and not-yet-tuition payers) who continue to give generously. L'maaseh, does a person's requirements for ma'aser change if they find themselves in deep debt? How are different types of debts treated when it comes to changing giving patterns, assuming they change?
2. What does halacha have to say about the priority of bill paying? Who comes first, who follows, and who ends up in last place? For laborers, We know that halacha places "day laborers" (and I would assume other employees) as a first priority. But, what about for those that provide other services or consumer goods?
3. How have (or how will) these new bankruptcy laws affect the Orthodox community at large, or members of the Orthodox community individually? I don't know how many people in the community file for bankruptcy, but imagine that it doesn't differ significantly from the rest of American society. A friend of mine who is a financial planner believes that the debt of the younger generation combined with these new laws will have an effect.
4. And, how have (or how will) these new bankruptcy laws, affect Yeshivot and Day School? Are members allowed to pay for private, parochial schools under the new laws, or is it at the discretion of the courts. I recall reading that this expense is allowed, but only in a "token" amount, and we all know that frum schools don't cost a token amount. Are there schools out there dealing with keeping students enrolled despite bankruptcy? And what is the impact on tuition for other students?
5. What should the Orthodox community be doing, if anything, to help its members avoid falling into debt in the first place, or deeper into debt?
That is it for now. My brain is starting to wake up after our recent simcha. But, if this post is not a good one, please excuse it and ask your own questions.
I recently ran into an interesting column called "The Color of Money" by Michelle Singletary. I don't know too much about her regular column or subject matter, but I plan to make it a regular read after seeing her website and her recent column.
In her recent column titled "Bankruptcy Law Says Thou Shalt Not Tithe," she writes about the new bankruptcy laws that went into effect last year, the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005. Unfortunately, my knowledge of bankruptcy law is dated, approximately 10 years. So, I will have to rely on the article, which appears to give a good summary.
According to the new laws, those who file for bankruptcy declare bankruptcy after a "means test." Those with lower annual incomes, as defined by their state's median income, are permitted to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, which excuses most non-secured debt. Those with higher incomes, based on the "means test," must file for bankruptcy under Chapter 13. Chapter 13 bankruptcy requires debtors to repay their debts over a 3-5 year period. They are allowed "reasonable" expenses, and are expected to use what is left to repay creditors. In short, under the old bankruptcy laws and the Religious Liberty and Charitable Donation Protection Act of 1998, court judges were required to permit debtors to tithe up to 15% of their annual income, thereby including charity as a "reasonable expense."
However, these new bankruptcy laws are the source of much controversy. In 2005, the law changed and judges are no longer required to allow debtors to tithe. In fact, in a NY case, U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Robert Littlefield Jr., ruled that a couple who gave $100 weekly to their church, had to use that money to pay their creditors. The judge wrote in his decision that the laws treat debtors differently , making charitable giving easier for some and not others (I believe he is alluding to the fact that those who file under Chapter 7 can still give charitably) and that "whether tithing is or is not reasonable is up to Washington to decide. However, consistency and logic would demand the same treatment of all debtors."
The change in law has been criticized by politicians on both sides of the isle (Both Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, and Barack Obama, D-Ill, are putting forth legislation that would allow those declaring bankruptcy to continue to give to their charities) for interfering with religious freedom and for discouraging charitable giving. The National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys president, Mr. Sommer, states, "For religious Americans who find themselves deeply in debt due to job loss, catastrophic medical expenses or other circumstances [Sephardi Lady's question: might he be alluding to pure fiscal irresponsibility?], the 2005 reform legislation didn't just reward the federal bankruptcy code, it also effectively rewrote Exodus and Deuteronomy. Many who practice their faith and believe that they are bound by creed to tithe a portion of their income will find that Congress effectively decided that what credit cards want is more important than the deeply personal religious practices of Americans."
The column writer, Michelle Singletary, seems to take the position that charitable giving is reasonable for debtors, stating "Is tithing or charitable giving reasonable if you are in debt? For many it is. It's not a matter of choice. It's a matter of faith." But, she closes with a warning form the Torah, Psalms/Tehillim 37:21, "The wicked borrows and does not repay," and writes, "Just as you are called to render your tithes or charitable contributions, so too should you make every reasonable attempt to honor your debts."
