This video is of a family that has many guests in their home for Shabbos. Them and the guests are participating in Havadalah( a prayer before welcoming the new week)
What's so special is that besides sharing Shabbos with others in their own home, they have a website to help others share Shabbos together by matching up hosts with guests shabbat.com Baruch Hashem, may they continue their excellent work.
A frum girl on the westcoast, and writing what's on my mind. Please check out my older post as well with different topics, thanks
In life, we can either let our experiences make us bitter, or we can channel that feeling towards being a good example in order to improve things.
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Showing posts with label chesed. Show all posts
Showing posts with label chesed. Show all posts
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Tuesday, November 09, 2010
From sorrow to joy
I told something like this to a friend and now to you
Life can be hard
we wonder sometimes why.
Pain and darkness
in different places;
It can be overwhelming.
Someone comes in
with a listening ear
and caring heart.
And turns the darkness
to light.
The world can be harsh,
our job is to do positive acts
thereby mending our
surroundings and
our world.
Always remember,
that while there's sorrow,
there's also hope
and beautiful world

Life can be hard
we wonder sometimes why.
Pain and darkness
in different places;
It can be overwhelming.
Someone comes in
with a listening ear
and caring heart.
And turns the darkness
to light.
The world can be harsh,
our job is to do positive acts
thereby mending our
surroundings and
our world.
Always remember,
that while there's sorrow,
there's also hope
and beautiful world
Monday, April 26, 2010
Lets be who we should be
I was reading something in a paper, and the lady had a good point. She mentioned that sometimes we hear a lot of negative things going on like so-and-so did this and that and so on. And it gets to us after awhile. And she is right that it's not the way to be. We have so much potential and can truely be great individuals if we choose to be.
For example, I read an inspiring story about this person who decided to look for a better job, and so he told his boss about his request to leave. His boss told him to not tell anyone because he was very well like and they'd be disappointed, and so he didn't. Later, on the day he was leaving, he decided to tell one person working there. They were very sad that he was leaving because he was the only one that said good morning to them, which influenced others to say good morning too. - It's amazing what a small deed becomes.
While trying to look for inspiring examples, I found this.
This article is from January 2009
Shabbos of Chizuk
In general, whether we do something small like say good morning to someone, or do something big like volunteer somewhere, this is what we should be, a holy nation spreading light and blessing.
For example, I read an inspiring story about this person who decided to look for a better job, and so he told his boss about his request to leave. His boss told him to not tell anyone because he was very well like and they'd be disappointed, and so he didn't. Later, on the day he was leaving, he decided to tell one person working there. They were very sad that he was leaving because he was the only one that said good morning to them, which influenced others to say good morning too. - It's amazing what a small deed becomes.
While trying to look for inspiring examples, I found this.
This article is from January 2009
Shabbos of Chizuk
In general, whether we do something small like say good morning to someone, or do something big like volunteer somewhere, this is what we should be, a holy nation spreading light and blessing.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
LETS PUT SOME JOY IN IT tip for parents and teachers
On chinuch
Some times, if children are just told what to do but are not shown the beauty in it, then it could be hard to feel the joy of the mitzvos. My tip is that we should help children to enjoy practicing by showing them the beauty and joy, instead of just saying what to do. In order for them to continue it, they need to want to.
If the kid(like a teen) wants to do something that's not the best idea, explain to them why it's not such a good idea, instead of just no. And let them make small decisions, so they understand for themself. They might find you are right. -- They need both structure and space.
This family is a good example of bringing out the joy in Shabbos;
We don't need to do exactly the same(having so many guests) but we can take a lesson and incorporate the beauty of Shabbos in our lives
http://themachliscampaign.com/about2.php
Some times, if children are just told what to do but are not shown the beauty in it, then it could be hard to feel the joy of the mitzvos. My tip is that we should help children to enjoy practicing by showing them the beauty and joy, instead of just saying what to do. In order for them to continue it, they need to want to.
If the kid(like a teen) wants to do something that's not the best idea, explain to them why it's not such a good idea, instead of just no. And let them make small decisions, so they understand for themself. They might find you are right. -- They need both structure and space.
This family is a good example of bringing out the joy in Shabbos;
We don't need to do exactly the same(having so many guests) but we can take a lesson and incorporate the beauty of Shabbos in our lives
http://themachliscampaign.com/about2.php
Sunday, September 27, 2009
making a difference
There's going to be a basketball game here on Oct 20 involving the Los Angeles Clippers and the Maccabi Tel Aviv team.
The proceeds go to a youth villiage in Israel named Migdal Ohr which helps disadvantaged children; The organization was started by Rabbi Grossman who's from Jerusalem; Even without superpowers, it's truely amazing what one person can do, Baruch Hashem
Here's a video of the place there
The proceeds go to a youth villiage in Israel named Migdal Ohr which helps disadvantaged children; The organization was started by Rabbi Grossman who's from Jerusalem; Even without superpowers, it's truely amazing what one person can do, Baruch Hashem
Here's a video of the place there
Monday, August 31, 2009
Meaningful summer
The summer is almost gone, and autumn is just around the corner. It was a nice summer here, BH
But the most meaningful summer I've had, was many years ago when I volunteered in a daycamp for children with special needs. The ratio was one to two campers per counselor. And the bond they built was amazing as they went on field trips and did different activities like drama plays, sports, custume day etc. The joy that both the campers and counselors felt during that summer is priceless, and the memories, timeless.
