Archive for the ‘Big Questions With Devora’ Category
Rosh Hashana 5771 / 2010 Reflections and Renewal
Written on August 24, 2010 from the desk of Rabbi David KomerofskyThe start of a school year and Rosh Hashana have always been linked in my mind. I have always felt so lucky that being Jewish gave me the opportunity to make New Years resolutions twice a year. I have tried to make Rosh Hashana resolutions focus on my religious and spiritual goals and New Years more of my physical, but over time I realize that they all go together and just taking time to assess life, consider my big questions and take stock of my dreams is a pretty worthy goal without trying to separate the issues. Read more »
Giving
Written on June 10, 2010 from the desk of Rabbi David Komerofsky“My friend asked me to sponsor her in a 10K run for cancer she was doing. I felt so frustrated that I have so little money to live on these days that I couldn’t donate to this worthy cause.” – Isa, class of 2013 Read more »
Jewish Earth Day
Written on April 15, 2010 from the desk of Rabbi David KomerofskyDear Devora,
My roommate is very wasteful and refuses to take the extra step to recycle or even turn the water off when brushing her teeth. Any suggestions?
Dani, class of 2012 Read more »
What Masks Do You Hide Behind? Who Do You Want to be?
Written on February 18, 2010 from the desk of DevelopmentWhat Masks Do You Hide Behind? Who Do You Want to be?
Dear Devora,
I feel like I am living a double life. Some of my friends see me as the ultimate party-er and others only see my studious side. Do you think it is mis-leading to behave only one way with some friends and another way with others?
- Jill, Plan 2, 2011
Too much to do…
Written on February 11, 2010 from the desk of DevelopmentLost in the Crowd?
Written on January 17, 2010 from the desk of Rabbi David KomerofskyDear Devora,
Sometimes I feel kind of lost in the crowd at UT – like no one would notice whether I am there or not. Any suggestions? – Amy, class of 2013 Read more »
Big Questions With Devora
Written on November 30, 2009 from the desk of Devora Brustin“I dread waking up in the morning. I am so unmotivated to get out of bed. Any suggestions to make this process less painful??” - Allie
This is the perfect question to be asking right around Thanksgiving and believe me, I feel your pain. As it gets cooler and darker, the pull of the warm blankets can be very enticing. Well, wouldn’t you know, once again the Jews have a great antidote for getting our heads in the game each and every day.
WE ARE TOLD: DO NOT EVEN ATTEMPT TO GET OUT OF BED BEFORE SAYING THESE WORDS
Modeh Ani or Modeh (Hebrew: מודה אני; “I give thanks,” the first words of the prayer) is a Jewish prayer that observant Jews recite daily upon waking, while still in bed.
Transliteration: Modeh ani lifanecha melech chai v’kayam shehechezarta bi nishmahti b’chemlah, rabah emunatecha.
English translation: I offer thanks before you, living and eternal King, for You have mercifully restored my soul within me; Your faithfulness is great. Read more »
How do I Make My Visit at Home for the Upcoming Breaks Stress Free?
Written on November 10, 2009 from the desk of Devora BrustinGoing home to visit for a holiday or break can be a really wonderful experience. However, it can also be very stressful for everyone involved. For you, the college student, there have been emotional, intellectual and possibly physical and spiritual transitions and transformations. Being away from home you have gotten used to your freedom and independence. Going home can be such a welcome relief… Hugging your parents, throwing your laundry in the machine, lounging on the couch, eating a home cooked meal, and sleeping in your own bed… But then, what about the next day when you are asked to set the table, told to be home by 1 a.m., and quizzed about your grades? Can this power struggle be avoided or at least dealt with in a way that your independence is honored and your parents are respected?