As for me, I'm conflicted. I certainly wouldn't want to shut a fellow American out of religious life, and being unable to give, is like showing a religious person the exit door to religious life. On the other hand, creditors of all types should be paid, especially when their services/goods were enjoyed by the debtor. To allow high levels of giving, while the small businessman (or even big businessman), takes a back seat while a debtor puts other, seemingly optional expenses, before his, just doesn't seem reasonable either. Personally, I'd hate to be that small businessman (or woman) who extended credit on good faith, only to be left waiting in the cold, while this organization and that organization get paid before me.
And now for the Orthonomics. . . . . . .
Calling all Rabbis, Lawyers, Accountants, Community Activists, and you the reader to weigh in:
1. What does halacha have to say about the interplay between debt and ma'aser/tzedakah? I know plenty of frum people who are deeply in debt (tuition payers and not-yet-tuition payers) who continue to give generously. L'maaseh, does a person's requirements for ma'aser change if they find themselves in deep debt? How are different types of debts treated when it comes to changing giving patterns, assuming they change?
2. What does halacha have to say about the priority of bill paying? Who comes first, who follows, and who ends up in last place? For laborers, We know that halacha places "day laborers" (and I would assume other employees) as a first priority. But, what about for those that provide other services or consumer goods?
3. How have (or how will) these new bankruptcy laws affect the Orthodox community at large, or members of the Orthodox community individually? I don't know how many people in the community file for bankruptcy, but imagine that it doesn't differ significantly from the rest of American society. A friend of mine who is a financial planner believes that the debt of the younger generation combined with these new laws will have an effect.
4. And, how have (or how will) these new bankruptcy laws, affect Yeshivot and Day School? Are members allowed to pay for private, parochial schools under the new laws, or is it at the discretion of the courts. I recall reading that this expense is allowed, but only in a "token" amount, and we all know that frum schools don't cost a token amount. Are there schools out there dealing with keeping students enrolled despite bankruptcy? And what is the impact on tuition for other students?
5. What should the Orthodox community be doing, if anything, to help its members avoid falling into debt in the first place, or deeper into debt?
That is it for now. My brain is starting to wake up after our recent simcha. But, if this post is not a good one, please excuse it and ask your own questions.
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Mazal Tov!
Since it has been announced in the j-blogs, I might as well write a few random and not so random thoughts about our most recent simcha: the birth of a now healthy and happy baby girl. She is beautiful, snuggly, calm, and content. There is nothing more we could ask for and we have such hakarat hatov to HaKadosh Baruchu for the opportunity to be mechanech a child once again.
G-d willing, I will have a smooth recovery and be able to get off these pain killers which make me feel terrible and make me wonder why anyone would take such things voluntarily. Unfortunately, the past few days, I've had a number of complications, many of which explain my absence. Giving birth is apparently not my forte. But, ultimately, what counts is how one raises their children, and my life goal is to do that successfully.
Bring a baby into klal yisrael is always exhilarating. But, one of the things I marvel at the most is the pure chessed that exists in our communities. Whether new parents needs meals, assistance with chores or errands, help with other children, etc, there are always ample volunteers seeking you out, young and old. Ma Tovu?
The other thing I marvel at is the miracle of modern medicine. Unfortunately, as I mentioned before, giving birth is not my strength. And, I have to be thankful to Hashem that I was placed in this generation and not in a past generation.
That is it for now. I want to wish everyone a Shabbat Shalom, a Good Shabbos, and that we only celebrate smachot together.
Next. . . back to our regular programming.
Since it has been announced in the j-blogs, I might as well write a few random and not so random thoughts about our most recent simcha: the birth of a now healthy and happy baby girl. She is beautiful, snuggly, calm, and content. There is nothing more we could ask for and we have such hakarat hatov to HaKadosh Baruchu for the opportunity to be mechanech a child once again.
G-d willing, I will have a smooth recovery and be able to get off these pain killers which make me feel terrible and make me wonder why anyone would take such things voluntarily. Unfortunately, the past few days, I've had a number of complications, many of which explain my absence. Giving birth is apparently not my forte. But, ultimately, what counts is how one raises their children, and my life goal is to do that successfully.
