Yehuda Lave, Spiritual Advisor and Counselor

Yehuda Lave is an author, journalist, psychologist, rabbi, spiritual teacher and coach, with degrees in business, psychology and Jewish Law. He works  with people from all walks of life and helps them in their search for greater happiness, meaning, business advice on saving money,  and spiritual engagement

Become More Ambitious

Imagine how much you and others would gain by your being
more ambitious. What would you undertake if you were to
increase your level of ambition?

Utilize everything you know about motivating yourself to
increase your level of ambition.

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Is it Halachically Okay to Question G-d? By Rabbi Ephriam Sprecher

Recently the OU Israel Center showed a thought provoking and disturbing film called “G-d On Trial”. The film is about Jews in Auschwitz who hold a “trial” accusing G-d for allowing the Holocaust.

But over 3,300 years ago, the greatest of all prophets, Moshe Rabbeinu, also accuses and questions G-d. "Why G-D, have You brought evil on this people? Is this why You sent me? Ever since I went to Pharaoh to speak in Your name, he has brought evil on this people, and You have not rescued Your people at all." (Shemot 5).

G-D responds by promising Moshe, that the redemption will come, and it will overshadow all previous Divine Miracles. But in relating this, the Torah uses a name for G-D which is reserved for moments when He delivers stern judgement. The Midrash picks up on this, suggesting Divine displeasure with Moshe. While G-D is redeeming His people, Moshe's accusations and complaints are not appreciated.

Rabbi S.R. Hirsch sees in G-D's reply to Moshe a call to faith. He points out that although G-D loved our Forefathers, and made many promises to them, their lives were afflicted by infertility, suffering and famine.

G-D could have intervened to solve the problems of our Patriarchs and Matriarchs, but He held back, demanding patience from His beloved Avot. G-D's plan was to forge us into a nation with free will, to experience suffering, and still have faith in G-D.

Rav Hirsch's message affirms the Talmudic statement that everything that G-D does is for the good. We must accept our limited role in the Divine Plan to build a moral and ethical world. Moshe is hurt and afflicted by the misery of the Jews in Egypt, and we sense the continuation of that suffering through Jewish history to the Holocaust and our own Arab terrorism. Moshe's question of why we suffer seems not only legitimate, but also how we feel.

For those tormented by these matters, it is the Lubavitcher Rebbe, who comes to the rescue. He appreciates Moshe's need and ours to question G-d, and empathizes with our frustration. Moshe's prophetic brilliance, says the Rebbe, brought him closer than any other human being to understanding G-D.

But even Moshe's intellectual relationship with G-D had its limitations. This made it hard for him to deal with painful situations that he could not understand or explain. According to the Talmud (Berachot 7A), Moshe never understood why good people must suffer. Like many of us who are troubled by this problem, he questions G-D, not to challenge, but to seek answers and draw closer to the Almighty.

While empathizing with Moshe's frustration and admiring his determination to fathom the will of G-D, the Torah gives G-D the last word. Moshe and us should not spend our lives frustrated by our inability to understand everything about the Divine Will. We must, says the Lubavitcher Rebbe, move on, and accept that not everything that G-d does can be comprehended.

Moshe and us must draw on our spiritual resources to overcome the intellectual gaps in our relationship with G-D. This is the lesson for us all.

According to Kabala, every verse in the Torah corresponds to a calendar years of world history. The 5,705th verse in the Torah, states “The hidden and the inexplicable happenings in life only Hashem our G-d knows why.” (Devarim 29:28) What is amazing about this verse is that the year 5705 which corresponds to this incredible verse is the secular year 1945. That is the year when the horrors of the Holocaust were fully revealed and people wondered why. ONLY G-D KNOWS WHY THE HOLOCAUST HAPPENED!

As the Talmud (Berachot 12) teaches, we have every reason to be optimistic. Because ultimately, G-D will redeem us, with a Final Redemption greater even than the Exodus of Egypt.

Sheinkin Street Tel Aviv 122418

After seeing the great synagogue and the Independence trail in Tel Aviv, the lover complete their day by going up the charming and eccentric Sheinkin Street on the way back to the free train to Jerusalem after a warm and beautiful day

Shenkin Street: one of Tel Aviv’s coolest streets to stroll down

Shenkin Street is one of the most famous, happening streets in Tel Aviv. Considered to be a local attraction for over 20 years, the renovations through 2012 that have converted the street into a pedestrian paradise, have rejuvenated a street that really does epitomize the Tel Aviv spirit. And with it’s proximity to some of Tel Aviv’s other must-sees, such as Carmel Market and Nachalat Binyamin, you really should squeeze in a visit to this part of town.

