Leiv Esther

Helping an Orphan Chatan - Slight Progress

2012-01-23T18:29:00.000+02:00

We have a little progress for our latest couple - Olim Chadashim. The Chatan was orphaned from his father when a young teen. Over the period of 3 months he lost his father, uncle and grandfather. Things have not been easy for this young Chatan, but Baruch Hashem he is now in Eretz Yisrael and about to come to Chuppah.

His Kallah also has no family support and was sadly dis-owned by her parents.

The Chuppah is scheduled for Zayin Shvat 5772.

A few donations are trickling in, in potential anyway. They still need co-ordinating and to be gathered together before they reach the new couple.

The image on the left is of one of the Seforim that has already been given to the couple.

We still need a driver to drive the Kallah to her Chuppah.

We need donations for:

a new suit for the Chatan, new shirt for him for the Chuppah and a Shtender, Judaica and Seforim for their Bayit Chadash

We need some couples in Nachlaot / Sharei Chessed / Old City areas to host Sheva Brachos for them.

We don't have much time for this couple, so please donate generously and quickly.

If you have a store and can donate items from your Maaser or you make any household items and can donate an item, what better way to promote your business than by assisting to build up a new home. We need to know what items you will be donating to screen for appropriateness and quality. However, if you donate an item from your store, you can include a business card. Who knows, perhaps when they are more established they will come back to you with business.

Anyone who has a NEW item to donate towards their new home, please be in touch via our email

Make your Donation

Right here, Right NOW!!

Help an Orphan Chatan

2012-01-22T19:25:00.001+02:00

Our Bayit Chadash Gemach has another couple to assist. Our latest couple are two Olim Chadashim. The Chatan was orphaned from his father when a young teen. Over the period of 3 months he lost his father, uncle and grandfather. Things have not been easy for this young Chatan, but Baruch Hashem he is now in Eretz Yisrael and about to come to Chuppah.

His Kallah also has no family support and was sadly dis-owned by her parents.

The Chuppah is scheduled for Zayin Shvat 5772.

We need a driver to drive the Kallah to her Chuppah. We need donations for:

a new suit for the Chatan, new shirt for him, a Shtender, Judaica and Seforim.

We need some couples in Nachlaot / Sharei Chessed / Old City areas to host Sheva Brachos for them.

We don't have much time for this couple, so please donate generously and quickly.

Anyone who has a NEW item to donate towards their new home, please be in touch via our email

Make your Donation

Right here, Right NOW!!

Hats, Hats and More Hats

2012-01-02T15:16:00.002+02:00

A few weeks ago we received an amazing donation of a load of stunning hats. The image above shows three of the hats donated. Most of these hats are going to needy / orphan Kallot.

A few of the hats that are duplicate designs and colours are to be used in a SPECIAL SALE being planned to raise funds for other head coverings and items needed for these Bayit Chadash packages.

If any of the readers have new head coverings that can be donated to needy / orphan Kallot, please email us.

We do have one Sheitel, seen in the image below.

Other Sheitels and scarves or bandanas would be wonderful.

Stay tuned for updates on our Bayit Chadash Gemach for new Kallot, new donations and gifts both needed and that have come in and those that are needed. Also stay tuned for our upcoming Special Sale / Auction.

FaceFacts by Lori Supports Bayit Chadash Gemach

2012-01-01T15:00:00.000+02:00

Managing a Gemach to assist needy orphan Kallot and Chatanim can be a lot of fun. Sometimes takes quite a bit of leg work, but there is a lot of fun involved.

Usually we don't work on Fridays, so what do you do when a phone call comes through that there is a parcel from Chutz LeAretz and its on its way. Yes, on Friday. Well, go and collect it was the way we responded.

What fun to receive 3 purple bags. I love purple so we were already on to a good start. Then I opened one and recognised the brand of goodies immediately. More lipsticks from Lori. How exciting!! But Shabbos was coming so we closed up the purple bags and waited till after Shabbos.

Below you can see what we found in these lovely purple bags.

In the image above, you can see some lipsticks, lip liners, eye creams, eye liners and a few facial creams.

Then we opened another purple bag and found stunning blushers too and a few more facial creams

Have a look at the wonderful products for our new Kallot. Here we added some other gifts that have come in to a lipstick, lip liner and facial cream from FaceFacts by Lori.

What do you think of the package, is it coming together for items for a new Kallah? What would you add for her Mikvah Package? Please let us know what you think might be missing.

If you have a product you can donate to our Bayit Chadash Gemach, we would be happy to hear from you. If you can donate in terms of money to purchase another needed item for the Mikvah Package of a new Kallah, do email us too.

Hachnasat Kallah this Chanukah.

2011-12-20T20:45:00.001+02:00

Chanukah is a very special time to assist the poor and needy.

On the 5th day of Chanukah and on the last day of Chanukah two special Kallot are marrying, G-d willing in Eretz Yisrael.

The first Kallah is from a home blessed with 12 children but they just manage basics. Her Chatan is an orphan.

The second Kallah is an orphan herself.

We have a target of NIS 6000 to assist these two Kallot to set up their new home. The weddings are in less than a week. Please increase the light of Chanukah by assisting these Kallot. Letters of Approbation and further information can be viewed on our website.

Please make a donation to help buid these new homes. Please don't leave these couples returning home to an empty room with only a few pillows or a set of sheets and the few gifts slowly trickling in.

If you live in Jerusalem or Beitar Illit and wish to donate a new item, please email us. Time is of the essense and there is much still needed.

If you have a store and can donate items from your Maaser or you make any household items and can donate an item, what better way to promote your business than by assisting to build up a new home. We need to know what items you will be donating to screen for appropriateness and quality. However, if you donate an item from your store, you can include a business card. Who knows, perhaps when they are more established they will come back to you with business.

Make your Donation

Right here, Right NOW!!

Anyone wanting another option? Purchase a lovely gift from our online store and a percentage goes to assist this and other Kallot.

Two Weddings - Two New Homes 2

2011-12-14T13:41:00.000+02:00

Mazal Tov, Mazal Tov - Yes, 2 weddings and 2 NEW homes.

The gifts are slowly trickling in. One couple has had their Tallit sponsored and above we see a few more gifts.

If you can make out the different items there are:

a few table cloths
a set of 6 glass mugs on top of them
A toaster, two sets of Kitchen utensils
a few dish clothes
a small pot
a dish for salad or veggies and
a cute container to put pens on a desk or next to the phone.

It is very heartwarming to see these gifts coming in. But, we have Two Weddings and that means TWO new homes. Please don't leave this blog yet.

WAIT- We NEED YOU. Yes You.

How about a set of towels. How about a set of pots or at least a few more pots. How about a set of dishes for the Shabbos table.

The weddings are on 29 Kislev and 2 Tevet. That is just 2 weeks away.

Make your Donation

Right here, Right NOW!!

Anyone wanting another option? Purchase a lovely gift from our online store and a percentage goes to assist this and other Kallot.

Shidduchim

2011-12-12T11:22:00.000+02:00

There is a lot of wisdom to gain from Torah. Take for example the age that the Torah recommends Jews to marry which is 18 - 20 years. If you spend any time learning biology and you take note of the physiology of humans and how this relates to fertility the ideal age for becoming a parent co-incides with the age the Torah recommends to marry.

Sadly, in today's time, the Jewish community has begun to follow the non-Jewish trend of studying for a career, pursuing a career, having fun, touring the world and later in life settling down to get married. Of course then the 40 and 50 year old men suddenly wake up and remember they have a Mitzvah to populate the world and decide to marry women 20 years younger than they are. What they are then doing is leaving the women of their age to remain single while requesting women from a different age group. The result is a mess. Too many singles and too many who married late now desperate for children.

The answer. Don't wait to get married. From when you enter highschool, make sure that those you interact with, be it for sports, leisure time pursuits, study groups or anything else, make sure you will interact with young Jews. Why? The answer is simple, the more you ensure you surround yourself with fellow Jews who are like minded, the more chance you will have to meet the right person young and fulfill the Torah recommendation to marry young.

In years gone by, dating and Shidduchim was predominantly via a MatchMaker. If you or a loved one is Jewish, single and 18 years of age or more, please do contact Chessed Ve'Emet and join our Shidduch service. Time is precious and it passes very quickly.

So visit the website right now, read about the Shidduch service offered by Chessed Ve'Emet, book your appointmnt for your interview and let's get going to work towards your coming to Chuppah.

Looking forward to hearing from you

Shoshanah Shear

Co-Director Chesed Ve'Emet

Two Weddings - Two New Homes 1

2011-12-11T16:37:00.001+02:00

Mazal Tov, Mazal Tov, there's a wedding coming up. A wedding and another. Yay, Yay what a happy day.

Imagine you are getting married in just 2 weeks. You have a wedding to plan. This is YOUR big day.Yay, it is so very exciting. A new Jewish couple coming to Chupppah. Wow, two new Jewish couples coming to Chuppah.

WAIT- We NEED YOU. Yes You.

The Moms are trying hard but 4 pillows for one is just not a home. A set of sheets for the other is just not a home.