Bring a baby into klal yisrael is always exhilarating. But, one of the things I marvel at the most is the pure chessed that exists in our communities. Whether new parents needs meals, assistance with chores or errands, help with other children, etc, there are always ample volunteers seeking you out, young and old. Ma Tovu?
The other thing I marvel at is the miracle of modern medicine. Unfortunately, as I mentioned before, giving birth is not my strength. And, I have to be thankful to Hashem that I was placed in this generation and not in a past generation.
That is it for now. I want to wish everyone a Shabbat Shalom, a Good Shabbos, and that we only celebrate smachot together.
Next. . . back to our regular programming.
Friday, November 03, 2006
You're not registered to vote? You are kidding me, right?
During the last presidential election, 2 years ago, I found out that a number of our neighbors and friends were not registered to vote. Now, voter apathy is commonplace in America, but I don't believe I'd ever met a Jew of voting age who not only didn't vote, but never even registered to vote. Certainly, one would admit that they didn't vote. Most times, I've found myself wishing that American Jews as a whole would vote differently. But, I can say that at least they vote.
Now, I have no evidence that our friends/neighbors who are not registered to vote are not complete anomalies. So, I don't want to paint a broad brush. But, a part of me thinks that voter apathy (amongst the young) in some segments of our communities, is not uncommon. But, I really don't know. Your take?
One conversation that led to my discovery was about the previous days activities. Wife: So, what did you end up doing last night? Me: Oh, my husband and I finally sat down with our sample ballot and researched the candidates for the local school board. We didn't know too much about them. Wife: Why do you care? It's not like your kids will be going to school there. Me: G-d willing we will be able to send our children to Yeshiva or day school, but I still want to see strong schools in our district, whether or not we use them (and plenty of frum people do have to take advantage of the public services). In addition, the values of society affect everyone, and given the controversy over much of the social education in this district, I'd prefer to see more conservative officials sitting on the board, for the sake of all students, including our own. (Continued) Me: Have you thought about who you are voting for? Wife: No, we really don't care. Me: Oh, well, you must have a choice for the presidential candidate? Wife: My husband and me aren't even registered to vote, so I guess we couldn't vote for Bush if we wanted to. Me: You're not registered?
Another conversation went like this? Neighbor: So, do you vote? Me: Yes. Neighbor: So, who are you voting for (Bush or Kerry)? Me: No question, Bush. Neighbor: So, is he good. Me: He is too big government and spends too much for my taste. But, I believe that he is best for foreign policy and just look at the alternative. So, who are you voting for? Neighbor: Oh, we can't vote. Me: Well, why not register for next time and look into some of the important issues? Neighbor: Hmmm.
Honestly, I can't even relate. The day that I turned 18, my parents gave me the keys to the car (didn't happen very often!) and I celebrated my newfound adulthood by driving to the courthouse to register to vote. It happened that I also got to vote shortly after, on my own high school campus, in my first primary election, which made me feel very grown up. Most of my classmates were not old enough to register in time for the primary, and (while it may sound silly), coming from a strict household where I didn't have a ton of freedoms, this gave me a feeling of being a real adult. And, knowing a number of classmates and friends who were already in the Armed Forces or had already enlisted, didn't hurt when it came to understanding the great importance of voting.
On the frum front, so many sages have stressed and do stress the importance of voting in this medinah shel chessed. And, so many local Rabbonim, organizations, and Yeshivot, in nearly every Orthodox community and across the spectrum of Orthodoxy, stress the importance of the political process and make large efforts to acquaint their communities with candidates. No matter what your interpretation of da'at Torah is, I think the evidence that we should be participating in the political process is heavily stacked in the favor of exercising the privledge and right to vote.
So, in conclusion: get out and vote! And, if you haven't registered, register for next time!
Below, I have posted another great piece from Rabbi Yakov Horowitz that arrived in my box while I was in the middle of writing my piece. As usual, he expresses great thoughts, much more gracefully.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Do You Exist?
Please Take the Time to Vote on Election Day
By: Rabbi Yakov Horowitz
If we don't vote, we don't exist. Those words, spoken with passion and conviction by my dear chaver Rabbi Yechiel Kalish, stopped me in my tracks during an enjoyable dinner that we were sharing recently.