In its past many of the city’s most inspirational alternative music and theater and dance groups emerged from Shenkin Street, primarily during the 1980s. Today things are a bit more mainstream but it remains a popular location with its many cafes and funky little stores keeping this area alive.

What NOT to miss if you’re in a shopping mood

There is plenty to do on Shenkin Street. As the location of many of Israel’s coolest designers the area is a shopping paradise with a broad range of wares from clothes to gifts to choose from. For designer clothes you can’t go wrong with Ronen Chen (49 Shenkin Street) and Naama Bezalel and Banot – Luli Liam (40 Shenkin Street). New on the street is Carmen Miranda (22 Shenkin Street), a collection of Brazilian fashion (we’re talking bikinis, shoes, jewelry, clothes, beach towels, etc) – worth checking out.

If you are after some interesting jewelry pieces, designer Michal Negrin (37 Shenkin Street) will be able to assist. There are a plethora of shoe shops to browse, but Daniella Lehavi (35 Shenkin Street) is famed for her shoes and leather bags. Music lovers should certainly check out trendy music shop Krembo (18 Shenkin Street).

Other popular shops on the street include Luchy (13 Shenkin Street), a cute shop which offers simple items at a very affordable price, great for those on a budget. Elite is another option offering great items in a pleasant setting. If second-hand bargains are a favorite, head to Shtaim (Two) (38 Shenkin Street). Dig around in this renowned second hand store and you may be delightfully surprised with what you find. You could also take a trip to Asia by stepping through the door of The Third Eye. Located on 7 Shenkin Street you can browse and purchase clothes that have been imported from India, Thailand and other Asian countries, giving you the chance to find something just a little unique. One last shop to recommend is Uri Kling who is located near the Rothschild Street end. He has some amazing jewelry and small furniture pieces to browse.**

The street also has a tiny park situated half way down, which is a nice place to stop and people watch. But if you are seeking refreshments during your shopping break, there is no better place than Café Tamar. This Tel Aviv landmark at 57 Shenkin Street has been serving coffee to an eclectic mix of customers ranging from Israel’s top politicians, journalists and artists alike for over 40 years. Another healthy option is to grab a juice at one of the colorful juice stands in the street.

If you are looking for more sustenance than coffee and pastries or juice, we’d recommend you visit Orna and Ella (one of our ten awesome Tel Aviv restaurants). A firm favorite and by far the best restaurant in the area, this is the nicest spot to grab a bite to eat.

Given the popularity of this area, you should avoid visiting on Fridays when things generally get very crowded. If crowds and buzz are your thing, there is no better time than a Friday to put yourself in the midst of Shenkin Street’s bustling sidewalks while grabbing some shopping and then jostling for a lunchtime spot. If you’d rather have the street a little more to yourself, try any other day.

Shenkin Street, a Tel Aviv street well worth a stroll down. And here’s a great little clip to give you a taste of life on the Street…

** Note that by the time you visit, some of these stores may no longer be alive and kicking, as many stores come and go…

A stroll down Shenkin Street - the shops that stood the test of time

Once Tel Aviv’s trendiest shopping lane, these boutiques have thrived and survived the Shenkin street curse

By Jennifer Greenberg | Posted: Sunday October 2 2016

Fashionistas from all walks of earth swarm the busy Tel Aviv streets year round on a hunt for fierce fashion. While the less versed travelers are drawn to big shopping malls and smaller markets that test out their haggling skills, the real magic takes place inside the city’s boutiques, which house cutting edge Israeli and international designers. From the hip Showroom on Rothschild Boulevard to designer digs on Dizengoff, shopping in Tel Aviv has never been so popular. That’s why we’ve come up with a personalized style guide to the best fashion boutiques in Tel Aviv to fulfill your shopaholic needs. Leave the cash at home, this trip will need some serious platinum.

Share Tweet Designer boutique shopping in Tel Aviv 1 © Keren Lachman Shopping Belle & Sue White City

As Israel’s first online retailer, Belle & Sue broke boundaries entering the market six years ago. Today this sister duo has opened a chic storefront on Shenkin Street. Belle & Sue regularly hosts highly popular sample sales and stocks colorful brands like Mara Hoffman and Jeffrey Campbell. Here you’ll find cheerful and colorful bucket bags by State alongside a large selection of Cheap Monday denim and clothing. In addition to women's and men's clothing, Belle & Sue offers a gorgeous summer smattering of tableware by NYC-based lifestyle line ODEME. Pop into Bell & Sue for the latest fashion and cute household accessories.