Thankfully gifts are slowy coming in. We have just 2 weeks ladies, so don't sit back.

One kettle, one toaster, a salad bowl. Some hats for the Kallot to choose from.

Greate EXCITEMENT, a donation towards one of the Talleisim. Still need NIS 100 towards that Tallit and of course the Tallit bag. Can't have a Chatan with a new Tallit and nothing to carry it in now could we.

One of the Kallot wishes to wear scarves to cover her hair. So far she does not have any and we have not had donations of any either.

How about some towels. If either of these couples wishes to take a nice shower or bath after the long day of the wedding, they have NOTHING to dry themselves with.

The weddings are on 29 Kislev and 2 Tevet. That is just 2 weeks away.

Please make a donation to help buid these new homes. Please don't leave these couples returning home to an empty room with only a few pillows or a set of sheets and the few gifts slowly trickling in.

Make your Donation

Right here, Right NOW!!

Anyone wanting another option? Purchase a lovely gift from our online store and a percentage goes to assist this and other Kallot.

Household Items for Orphan Couples

2011-12-11T11:01:00.001+02:00

I asked some friends which household item they regarded as the most important. How would you answer? What do you regard as THE most important household item for YOU?

One friend considered her refrigrator to be the most important, another feels her Shabbat candlesticks is the most important item in her home.

Imagine you are getting married in just 2 weeks. You have a wedding to plan. This is YOUR big day. The day of your dreams. A day you will remember for the rest of your life, G-d willing. Everyone knows the Kallah will need a special dress, her hair to look good, nice new shoes that are comfortable, new underwear, make up to make her look and feel special. The Chatan needs a new suit, new hat, new shirt, a whole new outfit. We need a hall, Chuppah, basic meal at least for guests. Most today want a photographer and at least one musical instrument to help make this day special. What else is needed?

Invitations, a means to get to the hall and home again. Oh wait a minute, did we say HOME again?

Well now, let us presume this couple has somehow managed to get at least the basics of a Jewish Kosher wedding together. The day has been wonderful. There is a car waiting to take them home. The car drives along to the address given. G-d willing somehow they found an apartment to rent.

The Chatan puts the key in the lock and "Vwalla". Yay, home sweet home. But is it? In the middle of the floor are two pillows and a blanket. The rest of the room is empty. The kitchen is empty, no refrigerator, no stove, no ....

OK, lets presume they paid a little more on rent and rented an apartment that has at least the stove and the refrigerator. Now let us presume they want something to drink. Will it be a nice glass of something cold or perhaps a cup of hot tea.... Hm, for the first they need a set of glasses and some fruit juice or something in the refrigerator, perhaps even an icecube holder. But it's winter you say. Well then, how about mugs and a kettle, some tea spoons, tea, coffee and sugar, perhaps milk and parev coffee cremer.

Now let us presume they have these basics, where will they sit, on the floor on the two pillows? How about some chairs, a table and a heater since it is winter.

Are you beginning to get the picture? Each of these items costs money. Each of these items is essential. How do you build your new home when Abba is in the next world and your Imma can only cover the basics for day to day living?

When one gets married, it is not just the Chuppah that is important, a whole new home with all the basic necessities is needed.

We have two young couples who have turned to our Bayit Chadash Gemach for assistance to begin their new home. Thus far they have just the two pillows and a blanket for the one couple and a set of linen and an outfit for the other. Yes someone actually donated a set of mugs, we still need the teaspoons. Someone kindly donated a kettle but how about a heater?

How about a vase to put the Kallah's bouquet into. How about a nice table cloth. One couple has a set of sheets, how about some towels.

The wedding is on 29 Kislev and the other on 2 Tevet. That is just 2 weeks away.

Please make a donation to help buid these new homes. Please dont leave these couples returning home to an empty room with only two pillows or a set of sheets. Just becuase one set of mugs was donated, dont think your donation is not needed too.

Make your Donation

Right here, Right NOW!!

Anyone wanting another option? Purchase a lovely gift from our online store and a percentage goes to assist this and other Kallot.

Giving to a New Home

2011-12-08T19:11:00.001+02:00

As mentioned in yesterday's post, we have two new Kallot that we are assisting in our Bayit Chadash Gemach. A little about them and the Hamlatzot can be viewed on our website.

The first Chatunah is scheduled for 29 Kislev and the second for 2nd Tevet. That means we have only 2-3 weeks to help these special Kallot to set up their new homes.

Prior to coming to us these Kallot have the following to start their new home:

One Kallah has two pillows and a blanket thus far, the other Kallah has one set of linen and an outfit for Sheva Brachos.

What can you donate?

We would love to give the Chatan who is an Orphan the Chatan Set which is the OzVeHadar Shas, Shulchan Aruch HaBahir, the complete 23 volume set of Shirat Devorah Tur and Oz VeHadar Mishna Brura

Both couples will need a good heater for the remainder of winter.

Both couples need towels.

We have one kettle how about another for the other couple?

We were donated two pots of different sizes. Both Kallot need a set of pots.

In short, any NEW item that will help to set up their new home.

Lastly we need to cover their taxi fare home with all the new items that you readers kindly donate. If you would like to donate in terms of money, please do so via our website

If you live in or around Yerushalayim and have any New items you can donate, please email us.

If you are still single and looking for a Segula to assist you to come to Chuppah, helping these Orphans to come to Chuppah is a very great Mitzvah. The Hamlatzot you will see on our website all talk of the blessing donors will receive by assisting these couples.

Thank you for your assistance. May we hear good things for Am Yisrael

Shoshanah

Hachnasat Kallah - You CAN Make a Difference

2011-12-07T18:30:00.001+02:00

Today we were approached to assist two Kallot.

We have just received the Hamlatzot for the first Kallah.

This young Kallah will be marrying, G-d wiling on Bet Tevet. She is one of 12 children and has been an Orphan from her father for 5 years now. Her mother is a single mother and very hard working. They have nothing with which to begin their Bayit Ne'eman.

We have Letters of Approbation for them from

Rav Yaakov Yosef (the eldest son of Rav Ovadya Yosef) of Mosdot Tiferet Ohel Moshe
Rav Yosef Hammany of Hashem ve Ganei Gad Yeshiva in Bnei Brak
Rav Chaim Aahron Mondrer Moreh Tzedek of the Eida HaChareidit.

If anyone is able to assist, we will be setting up a page for them on our website. However you can visit our general Bayit Chadash Gemach page. Donations are welcome both in terms of monetary donations and any New items to set up their new home. You can donate here or email us.

If someone is willing to make a sizeable donation and needs to see the Hamlatzot, please email us.

Make your Donation

Right here, Right NOW!!

Anyone wanting another option? Purchase a lovely gift from our online store and a percentage goes to assist this and other Kallot.

Kashrut Alert

2011-12-07T08:18:00.001+02:00

If you are Jewish, there are laws regarding our diet and eating known as Kashrut. Many think this relates only to not mixing meat and milk, or not eating treif meat e.g pork, camel and the other non-Kosher animals listed in the Torah.

Amongst these animals that we are not permitted to eat are bugs, worms and insects. While some know to check their rice, do you check your spices?

Have you considered checking your cereal. Perhaps you know to check oats prior to cooking. Did you know you should also check cereal that comes in a box, yes even with a Heksher (Kosher symbol) on that is ready to just add milk or non-dairy milk?

Ever considered something like CornFlakes might be a problem to eat. If Kashrut is important to you as it should be for every Jew, do yourself a favour and check your food before you eat it. Just to prove the necessity this morning we found a bug in our breakfast cereal. Yes the box has a lovely Kosher sign on it. Still checking for bugs is crucial. Dont fall by eating a worm, bug or other insect.

Check ALL your food prior to cooking, prior to serving and again prior to eatng.

New - Come and Visit!

2011-12-04T18:25:00.001+02:00

We are delighted to introduce you to our new online store.

The store is just beginning but do stop by and let us know what you think, what you like and make your purchase today.

A percentage of the proceeds goes towards our various Mitzvah Project.

We are eager to hear your feedback. Which gift is your favourite?
Would you like an image on a different item or a different image entirely?

Do let us know and buy your gift TODAY!!

Helping Needy Kallot in Israel

2011-12-01T14:31:00.001+02:00

We are still collecting for the Orphan Kallah mentioned in the previous post. In the meantime we do have some lovely gifts to give to needy Kallot.

Some readers ask "is Hachnasat Kallah a Mitzvah?" The answer is "yes, it is a very big Mitzvah, so much so that it is mentioned in our morning Brachos." Our Bayit Chadash Gemach is all about assisting needy Kallot in developing their new home.

We like movement of the gifts that are donated. Money, donations and gifts are supposed to move on to the place where they belong, not to sit stored for ages. So, while the Kallah referred to above is a special case requiring extra assistance, we do have more items to give to other Kallot.

We have some lovely new hats, still with their labels on. Eco Friendly lipsticks and liners by Lori. We have a new clock, some seforim, photo frames, Challah covers and much more.

If you would like to join this wonderful Mitzvah, please email us regarding donating.
If you are a new Kallah or know a new Kallah, please be in touch too.

