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By Mindy Rubenstein Although Yaakov (Jacob) was aware of his many merits, he was also able to rise above natural human shortsightedness and realize how infinitely indebted we are all to G-d. With this perspective, he humbly assumed that his merits were insufficient to deserve G-d's protection. So he petitioned G-d to save him and … Continue reading Selfless Prayer

By Mindy Rubenstein We had good intentions when we chose to take on a Torah-observant lifestyle. Already married for seven years, my husband and I had two toddlers when we started on this journey together. I wanted to go full-speed ahead, and he was more cautious and calculated.  But it’s not about him or me. … Continue reading Let’s stop judging and be more loving

By Mindy Rubenstein You may have seen people like me at events or at kiddush after Shabbat services, seeming aloof. Maybe you thought I was shy or even rude. And maybe I was. I'm always the new person, as my baal teshuvah family and I explore Jewish communities -- Palm Harbor, Potomac, Atlanta, Richmond, Norfolk, … Continue reading It’s not you, it’s me

By Mindy Rubenstein It’s quiet. Early morning. My four children are still asleep in their beds. But there’s a sound. Like crickets, maybe, but I think it’s only in my mind. There’s almost a rhythm to it. I didn’t even know it was there until I quieted the thoughts. Paid attention to the thoughts as … Continue reading Words from Above

By Mindy Rubenstein Editor, Jewish News As I walked into Chabad Jewish Center of West Pasco last month, my eyes searched the crowded room for her. And there she was, the beautiful brand-new Torah, set delicately on the table awaiting her final letters. My seat was right near her, and I was able to glimpse … Continue reading Chabad of West Pasco celebrates new Torah

By Mindy Rubenstein Growing up in suburban Seminole, my parents drove my brother and me 30 minutes each way to Clearwater for Sunday School, and then also to Hebrew school each Tuesday evening as we approached Bar/Bat Mitzvah age. Anyone who knows my father understands that he hates driving and will typically avoid it at … Continue reading As Jacksonville’s Jewish Community Grows, New Torah High School is Next Step

A non-Jewish friend shared a reggae song with me recently, and I was moved by its lyrics and graceful passion. The lovely woman singing seemed to be on spiritual fire! As I listened carefully to the lyrics of this song, I found that, like many songs of this genre, they're usually religious. I don’t know … Continue reading Teach Like Your Soul’s on FIRE: A Plea from a BT Mom