Rabbi Kalish ought to know. He serves as Coordinator for Agudath Israel of America's Commission on Government Affairs and as their Midwest Director. He is charming, engaging, and extraordinarily knowledgeable in the ways and means of how government operates.
Rabbi Kalish and many other dedicated officers in Jewish communal organizations represent you in governmental matters that are important to your life. Securing financial support for mosdos Hatorah. Getting government grants for chesed organizations. Lowering your taxes. Protecting your rights in the workplace. Equally important are the initiatives that the leadership of Agudath Israel and other Jewish organizations are working tirelessly to actualize. School vouchers. Tax credits for yeshiva tuition payments. Financial aid for parents of learning disabled or handicapped children.
It is exceedingly difficult to understand why so many members of our community donÂ’t feel the obligation to vote in each and every election. In this malchus shel chesed (benevolent country), we ought to be model citizens and exercise our civic duty by voting on Election Day.
Perhaps equally as important, voting allows each of us to be heard. Which candidate you vote for doesn't matter much in the broader scheme of things. Just that you vote regularly. Rabbi Kalish points out that the level of sophistication in today's data collection allow elected officials to track voting patterns and almost effortlessly find out how many voters he represents each time he advocates for us. Not how many people, but rather how many voters.
Because if you don't vote, you don't matter. If you don't vote, you don't exist. If you don't vote, you don't have an elected official caring about your existence or needs. Rallies and protests get headlines, but they are a merely sideshows. Elected officials direct their attention to the main event, Election Day.
Especially now, with the very real and terrifying threats faced by our brothers and sisters in Eretz Yisroel, I feel that it is almost pikuach nefesh (a life-and-death matter) for each of us to vote and be heard.
I was only eight years old in 1967, but I clearly recall the raw fear that gripped the adults in my life during the build-up to the Six-Day War. Gamal Abdel Nasser, the President of Egypt, fashioned a coalition of the Arab states. Egypt, Jordan and Syria massed their troops on the borders surrounding Eretz Yisroel and announced their intention to Push the Jews into the sea. And by all accounts, they seemed to have had the ability to do just that, Hashem yeracheim. Russia, then in its heyday, was supplying the Arabs with seemingly limitless numbers of tanks and weapons, and the Arab troops combined outnumbered the Israeli soldiers by many multiples of ten.
Here in America, things were far from normal during those days and weeks. Survivors of the churban in Europe (most of the adults in those days) cried unabashedly in shul during davening as they pleaded with Hashem to spare the lives of our brothers and sisters in Eretz Yisroel. Mass tefilah gatherings, not a common thing forty years ago, were held.
My most vivid memories from those frightening weeks was awakening each morning and seeing my parents huddled around the kitchen radio with drawn faces, listening to the reports of events in Eretz Yisroel. There was a tangible feeling of an existential threat to Klal Yisroel one that, with the chesed of Hashem was removed with the stunning victory that became known as the Six-Day War.
Sadly, history is repeating itself once again. Our brothers and sisters in Eretz Yisroel were subjected to horrific destruction and terror with thousands of rockets rained on all of Northern Eretz Yisroel this past summer. A sea of enemies sworn to our destruction surrounds us. The leader of Iran, who is attempting to create a nuclear arsenal, repeatedly calls for the eradication of Israel, and publicly stated that, Israel's destruction is the solution [to the conflict]. The vile, hate-filled, anti-Semitic rhetoric emanating from many leaders in the Arab world and most of the Arab Street is at least equivalent to that of the Nazi propaganda machine in the late 1930's. The vast majority of nations would deny us the right to return fire and protect our women and children by any means possible.
We hope that Hashem will be merciful to us and remove these threats to our existence. But if there is chas v'shalom another war in Eretz Yisroel; Rabbi Kalish, his colleagues at Agudath Israel, and dedicated leaders of other Jewish organizations will be called upon to rally support from elected officials in every level of government to support the defense of our brothers and sisters.
With the burgeoning Arab population in the United States and Europe, elected officials have many voices whispering in their ears. They will rightfully wonder how many voters Rabbi Kalish and his colleagues represent. Remember not how many people, but how many voters.
So I ask you; will you exist, should Klal Yisroel need your help? Only you can answer that question on Election Day, Tuesday, November 7th.
