Melbourne has often been named one of the most livable cities in the world. Lesser known, but most important, is that this “shtetl” is famous for its kindness—it’s hachnasat orchim—generously hosting and caring for its guests, and for the enormous compassion that the people have for each other.
I signal her for a ride but she seems to be ignoring me. What nerve! She is sitting comfortably in her nearly empty, air-conditioned car and is patently ignoring me.
I grew up eating kosher at home, but I had no idea how to go about making a kitchen kosher I also didn’t know how to cook, let alone for a bunch of people!
It is so much easier to be sensitive to others in a professional environment. It’s much harder to be sensitive to friends and family who are in one’s immediate circle.
The good thing is, G‑d didn’t just leave us with a list of commandments. He also gave us the ability to understand the meaning and symbolism behind many of the mitzvahs so that they don’t remain dry.
It began with a late-night text from Dena, a close friend of mine: “Don’t want you to worry, but we had a fire. Thank G‑d, we managed to get out in time, but the house is gone.”