Please NOTE: We ONLY assist Kallot marrying and setting up their home in Eretz Yisrael and who are Torah observant.

Preference is given to Orphans first, Baalei Teshuvah with no family support second, next Olim and Talmidei Chachamim with no support and assistance. After this we will consider other Chatanim and Kallot.

Please note, we do not assist with the wedding itself, but rather with setting up the new home, the Bayit Chadash. Kallot do need two letters of reference from recognized Orthodox rabbis who know the Kallah and Chatan and their situation.

For enquiries or to make an appointment, please email us.

We look forward to hearing from you

Shoshanah

Enable a Kallah to Give Thanks

2011-11-24T10:39:00.001+02:00

Those who are American are busy preparing a day known as Thanksgiving. What are the things in your life you give thanks for?

If you are married, did you have your dream wedding? Were your parents there? How large was it? What were the trimmings? Did everything go according to plan?

While many like to share images of stunning group photo's from a wedding, do those of you excited about a wedding of 400 - 800 guests stop and consider the Kallot who don't have this?

In Eretz Yisrael, there is a Kallah right now, who should be happy, busily preparing her special day. Instead she sits and cries. Why?

Her parents won't be there at her wedding.
Not only is she an orphan but she does not even know how to make this wedding a reality.
This is not even the first time she has been through this heartache. Already a previous engagement fell through purely because she did not have the finance or support to make her wedding a reality.

While those who have, sit and enjoy a meal with Turkey, yummy foods and think that is giving thanks, we ask you to remember those in this world who don't have. Yes there are starving in Africa and India, but think a little closer to home. Remember the Jewish orphan. Feel her pain and consider the fact that she too deserves her special day.

Please have mercy on her and give a gernerous donation. You can certainly give of Maasser for this. It is a very big Mitzvah to help a poor Orphan Kallah come to Chuppah. Make your Donation

Right here, Right NOW!!

It can be either monetary or of any NEW item suitable to build a new Jewish home in Eretz Yisrael.

Evaluating Our Tehillim Group 3

2011-11-21T16:34:00.001+02:00

While the odd comment comes trickling in, we are continuing our evaluation. Thus far we mentioned that our group meets during daylight hours on Shabbos wherever you are. The group is international which has benefits but poses certain difficulties in formulating a group rather than a list of promises that we have no idea whether they are being fulfilled or not.

We mentioned a need for interaction which needs to be from all members not just one or two. There is also a need for committment, both to the group and to reciting the Tehillim every Shabbos.

So our next idea is to have a monthly membership. People seem to value something that they pay for and are more likely to make that committment if a membership is involved.

After all if one wishes to play golf regularly, one becomes a member of a golf club. If one goes to Shul regularly one becomes a member of the Shul. If one goes to a library regularly one becomes a member of a library and so on.

The idea is that each Jewish woman joining the group pay a nominal monthly membership and can then submit as many names as they wish to according to the rules for submitting names.

Let us know what you think of the idea. If you object, let us know why. If you agree, let us know why and that you agree. Cost for membership has not yet been decided upon, ideas are welcome.

Why Do Women Become Mothers?

2011-11-20T14:48:00.001+02:00

According to modern research, the statistics of infertility has risen. What does a couple do when faced with the first few months going by and no sign of the blessing to their home. The first year, second year and more and still no blessing, in terms of children.

As you might notice from previous posts on this blog, amongst other groups of clients I work with has been the exciting and beautiful work of helping Jewish women open up to the Brachah of Children.

Some women who come for a treatment or join my special sub-group to my Tehillim group specifically for Zera Shel Kayema, share the difficult feedback they have been given by others and ask for Eitza as to how to manage with all manner of difficult comments. One group of comments has to do with being happy with what you have and not expecting more.

In various places (Duties of the Heart; Laws for women by the Ben Ish Chai etc) we are taught to spend time being grateful for our lot. While much of this exercise relates to not desiring material objects that others have, many extend it to whether or not one is blessed with children.

So let's take a look for a few moments at the benefits of not having children:

First and foremost, more time for your husband, yourself and you as a couple
No morning sickness, no labour pains, no pain of childbirth, no risk of dying during child birth

No heartache or disappointment from disabled or ill or special needs children
No wasted time at doctors or other therapists that children might need to be taken to.
No worry about which school would be appropriate or whether the teacher will care or teach effectively.
No worry about your child being exposed to the wrong crowd or teachers or any other negative influence
No worry about potential accidents
No having to be neat and keep items out of the reach of children
NO............

Would you like to complete the list?

While this exercise is important in order to value time given to you and being saved certain suffering or anguish, and to prevent on feeling anger or bitterness, if all Jewish women had this attitude we would be in the situation we were in Mitzrayim prior to Miriam talking to her parents. Well, if we go back to when Pharoah decreed no Jewish boys should be born, the time when Miriam's parents had divorced and encouraged other Jewish couples to do so too, if it were not to Miriam's wise counsel where would we be? Would we be counting our blessings at not having had children? Well, there might be a saving of suffering, disappointment etc but there would also be no Moshe Rabeinu, no leader to take us out of Mitzrayim and very probably no receivng of the Sefer Torah.

So while it is important not to feel jealousy for those couples blessed with children at the start of their marriage or even those couples forced to marry due to a baby on the way, still, there has to be a balance.

For those Jewish women reading this post, those who might spend time complaining about the very list that women without children don't go through, we want to hear, what makes YOU become mothers. If there are, in fact, a list of benefits to not having children, what is it within you that makes you want children and even more children. Please stop by and share your thoughts so as to inspire and encourage those without children to keep on striving, keep on Davening and not to give up.

And, for those women not yet blessed with children, please do be in touch. Join our support group, join our special sub-group of our Tehillim group for those married Jewish women needing the blessing of Zera Shel Kayema. Book a session and have a treatment, some have been blessed after only 1 session. It could happen to YOU too!!

We look forward to hearing from you

Shoshanah Shear

Occupational Therapist R, Healing Facilitator

Certified Infant Massage Instructor

Certified Kallah Teacher

www.beahappymom.com

Evaluating Our Tehillim Group - 2

2011-11-20T13:07:00.001+02:00

We have had one response to the start of Evaluating ourTehillim group. One of our Tehillim group members mentioned that perhaps weshould consider the progress of the group like the development of an acorn intoa tree. That is a beautiful thought.

While other women are contemplating our current status of Evaluation,here is the next thought to consider.

Most Tehillim groups take place in person. As such there is a set ofbooks that the person facilitating the group can hand out. Each of these bookscontains the Tehillim for the day as arranged if the whole Sefer Tehillim isdivided into 24 sections.

Now when the women come together to a common venue it is easy to seeand monitor how many women have attended and how many Tehillim have beenrecited. Remember there are two goals here:

Number of women attendeding and
How many Perakim of Tehillim are recited.

Can we complete the whole Sefer Tehillim and if so how many times?

Well, when the group takes place internationally, the facilitatorrelies on the group members interacting with her in order to know that they areactually reciting their Perakim of Tehillim.

We therefore need a method for women to interact. Perhaps we need toscreen the women and only accept those who agree to interact, at least every xamount of time. If so, what will the time frame be?

Some women in the group interact about once in six months, how can Iknow that they are participating?

Some have sent emails saying that they know they agreed to x amount of Tehillimbut have not yet managed to do their share. This comment proves my point andconcern exactly.

So we need some criteria here. How often should the women interact and whatmethod of interaction should we institute?

Please do send in your responses. Remember if this is to be a group,we need your interaction otherwise all it is in truth is my writing emails,posts etc, having a list of names and from my side, it appears nothing else ishappening.

I need to know what transpires on YOUR end of the group. I don't want a solo here,I want a group.

Words of Prayer, Words of Kindness - 55

2011-11-18T07:22:00.001+02:00

This Weeks Words of Prayer, Words of Kindness

is prepared in the merit of

Pidyon Shvuim for Yonaton ben Malka

Shmiras HaLashon

Be Careful Of The Words You Say.Keep Them Soft And Sweet, Because You Never Know, From Day To Day, Which OnesYou'll Have To Eat (Unknown Author – if you know the author please let me know)

Honesty in Business

Whendoing shopping make sure you have completed your shopping and your trolley orbasket is complete before entering into the queue. Do not leave your trolley orbasket to "hold" your place while you go about your shopping and keepgoing to and fro to fill your trolley, making others wait for you to completeyour shopping before they who have completed shopping can get to the cashier.

Respectthe rules of the store, if there is a fast queue for 10 items or less, don’ttry to push in with 11 or 13 or 15 items. Purchase your 10 items or less justas the queue is labelled to be.

Whensetting your prices, if the country in which you live does not have coins below10 agarot or 10 cents, don’t mark any items with digits below 10. To do sowould be stealing from the customer. e.g. if you are accustomed to charge 9.97for an item because you think that being below 10 customers will be more likelyto purchase the item, keep in mind, if there are no 7c, you are effectivelystealing 3c. Hence either charge 9.90 or 10 or make sure you have 3c to give aschange. Note you are actually accruing two Aveiras, 1) general theft ie theftof money and 2) Geneivat HaDa'at – stealing someone's mind by making them thinkthey are getting something that they are not.