Please, please take the time to vote; for yourself, for your community, and for Klal Yisroel.
Vote as if Jewish lives depend on your involvement. Because they may.
© 2006 Rabbi Yakov Horowitz, all rights reserved
During the last presidential election, 2 years ago, I found out that a number of our neighbors and friends were not registered to vote. Now, voter apathy is commonplace in America, but I don't believe I'd ever met a Jew of voting age who not only didn't vote, but never even registered to vote. Certainly, one would admit that they didn't vote. Most times, I've found myself wishing that American Jews as a whole would vote differently. But, I can say that at least they vote.
Now, I have no evidence that our friends/neighbors who are not registered to vote are not complete anomalies. So, I don't want to paint a broad brush. But, a part of me thinks that voter apathy (amongst the young) in some segments of our communities, is not uncommon. But, I really don't know. Your take?
One conversation that led to my discovery was about the previous days activities. Wife: So, what did you end up doing last night? Me: Oh, my husband and I finally sat down with our sample ballot and researched the candidates for the local school board. We didn't know too much about them. Wife: Why do you care? It's not like your kids will be going to school there. Me: G-d willing we will be able to send our children to Yeshiva or day school, but I still want to see strong schools in our district, whether or not we use them (and plenty of frum people do have to take advantage of the public services). In addition, the values of society affect everyone, and given the controversy over much of the social education in this district, I'd prefer to see more conservative officials sitting on the board, for the sake of all students, including our own. (Continued) Me: Have you thought about who you are voting for? Wife: No, we really don't care. Me: Oh, well, you must have a choice for the presidential candidate? Wife: My husband and me aren't even registered to vote, so I guess we couldn't vote for Bush if we wanted to. Me: You're not registered?
Another conversation went like this? Neighbor: So, do you vote? Me: Yes. Neighbor: So, who are you voting for (Bush or Kerry)? Me: No question, Bush. Neighbor: So, is he good. Me: He is too big government and spends too much for my taste. But, I believe that he is best for foreign policy and just look at the alternative. So, who are you voting for? Neighbor: Oh, we can't vote. Me: Well, why not register for next time and look into some of the important issues? Neighbor: Hmmm.
Honestly, I can't even relate. The day that I turned 18, my parents gave me the keys to the car (didn't happen very often!) and I celebrated my newfound adulthood by driving to the courthouse to register to vote. It happened that I also got to vote shortly after, on my own high school campus, in my first primary election, which made me feel very grown up. Most of my classmates were not old enough to register in time for the primary, and (while it may sound silly), coming from a strict household where I didn't have a ton of freedoms, this gave me a feeling of being a real adult. And, knowing a number of classmates and friends who were already in the Armed Forces or had already enlisted, didn't hurt when it came to understanding the great importance of voting.
On the frum front, so many sages have stressed and do stress the importance of voting in this medinah shel chessed. And, so many local Rabbonim, organizations, and Yeshivot, in nearly every Orthodox community and across the spectrum of Orthodoxy, stress the importance of the political process and make large efforts to acquaint their communities with candidates. No matter what your interpretation of da'at Torah is, I think the evidence that we should be participating in the political process is heavily stacked in the favor of exercising the privledge and right to vote.
So, in conclusion: get out and vote! And, if you haven't registered, register for next time!
Below, I have posted another great piece from Rabbi Yakov Horowitz that arrived in my box while I was in the middle of writing my piece. As usual, he expresses great thoughts, much more gracefully.
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Do You Exist?
Please Take the Time to Vote on Election Day
By: Rabbi Yakov Horowitz
If we don't vote, we don't exist. Those words, spoken with passion and conviction by my dear chaver Rabbi Yechiel Kalish, stopped me in my tracks during an enjoyable dinner that we were sharing recently.
Rabbi Kalish ought to know. He serves as Coordinator for Agudath Israel of America's Commission on Government Affairs and as their Midwest Director. He is charming, engaging, and extraordinarily knowledgeable in the ways and means of how government operates.