I still do volunteering sometimes like Tomchei Shabbos on Thurs. and help pack boxes of food. On the one hand, it's nice to see friends there. But more than that, it's nice to be doing something to help others
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Ps, there's more of this in a past post
But the most meaningful summer I've had, was many years ago when I volunteered in a daycamp for children with special needs. The ratio was one to two campers per counselor. And the bond they built was amazing as they went on field trips and did different activities like drama plays, sports, custume day etc. The joy that both the campers and counselors felt during that summer is priceless, and the memories, timeless.
I still do volunteering sometimes like Tomchei Shabbos on Thurs. and help pack boxes of food. On the one hand, it's nice to see friends there. But more than that, it's nice to be doing something to help others
-
Ps, there's more of this in a past post
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Tuesday, June 02, 2009
Just want to share
Below is a link to message that someone mentioned about a great album for a great cause; A TIME "an organization that '"is the premier, internationally acclaimed organization that offers advocacy, education, guidance, research and support through [its] many programs to Jewish men, women, and couples struggling with reproductive health and infertility.""
Click here
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Click here
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Sunday, April 26, 2009
Come on in
This speaker Mrs. Palatnik gives a beautiful message about Hachnassat Orchim . There are many people in different places who do this great mitzva.
I remember when I went to Chicago and stayed at a middle aged woman's house for about a week. The host and I shmoozed and shmoozed like we are girlfriends catching up. - For Shabbos, we went to a family next door and had a very nice time there.
Many people have their own way of doing this, depending on what they can do. Of course, some might not be able to do this because of some circumstances. In this case, there are plenty of other things we can do. - And for those who are able to, it is very nice to do.
Mrs. Palatnik, Bed and breakfast
I remember when I went to Chicago and stayed at a middle aged woman's house for about a week. The host and I shmoozed and shmoozed like we are girlfriends catching up. - For Shabbos, we went to a family next door and had a very nice time there.
Many people have their own way of doing this, depending on what they can do. Of course, some might not be able to do this because of some circumstances. In this case, there are plenty of other things we can do. - And for those who are able to, it is very nice to do.
Mrs. Palatnik, Bed and breakfast
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
another tag
prag mentions an excellent assignment where you say a chesed that someone did for you. And so I decided to do it.
After dinner this Tues. evening, my friend called and asked me if I would like to go to a certain shiur and I said yes. She couldn't go herself but she knew someone who was and told me that they'll take me. And so I went with a couple of friends to the shiur and it was amazing. I'm so glad she called and asked.
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After dinner this Tues. evening, my friend called and asked me if I would like to go to a certain shiur and I said yes. She couldn't go herself but she knew someone who was and told me that they'll take me. And so I went with a couple of friends to the shiur and it was amazing. I'm so glad she called and asked.
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Sunday, May 07, 2006
What an experience
shoshana tagged me to write an Israel experience that I had or one that I heard. Since I haven't been to Israel (yea, I know I need to go ASAP) I'll post about something I read.
I love this article by Sara Yocheved Rigler called
A Taste Of Heaven which is about this lovely couple in Jerusalem who invite and have a huge number of guests in their home for Shabbos and Yom Tov. Eventhough a lot of people there have a lot of guests, this couple has an extraordinary amount and they keep it up every shabbos.
Here's a piece from the article
""For more than two decades Rabbi Mordechai and Henny Machlis have opened their home to an amazing assortment of Shabbat guests. Every week 60-100 guests show up for Friday night dinner, and an equal number for Shabbat lunch. Who comes? Travelers, yeshiva students, university students, the homeless, the mentally ill, Hadassah ladies, tourists, lost souls, U.J.A. mission visitors, new immigrants, drunkards, widows, orphans, Sar El volunteers for Israel, Birthright participants, and truth seekers.
While most of their guests are from English-speaking countries, the Machlis family has hosted people from every continent, and from countries as far away as Japan, China, and the Philippines.
Some people come hungry for food -- the ample helpings of home-cooked gefilte fish, chicken soup, chicken with barbeque sauce, at least three kinds of kugel, an array of salads, vegetarian alternatives, and four kinds of cake. Of course, destitute souls could pick up food at a public soup kitchen, but what is Shabbat without Shabbat songs and words of Torah, which Rabbi Machlis provides as profusely as his wife's cooking?
Some people come hungry for love and warmth. Two orphaned young women in their early twenties have an apartment and good jobs, but on Shabbat they miss the family atmosphere they once knew. A refined 67-year-old widow ate alone every Shabbat for five years after her husband died; her independent persona dissuaded her friends from inviting her. Now all three enjoy the palpable warmth of the Machlis table.