This weeks blog posts:

Top of the List is a post about Evaluating our Tehillim Group. Do read it and send in only positive feedback. Over the next 2 weeks we will be evaluating and making changes.

Hachnasat Kallah, We Need Your Help

Shabbat Shalom from Eretz Yisrael

It's raining

Order - Great Method to being Successful

Real Person Lot Like You

Moving in Different Directions

The names for this week are to befound on our website

Shabbat Shalom

Shoshanah Shear

Director of the international Tehillim groupof Chessed VeEmet

Evaluating Our Tehillim Group

2011-11-17T13:27:00.001+02:00

Shalom, how nice of you to stop by and visit. (Directors note - please read this post with a friendly note and a song in your voice)

Have you heard that we have an international Tehillim group? Yes, it is a special group of Jewish women who unite around the world through reciting Tehillim EVERY Shabbat during daylight hours. Pretty cool. You got that right!

Did you know our Tehillim group has been going since 2008. Quite some time now!!

We've seen some changes, some improvements, many Yeshuos and some frustrations.

Well it is time to visit our international Tehillim group, list the strengths, the good points, find the frustrations and kick them out, making way for improvements in an ongoing journey to unity and redemption.

The first point we wish to make is that this is a group of Jewish women, meaning we are actually ALL human beings with characters, personalities, needs, desires, interests and more. Being human as opposed to machines, we want to get to know one another, after all that is how a group develops and unity can take place.

So,... step one is to let you know that I am currently wearing two hats. Yes, one is my artist hat and the other my OT hat. (Sorry, I forgot, for those of you who dont know what OT is, OT is the MOST amazing profession and the letters stand for Occupational Therapy)

Ok, for the artist I am currently sitting in front of my drawing board and sketching out a new plan. Drawing, painting, having fun. You see we want this picture to be stunning, the MOST beautiful image you can wish to set you eyes on. Right now there are a couple of areas of browns and greys. Now when those make up the trunk of a tree or an area of soil in a garden being planted, then that is positive and good and we like that, but when it is a muddy mess that covers some beautiful flowers, then we need to do some cleaning up.

Now my OT hat is a little different. My OT hat helps me remember some info. about groups, group development, facilitating groups, evaluating, re-evaluating hm and a whole lot more theory there too. My OT hat says action is needed. My OT hat says that in order to make the evaluation effective we need to identify some points.

So our drawing board has some creativity taking place and also some lists of facts.

We invite you to join us to add to the list. Let us know what you have enjoyed, what you would like to see remaining just as it is and what you would like to see changing.

One aspect we have already identified. We tried to aim for 1000 Jewish women and quickly found it is a battle to get close to 200, to be honest when we are about 40 women, the group seems to be more of a group. So our first point to identify is less quantity and more quality.

We have more ideas forming on our drawing board, but do stop by, leave us a note or give us a call. We want to hear your positive feedback too.

Over the next 2 weeks or so, we will be drawing, sketching, painting, cleaning up, taking notes, making lists and formulating a new plan of action.

This new year of 5772 we hope to see a new improved international Tehillim group.

Join us for the ride, it might be a bit of a journey, but a the end we look forward to the beauty emerging, rather like the spectacular butterfly coming out of her cocoon.

Hachnasat Kallah - We Need YOUR Help

2011-11-16T19:42:00.001+02:00

We are busy in our Bayit Chadash Gemach. We have items to collect, inventory to take, and a new Chatan and Kallah to assist.

Our new couple has a wedding coming up prior to Chanukah so the first item on the list is a Chanukiah. Of course, being newly weds they will need either candles or olive oil and wicks to accompany the Chanukiah.

Being orphaned at a young age, we would like to give the Chatan something special to remember his parent and found a stunning Yartzheit candle holder. It is important to have something in ones home that connects one to our parents and when one of the parents is no longer with us, making the Yartzheit something special and attractive helps to beautify this Mitzvah rather than lead to depression and grief.

Other items on the list for the new Chatan are a new Jacket for winter, a heater, a book shelf for Seforim and a special Shabbos Tallit and Tallit bag.

There are other items needed too, so please help us to help another Jewish couple.

Please help us to continue this improtant work, we can't do it without YOU. How do you help? By making a donation either monetary or of any NEW item suitable to build a new Jewish home in Eretz Yisrael.

Words of Prayer, Words of Kindness 54

2011-11-11T08:30:00.001+02:00

Thisweeks Words of Prayer, Words of Kindness isprepared

inthe merit of

Chaya Leora bas Devorah Gitta for Refuat HeNefesh and Refuat HaGuf

This Shabbatwill be the Yartzheit of Rav Yehuda Leon Patilon and hence we decided to sharea few thoughts about him. Rav Yehuda Leon was a Hidden Tzaddik who wasknown to be a simple and modest person. He did not eat or sleep much and wasknown as the "Holy Painter/ Artist".

He was an outstandingartist and made his Parnassa through selling his paintings. He sold hispaintings ONLY for what he felt they were worth without inflating the price atall, so much so that on his tomb stone is written: "Praised be the one whodid his business dealings in this world honestly", something that most ofus (especially of today's time) are unable to achieve. He was known to gowithout many times rather than charge more than he would feel the painting washonestly worth.

Rav Yehuda Leon was stillsingle later in life and was about 40 years old when he got married. When stillsingle he went to a Hidden Tzaddik for a Brachah and Tefillot and was given theBrachah that from this day to 40 days you will meet your Bat Zivug, and so itwas.

After he gotmarried when he continued in his holy work even when his living quarters was inthe section of the passageway of the apartment of others, this also served ashis art studio, he was filled with happiness and love of Hashem. Every night hewould arise at midnight and sit at the opening of the house and say the TikkunChatzot (midnight Lament prayer) while crying about the exile of the Shechinafor the duration of about half an hour. Afterwards he would learn a number ofhours of Mishnayot and Zohar and while it was still dark outside he would runtowards the pure Mikvah and there he would prepare his soul for the sake ofprayer. When he would leave the Mikvah he was accustomed to wake up a number ofmen to daven Shacharis in the Shul known as Cohanim which was situated in thecentre of the neighbourhood.

Other than hiscare for the Shechinah which dealt with his relationship with Hashem, he wasequally concerned about the needs of others, hence his care in being absolutelyhonest in all business dealings.

In honour of RavYehudah Leon,let us consider a few points to strengthen in our Business Dealings. We willinclude 3 or 4 in this post. Stay tuned for a further post where we willinclude other examples of honest in business.

Be honest in howyou charge for your services or products.

- The Torahteaches to be scrupulous in our weights and measures this means both whether wemeasure the weight of products for sale e.g. 1 kg of vegetables must be 1 kgand not more or less.

- We have to beequally honest in measuring time for services. Regarding being honest in timefor services, this falls on both the service provider and the client. While theservice provider needs to be honest to charge the going rate per hour for thatservice and to use an accurate clock to time the hour, so too the client mustbe honest to pay for the full time spent. Hence if a service provider charges agiven fee per the hour, the client must be honest too, to either stop a sessionat the end of the hour or to pay the additional time of the service provider inthe event the client elects to go over time, or simply goes over time withouthaving agreed to do so.

- If the serviceprovider has other clients waiting for a session or other tasks scheduled for thatday, the client taking additional time would be stealing time from otherclients

who are waiting.Hence it is more honest to end a session on time and re-schedule a furthersession for another time.

- In the event aservice provider travels to the client for the purposes of providing a servicein their home or place of work, the service provider is permitted to charge a travellingfee. This is usually worked out by mileage and time taken to get to thedestination. While the service provider needs to be honest in measuring themileage and time taken, the client need also to be honest in compensating theservice provider correctly.

Posts for thisweek:

Israel - Kineret and more

Background to Infant Massage

New Meaning to Yomim Tovim - an amazing story.

One man's creativity brings joy to his dog!

Aleviating Back Pain 2

The names forthis week are to be found on our website

Reminder this isan Exclusive international Tehillim group combining Torah, Tefillah and MaasimTovim.

As a bit of fun for today: Now here is thechallenge, donate $11 or a multiple thereof to our Bayit Chadash Gemach http://www.lovingkindness.co/wedding-project.htmlat exactly 11am 11 min today 11/11/11 and stand to win a surprise prize.

Shabbat Shalom

Shoshanah Shear

Director of the international Tehillim groupof Chessed VeEmet

Brief Background to Infant Massage

2011-11-10T13:39:00.001+02:00

Infant massage is an age old gift that mothers have provided for their babies and children.

In the late 1970's Vimala McClure, inspired by a trip to India, began devising a structured program to teach mothers the art of massaging their own babies. The International Association of Infant Massage Instructors was born in 1981 and officially became a non-profit organization in 1986.

IAIM Mission Statement
“The purpose of the International Association of Infant Massage is to promote nurturing touch and communication through, training, education and research so that parents, caregivers and children are loved, valued and respected throughout the world community.”