Rabbi Kalish and many other dedicated officers in Jewish communal organizations represent you in governmental matters that are important to your life. Securing financial support for mosdos Hatorah. Getting government grants for chesed organizations. Lowering your taxes. Protecting your rights in the workplace. Equally important are the initiatives that the leadership of Agudath Israel and other Jewish organizations are working tirelessly to actualize. School vouchers. Tax credits for yeshiva tuition payments. Financial aid for parents of learning disabled or handicapped children.
It is exceedingly difficult to understand why so many members of our community donÂ’t feel the obligation to vote in each and every election. In this malchus shel chesed (benevolent country), we ought to be model citizens and exercise our civic duty by voting on Election Day.
Perhaps equally as important, voting allows each of us to be heard. Which candidate you vote for doesn't matter much in the broader scheme of things. Just that you vote regularly. Rabbi Kalish points out that the level of sophistication in today's data collection allow elected officials to track voting patterns and almost effortlessly find out how many voters he represents each time he advocates for us. Not how many people, but rather how many voters.
Because if you don't vote, you don't matter. If you don't vote, you don't exist. If you don't vote, you don't have an elected official caring about your existence or needs. Rallies and protests get headlines, but they are a merely sideshows. Elected officials direct their attention to the main event, Election Day.
Especially now, with the very real and terrifying threats faced by our brothers and sisters in Eretz Yisroel, I feel that it is almost pikuach nefesh (a life-and-death matter) for each of us to vote and be heard.
I was only eight years old in 1967, but I clearly recall the raw fear that gripped the adults in my life during the build-up to the Six-Day War. Gamal Abdel Nasser, the President of Egypt, fashioned a coalition of the Arab states. Egypt, Jordan and Syria massed their troops on the borders surrounding Eretz Yisroel and announced their intention to Push the Jews into the sea. And by all accounts, they seemed to have had the ability to do just that, Hashem yeracheim. Russia, then in its heyday, was supplying the Arabs with seemingly limitless numbers of tanks and weapons, and the Arab troops combined outnumbered the Israeli soldiers by many multiples of ten.
Here in America, things were far from normal during those days and weeks. Survivors of the churban in Europe (most of the adults in those days) cried unabashedly in shul during davening as they pleaded with Hashem to spare the lives of our brothers and sisters in Eretz Yisroel. Mass tefilah gatherings, not a common thing forty years ago, were held.
My most vivid memories from those frightening weeks was awakening each morning and seeing my parents huddled around the kitchen radio with drawn faces, listening to the reports of events in Eretz Yisroel. There was a tangible feeling of an existential threat to Klal Yisroel one that, with the chesed of Hashem was removed with the stunning victory that became known as the Six-Day War.
Sadly, history is repeating itself once again. Our brothers and sisters in Eretz Yisroel were subjected to horrific destruction and terror with thousands of rockets rained on all of Northern Eretz Yisroel this past summer. A sea of enemies sworn to our destruction surrounds us. The leader of Iran, who is attempting to create a nuclear arsenal, repeatedly calls for the eradication of Israel, and publicly stated that, Israel's destruction is the solution [to the conflict]. The vile, hate-filled, anti-Semitic rhetoric emanating from many leaders in the Arab world and most of the Arab Street is at least equivalent to that of the Nazi propaganda machine in the late 1930's. The vast majority of nations would deny us the right to return fire and protect our women and children by any means possible.
We hope that Hashem will be merciful to us and remove these threats to our existence. But if there is chas v'shalom another war in Eretz Yisroel; Rabbi Kalish, his colleagues at Agudath Israel, and dedicated leaders of other Jewish organizations will be called upon to rally support from elected officials in every level of government to support the defense of our brothers and sisters.
With the burgeoning Arab population in the United States and Europe, elected officials have many voices whispering in their ears. They will rightfully wonder how many voters Rabbi Kalish and his colleagues represent. Remember not how many people, but how many voters.
So I ask you; will you exist, should Klal Yisroel need your help? Only you can answer that question on Election Day, Tuesday, November 7th.
Please, please take the time to vote; for yourself, for your community, and for Klal Yisroel.
Vote as if Jewish lives depend on your involvement. Because they may.
© 2006 Rabbi Yakov Horowitz, all rights reserved
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Guest Post from The Wolf: The Benefits of Losing a Credit Card
I welcome guests posts and was thrilled to receive a creative one from a fellow blogger known as The Wolf. Thanks so much for a creatively written post that contains many truths and some inspiration too. It definitely adds nice material to my current set of continuing posts on budgeting, credit, and debt.