Read more 2 © PR Shopping, Boutiques Story Sarona

“How many people have you met today? What do they know about you? Most of them don’t know a thing. But everyone saw what you were wearing.” This is the inspiration behind Story fashion boutiques. Each of the seven shops scattered across Tel Aviv has a individual personality to it, yet there is one constant: carefully chosen brands that showcase cutting edge fashion from around the world. At Story, they travel the world to find clothes, shoes and accessories that create people who stretch and refine the language of fashion, invent new dialects and use it to convey their own unique message. With new brands like Nudie Jeans, Melissa, Fornarina and Bloch, unravel the story behind every scarf, pair of jeans, piece of leather and accessory.

Read more Advertising 3 Guy Nahum Levy Shopping Razili Tel Aviv - Jaffa

Razili is one of Israel’s most unique stores because it has been instrumental in pushing independent fashion design from Tel Aviv to the rest of the country. Alongside young and new Israeli designers, Razili also manages to feature a variety of well-known worldwide designers, sure to impress. The Razili customer is guaranteed an exceptional shopping experience as clothes, bags, shoes and jewelry can all be found in this special boutique. Come discover the newest Israeli designers and appreciate the well-known international ones in this charming boutique. Rumor has it that when the Rolling Stones last performed in Israel, they were sporting Razili suits. Stay tuned...

Read more 4 Verner Shopping Verner White City

The Verner Boutique brings us top designers and brands. Some are based in Israel, while others are internationally recognized such as: Acne Studios, Alexander Wang, Martin Margiela, Mansur Gavriel, Comme de Garcons, Ole Johnson and more. Today, the boutique is located in the heart of Tel Aviv on Yehuda Halevi Street, just steps from the famous Rothschild Blvd. Step onto the sleek concrete floor of this fashion paradise and prepare to find current, one of a kind pieces that are not available anywhere else.  

Read more Advertising 5 © PR Shopping, Boutiques Numéro 13 Neve Tzedek

The gorgeous building housing Numéro 13 is more than 100 years old, housed in two apartments connected by a shared patio, showering the space with light. Elise, the shop’s owner and a respected figure in the local retail world, also owns Boutique Elise, located just down the street. The huge space gives way to a curated mix (there’s even a hairdresser in one of the open spaces).The wares are dripping with European chic and artful taste, but expect to spend a pretty shekel.

Read more 

Showroom White City

CEO and founder Ilan Levy founded Showroom Tel Aviv just one year ago, yet the store has the reputation of a long running establishment. As the former CEO and owner of fashion chain Tag Woman, Levy knows a thing or two about fashion. Responsible for establishing and branding companies in Israel and abroad, Levy created Showroom Tel Aviv to insure his lasting influence on Israeli fashion culture. Showroom has unique and special contracts with many fashion companies acting as the sole dealer in Israel for many in-demand brands. Stop by Showroom for a stylish wardrobe update.

Read more

7 © Rotem Rachel Chen Shopping Common Raven Shuk HaPishpeshim

After graduating from Istituto Marangoni in Milan and gaining work experience in both Milan and London, Rachel decided to bring her talents back to Israel and open this stunning store. This decision stemmed from a desire to combine an European sense and passion for quality with her local Middle Eastern heritage. Located in the old city of Jaffa, the studio stands in what used to be the family's metal recycling factory. Consistently paying attention to the smallest of details, Common Raven's accessories and jewelry are all made from recycled metals that are taken from the factory and cast into individual hand-made works of art. Common Raven is the perfect place to pick up a unique piece of recycled jewelry.

Read more 8 © PR Shopping Banker Old North

Offering a good mix of both Israeli and European designers, Banker has clothes for many occasions. Featuring two full floors of designer items in a chic ambiance, fashionable ladies have no problem getting lost in here for an entire afternoon. The staff is super friendly and knowledgeable, so don’t be shy to reach out for some friendly assistance. With premium denim brands such as Religion and American Vintage, premium brands from Los Angeles to Paris and an expertly selected collection of vintage accessories makes, it’s no wonder Banker is the leading Tel Aviv boutique.

Read more Advertising 9 ORIT PNINI Shopping, Boutiques Precious Tel Aviv City Center

Urban fashion, vintage style, accessories, daytime and evening wear, the list is neverending at Precious fashion boutique. The boutique offers an exclusive selection of leading fashion brands such as Solana, Jeffrey Campbell, Melissa, Ben Simon, Lee Jean, Cheap Monday, and so many more. All of the brands are individually chosen to form a perfect combination of European and Israeli designers. Alongside a collection of fashionable shoes and apparel, you’ll find the hottest accessories like designer sunglasses, purses and tote bags. Treat yourself to some retail therapy; we all deserve a little something precious in our lives.

