I'm Starting with the Man in the Mirror

Hey,

Sorry I have not updated this in a while, but so many changes have been taking place in my life...No I am not going through puberty...I believe I already went through that stage.

Since my last post I travelled for three weeks in Eretz Yisrael where I learned Torah, met some great people, ate well, partook in fun out-door trips, and had a great time. I was with a program called Meor. If you want to learn more about Meor trips check out http://www.meor.org/visitisrael/overview.asp. It is a great, lifechanging experience.

From Israel it was straight to Barcelona where I stayed with a good friend for four nights before flying back to Tel-Aviv and then from there back to NY. A lot of travelling, but worth it. The memories will last a lifetime.

On a sad note I was deeply distressed upon learning that one of my all-time favorite musical artists, Michael Jackson, passed away. Probably the most famous man in the world, he was often misunderstood yet his innovative dancing and music brought joy to millions across the globe. I hope he knew how much his music touched so many people's lives.

Anyway, I realize this entry is a bit more personal than most and at the risk of making it more personal I will share the following with you. After Israel I began observing the Shabbat. Shabbat is something I have long wanted to observe, but I was afraid that it would be too difficult to accomodate at this stage of my life...I couldn't have been more wrong.

Contrary to what our own individual Yetzer Hara (evil inclination) would have us believe, Hashem set up the world so that choosing to do a mitzvah will always bring positivity into one's life. Do not think you cannot bring Torah into your life. You can if you will it. It's like the words Michael Jackson sang...'If you want to make the world a better place, take a look at yourself and make a change.' Changing the world for the better begins with changing oneself. We have to start with the man (or woman) in the mirror. We all mess up at times, but if we view our lives as a constant project of self-improvement we can bring more positive light and joy into this world.

I have also began eating only kosher and wearing a kippa in public. The vibrant and strong environment of Israel greatly empowered me as a Jew and as an individual. Before spending time in Israel I always wanted to have these things in my life, but was too scared of what people thought. After being in a place where living Jewishly is the norm I no longer sweat what others might think of my lifestyle. I still have a lot of growing to do, but Israel boosted my confidence in myself and gave me the strength to keep trying to do what I know in my heart is right. Israel truly is a holy place.

Ok, I have divulged enough information about myself. I promise to find more interesting topics to report on in future posts, but I felt like I had to share with you what has been going on in my life.

Blessed love! Yasher koach!