Let me tell you a story about two of my friends. These two friends are with me constantly, going wherever I go almost all the time, except for Shabbos and Yom Tov. Very often they would appear whenever I needed something, offering their help in arranging the purchase of things I either wanted or needed. Then, when the purchase was over, they'd go back to their places and silently wait for me to call upon them again.
Their names were Mr. Visa and Mr. Mastercard.
Now, I am at least somewhat responsible about credit card use.
My credit is good, I always pay more than the minimum monthly payment and I absolutely make sure that the payment is in ahead of time. Yet, there they were with me, every day, racking up balances of $3,000 each.
Then, something happened - I lost Mr. Visa. Now, I have to admit that I am a bit messy around the house - I don't always know where everything is at every moment. I'm fairly sure that I lost Mr. Visa when I was cleaning out my wallet one night. I'm pretty sure it's not lost "outside;" - I still monitor the account and there have been no new charges for the last year or so - so I'm pretty sure that the card is lying around the house. Given the state of my messiness, I'm sure that some archaeologist will turn it up in a few hundred years.
I never bothered getting a replacement card - I found out that not having Mr. Visa by my side didn't bother me as much as I thought it would. And so, I simply go around with Mr. Mastercard these days.
In the meantime, however, I continued making payments on the Visa card, just as I always had. This might seem elementary to you, of course, but I was astounded to discover the balance going down. At this point, the card is nearly paid off - the balance is down to a few hundred now and in a few months, I'll be able to take the payments that I making to Visa and do something with them. I might be responsible and start making the payments to Mastercard; I might be prudent and stick it in savings; heck, I might even splurge with some of it - but the point is that because I had the "good luck" to lose my credit card (in a safe place), I'll soon have an extra $100 a month to put somewhere else.
What's the point of this story? Well, I suppose that it's a lesson in how someone can overcome temptation if they voluntarily separate themselves from the object of their troubles. True, it was sheer laziness that prevented me from calling for a replacement card, true it was carelessness that caused me to lose the card in the first place, true it's my messy nature that prevents me from finding the card to this day - but, in the end, I'm happier without it and will soon have the card paid off.
If I can do that through sheer laziness, carelessness and slovenliness, imagine what I could do if I more careful.
The Wolf
Attn: PA Voters
I have a lot to say about the upcoming election and don't know if I will get around to it. But, in the meantime, a good friend asked me to post this. So, I'm hoping that I have some Pennsylvania readers who will be interested. That said, don't forget election day is coming up soon, so make sure you mark your calendar.
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For Immediate Release
October 26, 2006
For more information contact:
Virginia Davis 215-528-9368
http://by113fd.bay113.hotmail.msn.com/cgi-bin/compose?mailto=1&msg=CB9078B5-01F3-4C55-9BB3-47A2A3C4C0EC&start=0&len=445574&src=&type=x&to=virginiad@ricksantorum.com&cc=&bcc=&subject=&body=&curmbox=00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000001&a=7d3e84dd286333ea4ee20f9f5ccb34b8bdd607f0267bee7b8e799dcdc48a0a10
JEWISH LEADER URGES JEWISH FAITHFUL TO VOTE "FOR THOSE WHO STRENGTHEN OUR COMMUNITY"
After meeting with Senator Santorum, Philadelphia-area sage with worldwide following issues proclamation on duty of voting
PITTSBURGH -- Earlier this month Senator Rick Santorum (R-PA) met with the revered and world-renowned Rabbi Shmuel Kaminetsky, Dean of the Talmudical Academy of Philadelphia, member of the Council of Torah Sages, and son of famed Rabbi Yaakov Kaminetsky, of blessed memory.
Senator Santorum was honored to have the opportunity to discuss with Rabbi Kaminetsky issues of mutual interest, among them school choice (including Senator Santorum's CLASS Act), the sanctity of marriage, religious freedom, the threat of a nuclear Iran, and a safe and secure Israel.
Senator Santorum was deeply moved by the multitudes of educational and social service organizations Rabbi Kaminetsky supports in addition to his relationship with thousands of students who know him fondly as their revered and beloved "Rosh Yeshiva."