Shoshanah Shear is an Occupational Therapist with over 20 years experience. She has been involved in working with and massaging babies, children and adults since 1984. In June 2009, Shoshanah became a Certified Infant Massage Instructor through the Israeli division of the International Association of Infant Massage and teaches parents, predominantly in Jerusalem and Israel the wonderful skill and benefits of massaging their baby.

To book a session or the course of infant massage for parents, please email Shoshanah and / or visit her website

A New Meaning to Yomim Tovim!

2011-11-09T16:41:00.001+02:00

The above photograph is not of the set of twins mentioned in the article below

Many times when I give a treatment, the sessions ends, we say goodbye, I try to keep in touch and that is where things end. There are many times I dont hear what transpired after a session. Then there are times when a client will send a note of appreciation, including letting me know how they are doing. These are always very much appreciated and it is always wonderful to hear good news especially.

Today, I opened my email to find the most wonderful email awaiting me. A lady had come for a treatment having been married for several years without children. She had one treatment, enjoyed it so much she made a donation to our Bayit Chadash - Wedding Project to assist poor orphans to set up their new home and her name was added to our Tehillim list.

I notified her when exapnding our Tehillim group to a special sub-group for married Jewish women needing the Brachah of Children. After a little time transpired, she gaciously declined the offer but stated how much she loved the idea.

Today I discovered the reason she did not participate in the special sub-group for the Brachah of Children, she was already expecting. For this special lady, the Yomim Tovim were truely good days and in the plural in the form of the arrival of her set of twins.

The end of her email she has kindly given permission to share with other Jewish women needing the Brachah of Children:

"Thank you for always staying in touch with me and for the incredible session you did for me. It really mentally changed my perception on the issues that I was facing on a subconscious level and once I came to terms with what I felt I was able to fall pregnant. The treatment was an unbelievable experience that I recommend for others to try." (By New Happy Mom)

For those Jewish women needing the Brachah of Children, please do join our Tehillim group, become part of our support group and schedule an appointment. May you too be blessed this year with Zera Shel Kayema.

To book a session simply email Shoshanah or visit my website

Hachnasat Kallah - Help a New Jewish Home

2011-11-02T17:16:00.001+02:00

These are a few example items we give to new couples. Every Package is unique and different. In the items above the only cleaning product is dishwashing liquid.

For those of you who are happily married, Bezrat Hashem Ad MeaVeEsrim, do you remember setting up your new home? Do you remember purchasing cleaning products, cleaning cloths, brushes, dustpan etc?

I remember a few days after I got married, my mother took me to a supermarket to purchase a range of cleaning products that I did not yet have for my new little home. It might have been a simple shopping trip, but nothing is superficial or mundane.

Some of the Chatanim and Kallot we assist do not have parents to take them shopping, or if there is a living father, perhaps the mother is already in the world of truth and the new Kallah has no-one to take her to purchase these all important items that every home requires in order to be clean and acceptable as a Bayit Ne'Eman. Yes some fathers can and do go shopping, but some leave giving advice on appropriate cleaning items to the woman of the home. When that woman or mother is missing, who will provide this advice or these items?

Today when we were doing some errands, I noticed a few specials on at a local supermarket for cleaning products.

The new year has just begun and already we have 6 new homes to assist. We do have some lovely items, but we do not yet have any cleaning products to give to needy Chatanim and Kallot. We budget at present 250 Shekkels per package for the cleaning products section. If more comes in, there are probably more crucial items we can provide to the new couples.

Please help us to continue this improtant work by making a donation either monetary or of any NEW item suitable to build a new Jewish home in Eretz Yisrael.

If you are a supplier of any Green Products, Eco Friendly and are willing and able to donate a few samples or products to include in our gift packages, pleasebe in touch either via our website or email us to chessedveemet@gmail.com

If you have a useful tip related to running your own home to share with a Kallah who does not have parents or family to offer this advice, please email it to us to pass on to the Kallot.

Thank you for your kindness

Shoshanah Shear

One Story - Two Blessings

2011-10-30T11:37:00.000+02:00

Something special about living in Eretz Yisrael is most of the time when you meet a fellow Jew, it is not too long before a connection is found. Just a few days ago, I began talking to a woman when out and about doing errands. When we exchanged names, she asked, are you Shoshanah Shear of the Bayit Chadash project?

"Yes," I responded, "my husband and I started a special Hachnasat Kallah Gmach aimed at helping to set up the new home of needy couples especially poor orphans at the time of marriage. How did you hear about us?" I asked.

"A relative of mine mentioned you as she really wanted to make contact and give you a few things. You see, this relative of mine received help from you almost a year ago. The help you and your husband provided was invaluable. She really had not known where to begin to build her new home. From the moment she got engaged, how to put together a respectable wedding was enough of a concern without family who could assist. But the new home - well that was an added task that she had no idea what to do about.

All she could think of doing was to clear a shelf in her wardrobe for new items needed for her new home. She knew that after the wedding, she and her new Chatan had to go somewhere and that new place had to be a home with at least the basics. Where would they come from, what would she do? She had only just completed Seminary and was not yet qualified for any work.

Then someone came across your website and suggested she call for an interview. She did and had a meeting with both you and your husband. She was rather nervous to begin with, a little embarrassed to ask for help. But she explains how you made her feel right at home with refreshments and caring words.

Little did she expect that the interview would also include words of advice of how to find suitable employment. It was not long before she found herself standing infront of a table filled with all manner of gifts suitable for any new home and all she had to do was choose which ones she liked or needed, write a list of what she was taking and then help to pack them for transporting to her home. Suddenly the task of setting up a new home was no longer daunting or impossible but fun and exciting.

My relative is still in her Shanah Rishona but already her home has been blessed. Thanks to your kindness, caring and all your assistance, she was able to settle her new home and even to find suitable employment. Now she found herself sorting which gifts were duplicates and not needed as she is making space in her home for a bundle of joy. You see just a week ago she gave birth to her first healthy baby, a little boy to bring blessing to their home. While she was setting these items aside she mentioned she wanted to give them to the Bayit Chadash - Wedding Project that the Shears manage but could not remember how to contact you. What an Kindness from Hashem to put us together now."

I was about to wish her Mazal Tov when she raised her hand to indicate not to talk. "One moment," she said, smiling with a twinkle in her eye. "My relative had other news for you too. Having received such kindness from you she had referred a friend of hers who was in a similar situation. Your Bayit Chadash Gmach helped her too and she too has been blessed. So I guess your labours have borne fruits with a baby boy and baby girl born just one week apart.

The Bayit Chadash - Wedding Project is one of several Mitzvah Projects of Chessed VeEmet managed by Rabbi Eliyahu and Shoshanah Shear. It has Haskamot from Rabbi Fishel Jacobs of Kfar Chabad, Rabbi Rosenblat and Rav Avrohom Stern both of Beitar Illit all of whom provide rabbinical advice and guidance.

The new year has just begun and already we have 6 new homes to assist. Please help us to continue this improtant work by making a donation either monetary or of any NEW item suitable to build a new Jewish home in Eretz Yisrael.

Partners For Life

2011-10-24T18:48:00.002+02:00

"See Life with the Woman (or Man) whom you Love" (Kohelet 9:9)

It is interesting to compare the two sides of Shidduchim. When one is single, the days, weeks, months and years that one waits for a Shidduch drag on. It is easy to think that the Shadchanim are just taking your information and not doing anything with it.

We were going through those on our Shidduch Database - a necessary part of Shidduchim. Being now on the other side, a different picture develops. Here we have many many single Yidden, all quality people. We have them organized in age groups, location and Hashkafa.

It is so exciting to find, Ploni ben Ploni is age x, lives in place y and wants p, q and r. Then we look at the lovely ladies. All quality singe Jewish women. We have a match for certain place, and certain criteria might work, but what about age? Can't we persuade Ploni ben Ploni to bend a little on the age? Yes? No? Why? She is really a lovely girl.

OK, your mind is made up, we honour your preference. Back to the list. These ladies are all in the wrong age group for him. The ones in the right age group are the wrong Hashkafa or live in the wrong place or...

Hmm... next one... who do we have here?

Matchmaker, Matchmaker make me a match!

Yes, we hear you; we want to. We really want to help you. We are still keen to find matches for ALL those on our database. We need more single Jews to join our database in order to make more appropriate matches. This is why we currently have a special for a free option to join. This offer might not last long so please tell ALL your single Jewish friends to join.

Don't worry about your career. Don't worry about studies. Don't worry about traveling to see the world. You can do all those things and more once you are married to the right marriage partner. Life is far more meaningful together with your spouse than trying to see the world alone.

So don't delay, sign up today.

You can sign up with ease by visiting our website.

Words of Prayer, Words of Kindness - Tehillim Reminder 50

2011-09-16T10:16:00.000+02:00

This weeks Wordsof Prayer, Words of Kindness is prepared in the merit of the

Secular / EnglishBirthday of Yehudah Leib ben Devorahand

the Hebrew Wedding Aniversary of Eliyahu benDevorah Gitta and Shoshanah bas Rachel Chanah

May it be a year of revealed blessing.

