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I attended a very interesting book signing of Rabbi Levi Y. Shmotkin, who recently edited and published "Letters for Life: Guidance for Emotional Wellness from the Lubavitcher Rebbe".  

Shmotkin spoke on various topics, presenting examples from individuals he himself interviewed that had received letters from the Rebbe. Shmotkin spent years reading and researching the Rebbe’s correspondence and archives. The common denominator he identified was the Rebbe’s advice and teachings on coping with the inevitable challenges that threaten our peace of mind.

The Rebbe was the one that brought Torah wisdom down to earth and made it accessible for all. His teachings and guidance evident in the many thousands of letters he personally answered are inspiring and life-changing. 

In this episode, I share what touched me the most and what all people can apply to everyday life to achieve emotional wellbeing.

Mentions:

Book - "Letters for Life: Guidance for Emotional Wellness from the Lubavitcher Rebbe"

The Rebbe - Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson

Levi Y. Shmotkin - author and editor 

Psalm 23

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Every time I volunteer at my synagogue, I learn a ton. This time was not exception. I helped the summer camp put on a kids play, which turned out to be a highly educational and gratifying experience for me.

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Baruch Hashem - B''H

Frozen - Disney movie

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After promising myself that I would not become a pet owner because family life is already hectic enough, and also to avoid heartbreak due to the eventual pet's illness and death (my in law's pet had recently passed away), my husband and I gave into our son's plea for a dog. Even though we agreed on a specific breed and size, we ended up re-homing a dog that was nothing like we what we had envisioned or hoped for. Such is the irony of life! 

In this episode, I also share inspirational quotes from Torah and psalms that have the power to develop in us a greater trust in G-d and the plans He has for us - plans, which more often than not do not coincide with our human, limited-vision intentions. 

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Corsican dog - cursinu

My dog's probable breed - Mountain Cur

Norse mythology 

Loki - God of mischief

Quote from outorah.org by Rabbi Jack Abramowitz

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In this episode, I recount my visit to one of the most magical, spiritual, holy places in the world - the Ohel - the burial site of the Rebbe in Queens, New York.

You will find out how to prepare for a visit, what to expect and what to do step-by-step once you get there, as well as what makes this place a holy site for Jews all over the world. 

You don't have to be Jewish to visit the Ohel, which is open 24/7 and welcomes people regardless of their religion and from all walks of life. 

You will learn about prayers and psalms recited at the burial site, and various Jewish customs. 

Mentions:

 Ohel Chabad Lubavitch

The Rebbe -  Menachem Mendel Schneerson

Tanya - book that  is composed of five sections that define Hasidic mystical psychology and theology as a handbook for daily spiritual life in Jewish observance.

Psalm 39 - a psalm of David expressing themes of mortality, suffering, and the brevity of life

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The adventure continues to Norway. Hear about my experience as a Jew in Bergen and Oslo, as well as Norway's natural beauty, and peculiar art scene. 

Mentions: 

Bergen - port city

Fjords -  long, narrow, deep inlets of the sea with steep sides formed by glacial erosion

Mount Floyen in Bergen and the Troll Forest

Oslo - capital

Quote by the Rebbe - Menachem Mendel Schneerson

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The Jewish adventure continues in Sweden. In this episode, I recount my family's visit to the Great Synagogue of Stockholm and the Jewish museum. I comment on the liberal nature of Stockholm's Jewish community and express my opinion on the importance of tradition, which is what keeps the Jews strong and able to withstand any challenges. 

Mentions:

 The Great Synagogue of Stockholm 

Aron Isak - a German seal engraver, was the first Jewish person to receive permission to live in Sweden

Judiska Museet - Jewish Museum

Scandic hotels - my recommendation

Quote from musical “Fiddler on the roof”

LoveToHeal in the social media:

Instagram and TikTok @lovetohealpodcast

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In this episode, I recount my family's "Jewish" adventure in Copenhagen, Denmark. From the synagogue to a Chabad to a kosher restaurant, I give you my take on what it's like to be Jewish in a very liberal European country.

Mentions:

Great Synagogue of Copenhagen

Chabad of Denmark

Kosher restaurant "Taim"

Quote by Rabbi Nachman of Breslov

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Have you ever attended a Bar or Bat Mitzvah ceremony? If not, in this episode, you will learn all about this coming-of-age ritual in Judaism: what it means, why it's important, how it transpires, what to give as a gift and more!

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Quote by Rabbi Jonathan Sacks

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In this last episode of Season 5, I share with you an excerpt from my conversation with an incredible human being, someone who, despite her paralysis from the waist down, limited vision and hearing, continues to live life with utmost joy, inspiring everyone around her to be thankful for our every breath and our opportunities to love and to serve others. Her story of resilience and faith is so motivating that I hope you will share it with others. My guest is dancer, singer, artist and author Kimberly Ocampo. 

Kimberly's dancing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oo90ong5dX8

Kimberly's music: https://youtube.com/channel/UCxfAUPIuO4ItUCLd1uauPVA?si=eR-VtH_k4WRWr5y9 

Also available on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5qwHKE1bTLFscEdsDXAEok?si=m_GjcgSgS8aPRdZfNMH8SQ

Kimberly's book: https://a.co/d/47wWlQg

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In this episode, I recount the details of two Shavuot events that I attended this year. I explain the holiday's significance and traditions. Shavuot is not only a time for spiritual growth, but also it is a time for families and communities to come together, reaffirming their commitment to Jewish learning, while celebrating the spiritual connection with G-d.

Mentions:

Chabad.org

Poem by Rick Lupert

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