Following their private meeting, and ahead of one of the most critical elections ever to be held in the Commonwealth, Rabbi Kaminetsky issued an historic Kol Korei ("proclamation") to all Jews of Pennsylvania. In the attached proclamation Rabbi Kaminetsky notes that previous sages have ruled that it befits each and every Jew to acknowledge his or her appreciation for the freedoms afforded to citizens of the United States by participating in the elections of "our nation of kindness, the United States."
Further, Rabbi Kaminetsky dismissed those who doubt the impact of their individual vote, noting that recent elections have been decided by just a few hundred votes.
"Therefore I urge all members of our community to fulfill their obligation to vote for those who strengthen our nation -- whether materially or spiritually -- and also support our Jewish brethren living in the Land of Israel," he wrote in the proclamation.
After meeting with Rabbi Kaminetsky, Senator Santorum remarked:
"The strength of the Jewish people lies in their quiet faith and their reverence for tradition and heritage. Rabbi Kaminetsky's humanity, compassion, and wisdom inspired me. A community with such leadership is truly blessed. I look forward to Rabbi Kaminetsky's guidance and sage advice in the years to come."
I have a lot to say about the upcoming election and don't know if I will get around to it. But, in the meantime, a good friend asked me to post this. So, I'm hoping that I have some Pennsylvania readers who will be interested. That said, don't forget election day is coming up soon, so make sure you mark your calendar.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For Immediate Release
October 26, 2006
For more information contact:
Virginia Davis 215-528-9368
http://by113fd.bay113.hotmail.msn.com/cgi-bin/compose?mailto=1&msg=CB9078B5-01F3-4C55-9BB3-47A2A3C4C0EC&start=0&len=445574&src=&type=x&to=virginiad@ricksantorum.com&cc=&bcc=&subject=&body=&curmbox=00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000001&a=7d3e84dd286333ea4ee20f9f5ccb34b8bdd607f0267bee7b8e799dcdc48a0a10
JEWISH LEADER URGES JEWISH FAITHFUL TO VOTE "FOR THOSE WHO STRENGTHEN OUR COMMUNITY"
After meeting with Senator Santorum, Philadelphia-area sage with worldwide following issues proclamation on duty of voting
PITTSBURGH -- Earlier this month Senator Rick Santorum (R-PA) met with the revered and world-renowned Rabbi Shmuel Kaminetsky, Dean of the Talmudical Academy of Philadelphia, member of the Council of Torah Sages, and son of famed Rabbi Yaakov Kaminetsky, of blessed memory.
Senator Santorum was honored to have the opportunity to discuss with Rabbi Kaminetsky issues of mutual interest, among them school choice (including Senator Santorum's CLASS Act), the sanctity of marriage, religious freedom, the threat of a nuclear Iran, and a safe and secure Israel.
Senator Santorum was deeply moved by the multitudes of educational and social service organizations Rabbi Kaminetsky supports in addition to his relationship with thousands of students who know him fondly as their revered and beloved "Rosh Yeshiva."
Following their private meeting, and ahead of one of the most critical elections ever to be held in the Commonwealth, Rabbi Kaminetsky issued an historic Kol Korei ("proclamation") to all Jews of Pennsylvania. In the attached proclamation Rabbi Kaminetsky notes that previous sages have ruled that it befits each and every Jew to acknowledge his or her appreciation for the freedoms afforded to citizens of the United States by participating in the elections of "our nation of kindness, the United States."
Further, Rabbi Kaminetsky dismissed those who doubt the impact of their individual vote, noting that recent elections have been decided by just a few hundred votes.
"Therefore I urge all members of our community to fulfill their obligation to vote for those who strengthen our nation -- whether materially or spiritually -- and also support our Jewish brethren living in the Land of Israel," he wrote in the proclamation.
After meeting with Rabbi Kaminetsky, Senator Santorum remarked:
"The strength of the Jewish people lies in their quiet faith and their reverence for tradition and heritage. Rabbi Kaminetsky's humanity, compassion, and wisdom inspired me. A community with such leadership is truly blessed. I look forward to Rabbi Kaminetsky's guidance and sage advice in the years to come."
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