Read more 10 © PR Shopping, Boutiques Scorcher White City

It’s a known fact that the turnover rate of shops on Shenkin street is incredibly high, but no matter what’s happening on this hip street, one boutique shop has managed to stand the test of time. Perhaps it is due to Scorcher’s dynamic collection, which includes international and Israeli brands like R13, HTC, Cotton Citizen, Campomaggi and Fineparis, or maybe it’s the teamwork of the mother-daughter duo that runs the place, or possibly the fact that every time you pass by and peak in, its windows have been organized into a different masterpiece. No matter the reason, the super chic boutique has handpicked the best brands in the world for over 20 years and shows no signs of slowing down. Swing by, admire the window displays and pick up your stylish piece of Scorcher today.

Medical Insurance (HMO) Explained

Q. What does HMO stand for?

A. This is actually a variation of the phrase, "HEY MOE." Its roots go back
to a concept pioneered by Moe of the Three Stooges, who discovered that
a patient could be made to forget about the pain in his foot if he was
poked hard enough in the eyes.

_____________________________

Q. I just joined an HMO. How difficult will it be to choose the doctor I
want?


A. Just slightly more difficult than choosing your parents. Your insurer
will provide you with a book listing all the doctors in the plan. These
doctors basically fall into two categories - those who are no longer
accepting new patients, and those who will see you but are no longer
participating in the plan. But don't worry; the remaining doctor who is
still in the plan and accepting new patients has an office just a
half-day's drive away, and a diploma from a Third World country.

_____________________________


Q. Do all diagnostic procedures require pre-certification?

A. No. Only those you need.

_____________________________


Q. Can I get coverage for my pre-existing conditions?

A. Certainly, as long as they don't require any treatment.

_____________________________


Q. What happens if I want to try alternative forms of medicine?

A. You'll need to find alternative forms of payment.

_____________________________


Q. My pharmacy plan only covers generic drugs, but I need the name
brand. I tried the Generic Medication, but it gave me a stomach ache. What should
I do?

A. Poke yourself in the eye, hard.

_____________________________


Q. What if I'm away from home and I get sick?

A. You really shouldn't do that.

_____________________________


Q. I think I need to see a specialist, but my doctor insists he can
handle my problem. Can a general practitioner really perform a heart transplant
right in his office?

A. Hard to say, but considering that all you're risking is the $20
co-payment, there's no harm in giving him a shot at it.

_____________________________


Q. Will health care be different in the next century?

A. No. But if you call right now, you might get an appointment by then.

_____________________________

Expositions

by Fabrice Schomberg

There was once

a people who found explanations for everything— explanations for right and explanations for wrong; why to do this and when to do that.  Each contradicted the other with explanations and sometimes with even better explanations that they had first determined.  At other times they would contrive worse explanations, but they had explanations for those as well— some good ones, some bad ones, some simple and some complicated; some even as simple as they were complex and others merely presented with a complex, simple formality.

 “Devise and become wise,” they said.

 For each of these explanations a committee of explainers explained things further and they would either quarrel or not quarrel at all and all agree.  This made things easy as they couldn't explain why they could all agree with each other and they would try to explain that as well, until they couldn't agree anymore and everybody was happy.

 One day an explanation came up.  It explained everything, but really everything, in a simple way, and ta-da! things became so simple and easy, yes or no, true or false, nothing as elaborate as things once used to be.  The people were dazzled by this, and couldn't explain it themselves. Nor could the person who came up with the explanation explain it because he had died, and no one knew why— something else they couldn't fathom.  Then things became quite complicated because suddenly the people couldn't explain a thing, from life after death, to birth before it and what is in between and why are we here. There must be a good reason for that, they thought.  Some didn’t though, so some said yes and some said no, some said true and some said false.

 Those who said yes, became believers, those who said no became rational.  Those who said true were considered idolatrous and those who said false were considered to be those of faith.  Nothing was as it was. Explanations became reasons, reasons became biased intentions. In turn, these became emotions which started a war on their own intelligence.  Some said there was no explanation for that, but, in the end, these people vowed to start explaining themselves to better understand each other before jumping to conclusions.

This story is based on many explanations for nothing.

edited by Janet Cartlidge

www.sketchedworlds.com/stories

copyright © 2018 Fabrice Schomberg

See you tomorrow

Love Yehuda Lave