This Shabbat isChai Elul, the Yartzheit of the Maharal of Prague and the Birthday of the BaalShem Tov and the Alter Rebbe, Rav Shneur Zalman of Liadi. It is no co-incidencethat the Baal Shem Tov and the Alter Rebbe are born on the Maharal of Prague'sYartzheit, let us share a little about this connection to understand thewonders of the timing of Birthdays, Yartzheits etc.

In a town in Germany called Worms, lived a Rabbi with his wife and 4children, 3 sons and a daughter. Rabbi Chaim was able to send two of his sonsto Yeshivah in Poland and not knowing which of them would have the greatestpotential in Torah he sent his sons Yaakov and Helman, his younger son,Betzalel remained behind to involve himself in the special Mitzvah of caringfor and assisting his parents.

On a visit homefrom Yeshivah, the family gathered together, all except for the daughter whohad married and just given birth to her first son. Rabbi Chaim began to discussa certain Tosafos with Yaakov and Helman, his wife and son, Betzalel lookingon. Now Betzalel had a sharp mind, sharper than his brothers and began to enterthe Torah discussion. He held his own but lacked the abilities that come fromlearning how to learn. In his frustration, Betzalel asked his father why he wasnot sent to Yeshiva as he so much loved Torah and had a sharp mind. He knew hehad to concentrate now on getting married and would not be able to dedicatehimself to Torah and now stood to lose out on being the Torah Giant he couldhave been.

Rav Chaim respondedthat he could only send two sons to Yeshiva and Betzalel had fulfilled thegreat Mitzvah of assisting his parents, sacrificing his opportunity to learn inYeshiva. Rav Chaim who was a Holy man and whose blessings were answered put hisHoly hands on his son's head and blessed him to have 4 lights come from him,sons who would provide the Torah he was not able to learn.

After the passing of his parents, Betzalelmarried and in deed fathered 4 sons. Each one was great in Torah. The secondson, named after his great grandfather Yehudah Loew, is better known as theMaharal of Prague, who later became Chief Rabbi of Prague (1525- 17 September 1609 / Chai Elul in Hebrew Calendar)

Rabbi Yehudah Loew was a giant in all areas ofTorah. He was particular about Shmiras HaLashon, had a special way of learningMishnayos and influencial in the manner of education of our children. RabbiYehudah Loew was a prolific writer and many of his works have been published.

Rabbi Yehudah Loew's Torah and approach had avery great impact. Amongst his direct students was Eliyahu Loanz of Worms (1564 – 1636) theleader of the Hidden Tzaddikim and forerunner to Chassidus.

Rabbi Yehudah Loew's Torah had an impact on thethinking and Torah of The Gaon of Vilna and on great Chassidic giants includingRabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi, the Alter Rebbe, a direct descendent of theMaharal of Prague who in turn was a direct descendent of David HaMelech, bothconnected to David HaMelech through their father's side.

Before we mention an example of the Torah of theAlter Rebbe, here is something special from one of the grandsons of the Maharalof Prague. Rabbi Yehudah Loew had a special connection with his grandson Shmueland made him a promise that Shmuel would one day be buried next to hisgrandfather, the Maharal. When Shmuel became ill and was nearing the end of hislife, he called the Chevra Kadisha and notified them of the promise the Maharalhad made to him. The Chevra Kadisha apologized that this was no longer possibleas since the burial of the Maharal of Prague, there had been other burials andthere was no longer enough space next to him for Rav Shmuel.

Upon hearing this, Rav Shmuel ordered the ChevraKadisha to go and begin digging his grave and to request of his grandfather,the Maharal to move over to make space for Rav Shmuel to be buried next to him ashe had promised.

The Chevra Kadisha did so and after starting todig the grave for Rav Shmuel, made the request of the Maharal to please move upto make space for his grandson. After making this request, there was a shudderingand the gravestone of the Maharal of Prague moved, leaving just enough spacefor Rav Shmuel to be buried next to him.

To give a glimpse as to the power of the Torah ofthe Maharal of Prague, let us take a look at this weeks Parsha. In this weeksTorah reading, we customarily read the Tochachah, or curses, ie if we theJewish people don’t do x then y will result.

One year, when the Mitler Rebbe, was 12 yearsold, his father, the Alter Rebbe was not in the city and unable to read theTorah in Shul as he usually did. When the Baal Korei came to the section of theTochachah and began reading, the Mitler Rebbe (not yet Rebbe) fainted. Whenthey were finally able to revive him, the Mitler Rebbe became very ill, so muchso that they were nervous as to whether he would manage to fast on Yom Kippur,some weeks ahead.

The Alter Rebbe asked his son, "son, is thisthe first time you have heard this section of the Torah being read? Why did youreact so this time?" To which the Mitler Rebbe answered that when Tatti,(ie the Alter Rebbe) reads this section of Torah, all one hears is Brachos. Butnow when the alter Rebbe was unable to read and another read the same Torahportion, now, for the first time the Mitler Rebbe heard the curses and theinformation was so shocking to his sensitive ears that he fell in a faint.

The teaching of the Alter Rebbe is that when westudy Torah, we must know that everything in the Torah is beautiful and when wecome to something that seems bad or appears like a curse, it means we havemis-understood and we need to learn the Torah correctly.

As the Torah teaches, if one is meritorious, theTorah becomes an Elixir of Life, if one is not meritorious, then the Torahbecomes the opposite.

The names for this week are found on ourTehillim page

Shabbat Shalom and Ketiva VeChatima Tova, ShanahTova UMetukah

Shoshanah Shear
Director of the international Tehillim group of Chessed VeEmet

Remember the Orphans for Yom Tov

2011-09-13T17:59:00.001+02:00

Yom Tov Card Handmade by Shoshanah each one is unique and individually made

We are rapidly approaching Chai Elul, just over two weeks to Rosh HaShanah. While Yidden around the world prepare for the High Holy days, recite extra Tehillim, prepare gifts or cards to send to friends and loved ones, prepare their menu for the meals, go out to shop for special new garments; there are Yidden in Israel for whom the Chagim is a difficult time. Our heart goes out especially to widows and orphans for whom this time of year is a painful reminder of what they lack. The difficulty in scraping together enough for the meals. The hard decision as to which sibling might merit a new garment this Chag if any of them can.

Elul is a time to increase in Chessed and Tzeddakah along with our additional Tefillah, Torah learning and soul searching.

Do you know there are even households where the children are predominantly being cared for by the eldest sibling who may even not yet be of marriagable age yet?

We appeal to you to assist in putting a yummy meal on the table of families who are no longer complete families. Please help too that they can have a new garment for the Chagim, something special to remind them that the King really is in the field and remembers the widows and the orphans.

If you can assist with a monetary donation, please email us or donate here

Donations have been placed in Shekels although you are welcome to donate from any country, any amount will be gratefully received.

Thank you for your kindness.

If you know of any Jewish orphans in Israel getting married who have no-one to help them to set up their new home, please put them in touch with us.

Words of Prayer, Words of Kindness - Tehillim Reminder 49

2011-09-09T06:49:00.000+02:00

This weeks Words of Prayer, Words of Kindness is prepared bothfor

a complete and speedyrecovery for Rachel Chanah bas Estherand

as a thank you to the international Tehillim group.

It hasbeen a quiet few weeks with little feedback or interaction from the Tehillimgroup. On my side it has been a busy time and I found myself wondering whetherto prepare a full Words of Prayer, Words of Kindness this week or to say,sorry, this week has been too busy.

Justwhen I was about to opt for a short few lines, I happened to look at my emailand was gratified to read that a mother who placed her daughter on our list 3weeks ago, prior to serious surgery felt that the outcome of Tehillim wasbetter than they anticipated. Thank you for your Tehillim ladies. Keep up yourefforts and do stay in touch.

To the person who sent that messagein, it makes a big difference in my life to know that something I am involvedin had a positive difference in the life of a fellow Jew. Thank you.

As thank you to all of you here area few Torah thoughts.

Shmiras HaLashon Thought

Intoday's Torah reading we find the verse "Remember what Hashem your G-d,did to Miriam on the way, when you were leaving Egypt". (Devarim 24:9) Thisverse reminds us that when on our journey in the Midbar (desert), there was anoccasion that Miriam criticized her brother Moshe Rabeinu to her brother AharonHaCohen. The result was immediate punishment from Hashem in the form ofTzara'as over her whole body, indicating the extent to which Hashem dislikesevil speech.

I wasthinking of this verse today, and would like to share another thought; athought that a few ladies of the group have requested to be shared. Typicallywhen we discuss the verse above, we think about and remember the content ofwhat Miriam had said and the result. However, the verse includes another factthat this occurred while on a journey. In today's times we have a majorchallenge, that of cell phones.

It isnot so long ago, that telephones were only an instrument in ones own home thatcould only be used from one specific place. Many homes would have a quietcorner where the telephone stood on a table with a chair next to it, enablingthe person talking to have a little bit of privacy.