Some people come for the spiritual inspiration and unconditional acceptance Rabbi Machlis radiates. Religious and secular guests sit side-by-side, most wearing kipot, some opting not to. Most people say the appropriate blessings, often for the first time; some opt not to. Everyone is encouraged to say a few words, of introduction or wisdom or personal reflection. Everyone is lovingly received.""
When I eventually go to Israel IY'H, I would love to check out this experience.
I love this article by Sara Yocheved Rigler called
A Taste Of Heaven which is about this lovely couple in Jerusalem who invite and have a huge number of guests in their home for Shabbos and Yom Tov. Eventhough a lot of people there have a lot of guests, this couple has an extraordinary amount and they keep it up every shabbos.
Here's a piece from the article
""For more than two decades Rabbi Mordechai and Henny Machlis have opened their home to an amazing assortment of Shabbat guests. Every week 60-100 guests show up for Friday night dinner, and an equal number for Shabbat lunch. Who comes? Travelers, yeshiva students, university students, the homeless, the mentally ill, Hadassah ladies, tourists, lost souls, U.J.A. mission visitors, new immigrants, drunkards, widows, orphans, Sar El volunteers for Israel, Birthright participants, and truth seekers.
While most of their guests are from English-speaking countries, the Machlis family has hosted people from every continent, and from countries as far away as Japan, China, and the Philippines.
Some people come hungry for food -- the ample helpings of home-cooked gefilte fish, chicken soup, chicken with barbeque sauce, at least three kinds of kugel, an array of salads, vegetarian alternatives, and four kinds of cake. Of course, destitute souls could pick up food at a public soup kitchen, but what is Shabbat without Shabbat songs and words of Torah, which Rabbi Machlis provides as profusely as his wife's cooking?
Some people come hungry for love and warmth. Two orphaned young women in their early twenties have an apartment and good jobs, but on Shabbat they miss the family atmosphere they once knew. A refined 67-year-old widow ate alone every Shabbat for five years after her husband died; her independent persona dissuaded her friends from inviting her. Now all three enjoy the palpable warmth of the Machlis table.
Some people come for the spiritual inspiration and unconditional acceptance Rabbi Machlis radiates. Religious and secular guests sit side-by-side, most wearing kipot, some opting not to. Most people say the appropriate blessings, often for the first time; some opt not to. Everyone is encouraged to say a few words, of introduction or wisdom or personal reflection. Everyone is lovingly received.""
When I eventually go to Israel IY'H, I would love to check out this experience.
Monday, February 27, 2006
Beautiful story

I found this beautiful story awhile ago and was just thinking about it now and decided to share it. It's about an orphan who recieved a very generous and beautiful wedding present.
Here it is Orphan no more
Tuesday, December 06, 2005
Flashback
Were you ever a camp counselor before? I don't know about you, but for me it was very enjoyable. I mean, you got to go many different interesting places, chat with the other counselors, get paid, and were doing some productive.
The day camp I worked at some summers ago was a camp for special needs children. We didn't get paid much, but we got something, plus the feeling of doing something for others. A lot of the counselors there were girls and guys from Yula highschool. I remember looking at the guys during orientation and trying to spot the good looking ones. And some of them were good looking.
Okay, back to camp. Man, there are so many memories. The ratio was one or two campers per counselor and the bond between them was amazing. There were a few regular kids there too which was good because it benefited both types. The special needs child gained a friend (close to their age) and a helper. And the regular child gained some sensitivity to those that are different from them, which is an excellent lesson for children.
What was really special was seeing the excitment and joy that the campers felt during the trips and the on campus activities. The camp director told us that this is the highlight of their year. I think the bond b/t counselor and camper showed most during the dancing that we did every Friday. Separate of course, guys here and girls there. The counselors did not hold back but went all out to make it very fun and enjoyable for them. And the music added a lot also.
At the end when camp was finished for the summer, we had counselor parties at different places. I worked there three summers and each summer, these gatherings grew to more gatherings. I don't really keep in touch with them anymore. But once in awhile I see one of them and we catch up.
The day camp I worked at some summers ago was a camp for special needs children. We didn't get paid much, but we got something, plus the feeling of doing something for others. A lot of the counselors there were girls and guys from Yula highschool. I remember looking at the guys during orientation and trying to spot the good looking ones. And some of them were good looking.
Okay, back to camp. Man, there are so many memories. The ratio was one or two campers per counselor and the bond between them was amazing. There were a few regular kids there too which was good because it benefited both types. The special needs child gained a friend (close to their age) and a helper. And the regular child gained some sensitivity to those that are different from them, which is an excellent lesson for children.
What was really special was seeing the excitment and joy that the campers felt during the trips and the on campus activities. The camp director told us that this is the highlight of their year. I think the bond b/t counselor and camper showed most during the dancing that we did every Friday. Separate of course, guys here and girls there. The counselors did not hold back but went all out to make it very fun and enjoyable for them. And the music added a lot also.
At the end when camp was finished for the summer, we had counselor parties at different places. I worked there three summers and each summer, these gatherings grew to more gatherings. I don't really keep in touch with them anymore. But once in awhile I see one of them and we catch up.
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