You know that there are unhappy situations that cannot be changed. Sometimes, there are no easy solutions and you’re forced to live with the reality that Hashem has given you. When you’re confronted with a challenge, you’re given a choice: accept the master plan or cause yourself endless suffering. How do you make the decision that can lead to more happiness? How can you learn to let go of the hurt and anger you may feel deep inside? In the final class of the Pursuit of Happiness series, Rabbi Shafier offers a fresh direction in strengthening your emunah and bitachon for when you need it most. 

Consider this: The Seforno says, “In the beginning” means at the very first moment of time itself. But if Hashem existed before that, how could time have a beginning? It's a good kashe, no? In this short but powerful shiur, Rabbi Shafier untangles this question with an astonishing message for your own life. Not sure what your purpose is? Struggling to find meaning and direction? Even if you're not beating back the voices of self-doubt and existential dread, you'll find plenty of interesting ideas and encouragement in this 15 minute Shmuz. 

Listen now.

Thoughts lead to feelings. But it’s not so easy to change your thoughts. Even if you are leading a life filled with purpose and meaning, negative thought patterns can hold back your happiness. Rabbi Shafier offers practical guidance from a Torah perspective in this indispensable class.

If you’re ready to shake off the dust of inertia and start acting like a tzelem Elokim, listen to this year’s Teshuvah Shmuz!

A response to tragic events.

Give Elsie the cow a field and some grass, and she’s happy. Completely content. But Man doesn’t work that way. No matter what a man has, he is always aspiring for more- looking for a better deal, a bigger house, a more fulfilling career. It seems that man is never satisfied. In this shiur, Rabbi Shafier discusses why it is that Hashem made us crave more, and how we can use this desire to achieve real fulfilment. 

I recently discovered an incredible chiddush in the Pele Yoetz.

It’s to do with the soul of man.

High-falootin’ concepts not for you? Keep reading. It’s totally relatable.

The Pele Yoetz tells us that there are ‘seasons’ to the soul. Meaning, there are times when it’s just easier to feel happiness…or to experience genuine yiras shomayim…or even feel an overwhelming, deep love for Hashem.

And this is not just for tzadikim. You don’t need to be on some incredible madreiga to tap into this force. So how do we do it? How can a regular Jew experience an awe-inspiring, life changing Rosh Hashanah?

Listen to this electrifying Shmuz to find out.