With allthe benefits of cell phones and mobile phones, most of us forget a crucialwarning in the above verse, that of when we were leaving Egypt. We were on ajourney. Actually, Miriam did talk to her brother Aharon in private, howeverthe verse itself, provides insight into a habit that is beneficial to work onaltering.

The wayof the Jew is to be modest, private and to talk softly. We are not supposed tobe having conversations in public, in transit whether walking down the road, onthe bus, around ones garden, in the supermarket at the tops of our voices oreven on two phones and two conversations simultaneously. Let us remember thewords of the Torah itself and remember what happened to Miriam when she spokeincorrectly when we were on a journey. Let us master guarding our tongues interms of content and further, guarding our tongues and manner of speaking evenin terms of place, that our conversations take place quietly, in private, in amodest manner.

TheVilna Gaon gives a sobering thought "The main object of man's life is, tobreak undesirable traits (middos) – and if not? Why is he alive?"

Thenames for this week are found on our Tehillim page

ShabbatShalom to everyone. Shanah Tova UMetuka, may you all be inscribed for a year ofeverything good, a good that is revealed, manifest and visible

Shoshanah

Help to Build a Bayit Chadash this Elul

2011-09-04T15:09:00.001+02:00

Chessed Ve'Emet is helping an Elul couple. The Kallah is an orphan and is struggling to complete her home. This special couple are in need of some assistance to set up their Bayit Chadash. Our Target for them is 2500 Israeli Shekkels to be reached by Chai Elul. However, surprise us, we would love to give them more than this.

Some items they need include:

Items to enhance their Shabbos e.g. an urn or hot pot or flask, a hot plate
Judaica such as a Kiddush Cup and Havdalla Set
A basic tool set (every home should have one)
A book case for their Seforim.
Some Kitchen utensils
A Yom Tov / Shabbos Tallit for the Chatan

For those wanting to donate items, we accept any NEW items needed to set up a new home. If you have something not listed, please be in touch. It might be the couple does need it or it can go to the next couple we assist.

If you can assist with a monetary donation, please email us or donate here

Donations have been placed in Shekels although you are welcome to donate from any country, any amount will be gratefully received.

Thank you for your kindness.

If you know of any Jewish orphans in Israel getting married who have no-one to help them to set up their new home, please put them in touch with us.

Words of Prayer, Words of Kindness - Tehillim Reminder 48

2011-09-01T20:16:00.000+02:00

This weeks Words of Prayer, Words of Kindness is prepared

in the merit of

Zelig Pinchasben Itta Leahfor a complete and speedy Refuah (healing),

Refuat HaNefesh,Refuat HaGuf

(Healing of bodyand soul).

ShmirasHaLashon Thought

When wewere children we learned a rhyme: "Sticks and stones will break my bonesbut words will never harm me". The Torah teaches a different lesson. Wordsare very powerful. When used in the positive they have the power to heal, tobring blessing, to comfort, to teach, to inspire and more. When used in thenegative they do the very opposite. For this reason we have laws of guardingour tongues which includes not hurting another with ones words eitheremotionally, spiritually or damaging their reputation, their name or their veryParnassa.

TheTorah teaches further that we are to be very careful with our actions that wedo not place a stumbling block before another or do anything that could inanyway cause harm, damage or pain to another Jew and in deed to any part ofHashem's Creation.

Althoughwe are supposed to learn from everything, we should also be selective as towhat we teach our children and how powerful and often completely incorrect anddistorted the rhymes, songs, poems etc are that we expose our children to.

BitachonThought

The Gomorrahof Berachos 33b teaches us that everything is in the Hand of Heaven, except forFear of Heaven. That means how much money we earn, who we come into contactwith, whether our plans succeed or not, whether we have health or not, familyor not, friends etc. EVERYTHING is in the Hand of Heaven.

Knowingthis, can help to give us comfort and the strength to stop worrying, after all,if everything is being taken care of by Hashem, it is a waste of energy to worryabout it. This knowledge can also help us to grasp where to focus our attentionand work / effort. Since the one thing that is in our control is Yirat Shamayimor Fear of Heaven, this seems to be where we might focus on strengthening andasking Hashem to grant us strong Yirat Shamayim (Fear of Heaven)

TehillimThought

Inkeeping with this, Tehillim 3:7 reads "I do not fear the tens of thousandsof people that have set themselves against me round about." Even thoughthe majority was following Absalom who was going against David HeMelech, stillDavid HaMelech did not fear them. He was aware that as much as they tried toharm the physical they could not harm his soul. (Meam Loez)

If welink this with the Bitachon Thought above, David HaMelech through his Tehillimteaches us very clearly the above teaching that everything is in the Hands ofHeaven, therefore he did not fear the people, but rather only Hashem.

------------------------------

Updateson our blog:

- A New Support Group is forming for JewishMarried Women still needing the Brachah of Children

- What would YOURDream Headline Be?

Ifanyone misses or misplaces a "Words of Prayer, Words of Kindness"Tehillim reminder email, they are mostly uploaded onto my blog http://leivesther.blogspot.com

There isa search option, to find previous posts. If you still don’t manage, then getback to me.

TheTehillim list for this week is updated and found on our website.

ShabbatShalom to everyone

Shoshanah

New Support Group for Jewish Women Needing the Brachah of Children

2011-09-01T16:44:00.000+02:00

Shalom

We have an exciting development happening in our international Tehillim group. We do still need more Jewish women to join our main Tehillim group, so if you have a few minutes to recite Tehillim during daylight hours on Shabbos, please contact us to join the group.

Our new exciting sub-group is specifically for Jewish married women who do not yet have the brachah of Children.

Join us for a special support group. Gain Chizuk, Tefillah, Brachos, Unity and more and together may we all receive the brachah of healthy chldren to add to Hashem's army.

This support group will be facilitated by Shoshanah Shear, experienced Occupational Therapist, Healing Facilitator, Certified Infant Massasge Instructor and Certified Kallah Teacher.

If you are a Jewish woman who is married to a Jew from a Hallachically accepted Chuppah and not yet blessed with children, or you know of Jewish women who fit this category, please email Shoshanah or visit my website

Please note, women joining this group must either be already fulfilling the Laws of Family Purity or interested in doing so.

Please note the Tehillm part of this group happens in the comfort of your own home, wherever you are. The support group will be meeting in person for those in Yerushalayim and surrounding area. For those wanting to meet virtually, please be in touch so that we can plan for this too.

Looking forward to hearing from you

Shoshanah Shear

What Would Your Dream Headline Be?

2011-08-30T19:19:00.000+02:00

In Honour of Rosh Chodesh Elul, we decided to begin considering what headlines we would really like to see in the newspapers.

Here are some as they begin to come in:

"Peace in Israel and the Middle East ...!!"

Then we expanded to:

"Peace in the world!"

"Peace in Israel extends or expands to the rest of the world"

"Moshiach NOW!"

"Moshiach is Here"

"Joy, Gratitude, Friendship, Peace, Unity and Truth at All Time Record Levels"

"Moshiach Arrives!"

"Am Yisrael Prays!"

"Am Yisrael dons their finest garments to greet

Melech HaMoshiach"

"Wanted: ALL Cohanim to report at their closest airport or harbour to be transported immediately to the Beis HaMikdash. Leviim to follow"

"Moshiach arrives to welcome ingathering of the exiles! Peace to reign supreme."

"Finally, peace among the nations!"

"All diseases have been eradicated!"

"Children learn with ease and enthusiasm!"

"Creation Welcomes the King to the Field"

What would you add to the list? What would your ideal newspaper headline be? Could you imagine any text to go with the headline? What images would you add to such headlines?

Please join us in creating a wonderful, blessed month of Elul. Remember the King is in the Field so join us in davening for the best for all.

Chodesh Tov UMevorach

Chatan and Kallah Classes - Free Gift until Rosh Chodesh

2011-08-25T11:48:00.000+02:00

Will you be marrying soon? If Torahvalues are important to you, you'll need to learn the laws of TaharatHaMishpacha – Family Purity. Even if you've been married for years – you'llalways need to refresh yourself too.

Until Rosh Chodesh Elul – we areoffering all those joining our comprehensive yet time-efficient Chatan andKallah classes – a FREE gift. The gift is from our Bayit Chadash – Wedding Project(devoted to helping orphans and those struggling financially to be able tostart their homes). It's something different for everybody – but somethingyou'll be able to use and enjoy in your new (or old) home.

We offer you practical advice,caring counsel, warm support, genuine guidance, and informative instruction.Lessons in person or over the Internet with webcam.

See Chatan Lessonsand Kallah Lessonsfor more info and...

Sign up today!

Rabbi Eliyahu and Shoshanah Shear

chessedveemet@gmail.com

New Gifts to the Bayit Chadash Wedding Project - You can WIN too!

2011-08-24T15:18:00.001+02:00

Some of our posts mention our special Bayit Chadash - Wedding Project. Many of these posts give a little insight into who we help or might share something of exciting progress in various ways. Our last few posts showed how this Mitzvah Project combined with our internaitonal Tehillim group has see positive results, both in terms of donations and answers to Tefillos.

This time we have a different development. One of the couples we assisted a few months ago had set aside a number of new items they did not need. They had either received too many of this item or had no use for it. What a wonderful surprise to receive a box of wonderful gifts to pass onto other new couples.

Toiletries to go in our package towards the new Mitzvah for the Kallah

Join Chessed Ve'Emet to learn the Laws of Family Purity. Perfect timing to receive such a book.

There are all kinds of ways to show a selection of special images from your wedding or your new home and family. This photograph holder is perfect for the right couple

A brand new 28 inch pan with lid.

Learning the Laws of Family Purity? You might find thisbook to be an excellent addition to your growing library of Torah books.

Some like to use a microwave, for the right couple, here is the opportunity to heat up or defrost something in their new microwave.

Of course, every home needs items for Shabbos. A porcelain Kiddush cup, glass holders for lighting candles.

These items have been added to our other collection of gifts waiting for the right couples.

For the week leading up to Rosh Chodesh Elul 2011, Chessed Ve' Emet is offering a surprise gift to Chatanim and or Kallot signing up for our course in Family Purity.

Lipsticks by Lori - a Donation to Chessed Ve'Emet

2011-08-17T13:29:00.000+02:00

A number of weeks ago, one of the women in our international Tehillim group mentioned she was selling natural make up. I mentioned to her about our Bayit Chadash - Wedding Project. The project is all about helping orphans and needy Kallot with a gift bundle towards their new home. I asked her whether she could donate a lipstick or two.

When she agreed and asked for our mailing address, I honestly thought we would receive an envelope with one or two lipsticks of a neutral colour.

What a surprise when instead of an envelope we received a package, delivered by a friend of hers in person. What a treat to open the box and discover bundles of six lipsticks of all different colours.

There were bundles of lipliners of all different colours. What a treat and a delight! This gift package will certainly assist in making many Kallot very happy indeed!

The lipsticks and lipliners are all from "Naturally Elegant LIPFACTS". They are made from natural ingredients and not tested on animals. So the new Kallot will receive an added bonus, especially those for whom nature and environment is important.

A very big "Thank you" to Lori of FaceFacts. Please do visit her website for the various natural make up products manufactured by FaceFacts.

If any of our readers would like to follow the example of FaceFacts and also donate products to our Bayit Chadash - Wedding Project, please do email Chessed Ve'Emet, and in return you too can receive free advertising on our blog, and the additional merit of helping to bring Simchah to orphans and needy Kallot at the time of their wedding.

Words of Prayer, Words of Kindness - Tehillim Reminder 47

2011-08-12T12:37:00.001+02:00

Since Tu B'Av is coming up on Sunday night – Monday, this weeks

Words of Prayer, Words of Kindness is in themerit of

all single Jews of marriageable age to marry their Bashert (soulmate)

Shmiras HaLashon Thought

Thereare many forms of Forbidden Speech:

Rechilus, which is gossip or tale bearing about another.

LashonHara, which is spreading truthful information thatis derogatory.

OnasDevarim which is hurting someone with your words

Chanifutwhich is false flattery, when you go up to someoneand say "you are such a great man" but you don’t really mean it, issaid to flatter the other for ones own gain.

MotseiShem Ra which is spreading malicious lies aboutanother and is probably the worst of all of these as it literally kills theperson's name and can as a result damage his possibility for work, parnassa,shidduchim and more

All ofthese forms of speech are strongly forbidden by the Torah.

Ahavas Yisrael Thought

Every so often someone asks us forinformation as to why we should marry a Jew and how to help another Jew tounderstand this. A while ago, I came across this letter which I hope will touchthe hearts of all of you.

The letter is written to someonecalled Sean by his father. I don’t know the author, if any of you do, pleaselet me know. It might be written to a male, but is equally relevant to allJewish women. We all need to hear these words, take them to heart and help ourfellow Jew to marry a Jew.

"DearSean

I knowthis might sound strange coming from a father who's far from a religious Jew,but now that you're dating, there's something I need you to understand. Thesingle most important decision you'll ever make in life will not be about your educationor career. It will be whom you marry. Because who your wife will be willdetermine, more than anything else in your adult life, the person you become,the family you'll raise, what you'll leave on earth when it will be time to go.I know the end of life isn't something you probably give much thought to. Notmany of us do, at least not until we became sick or old enough to see ithovering on the horizon. But a final day does arrive, sooner or later, for eachof us. And when it comes, very few of the things we thought made such a bigdifference will seem to matter at all. And other things we didn't bother togive much thought to will suddenly loom very large. We'll want to look back atour lives and feel that, in those areas, we pretty much did the right thing.

Sean,the right thing for a Jewish person is to marry another Jew. Not only becauseour religion requires it, which it does. But when Jews "marry out", theydisrespect who they are, they are disloyal to the Jewish past, and they chipaway at the Jewish future. Whether or not our family kept strictly Kosher orobserved Shabbat or attended services often enough is all one thing. But thethought of bringing about the end of a proud Jewish line stretching back intime for centuries is another. It's more than a religious transgression. It's abetrayal.

Younever asked to be a Jew, it's true. You were born one. But that identity is nota burden. It is a gift. It means you are part of something bigger, much biggerthan yourself. Each of us Jews is the culmination of the hopes of hundreds ofJewish ancestors. Don't forget, you're not just Sean, you're Shmuel. And evenif you only use your Jewish name when you get called to the Torah, it is stillwho you really are, an inheritance from your mother's all those Jews who camebefore us, lived their lives – and sometimes willingly gave them up – to preservetheir Jewish identity and heritage.

Yes Iknow, love is a powerful emotion. That's exactly why I'm writing this to you asyou BEGIN to date. The young women you become close to will form the pool fromwhich you will choose a life-mate. Don't give yourself the opportunity to fallin love with someone you cannot, as a Jew in good conscience, marry. And neverforget that what the world calls "love" is not all there is to asuccessful and happy life. Every marriage that ended in divorce or worse, afterall, was born in a rush of love. For a marriage to truly work, there must benot only attraction and mutual care but shared ideals and goals. And apart of aJewish man or woman's goals should be an embrace of their Jewish identity, andthe instilling of that identity into their children. I don’t care whether thegirl you marry is white, black, yellow or if she speaks English, Hebrew,Yiddish or Swahili. I don’t care if she was born a Jew or became one, legally,properly, and out of sincere conviction. But if she isn't Jewish, I know therewill be tears, in your mother's eyes and mine – and also in Heaven.

They saythese days that most Jewish parents in America (it applies elsewhere too) don’tcare if their children marry other Jews or not. I hope it's not true, but evenif it is, remember what I always told you: Being a Jew means being ready tobuck the tide, to say no to others – even to many others – when somethingimportant is at stake. Sean, you're my legacy to the future. May you alwayshave the courage and the strength to do the right thing.

Love,

Dad"

For those who wanted some Chizukfrom our Tehillim group, I have put another post - "Our Tehillim group - Unity and Healing in Action" up regarding a positiveoutcome.

The names for this week can befound on our Tehillim page.

If you know any Jewish singles, please do put them in touch with us. In addition to our Tehillim group we do have an active Shidduch service.

Shabbat Shalom to everyone

Shoshanah

Our Tehillim Group - Unity and Healing in Action!

2011-08-11T18:42:00.002+02:00

Our Tehillim group is an unusual one. Usually women come together to a Shul hall or someone's home and together, in the same venue, will complete the Sefer Tehillim, dividing up the Perakim (chapters) of Tehillim according to the number of women who arrive at the given date and time.

We tried to do the same, but as you will see from previous posts in this blog, we quickly discovered that women were not coming in person, so we offered it on various Yahoo groups and very soon had an international Tehillim group. Our international Tehillim group has been going now for about 2 years. Nearly a year ago we added to our weekly email reminder Torah thoughts which we hope the women enjoy.

Some of the women are silent group members, but others slowly open up and interact, certainly with the manager / director of the Tehillim group.

One of these women began to share certain difficulties she was having and her desire for children. She got involved in the international Tehillim group and also read my website.

Below is a note sent by this member of our Tehillim group about a year after joining our group with the happy news that she was a happy mom.

"I had the unbelievable pleasure to have Shoshanah help me during my struggle to fall pregnant. Myhusband and I have always wanted a big family and two years after my first child I was diagnosed witha condition that affected my ability to conceive. We were left shattered. Shoshanah, through herincredible healing abilities got me physically, spiritually and emotionally through the journey of fallingpregnant. Being separated by the sea, Shoshanah did healing for me from afar aswell as created an incredible meditation CD for me which dramatically improved my well being. Herhealing, through Judaism, is the reason I became a proud mother again to a beautiful boy. Her constantpositivity, knowledge of Judaism and mitzvoth to take on to merit becoming a mother, encouragementand incredible healing abilities is astounding. Anyone who has the privilege of working with her will beable to conquer any difficulty and come out on top and better. A true angel on earth. (S.K.)"

We are always happy to have more women join our international Tehillim group and are working on a very special sub-group specifically for women needing the brachah of children.

Women are also welcome to email Shoshanah to book a session or a few to assist in opening up to the brachah of children.

Already have children? Join Shoshanah for a course in Infant Massage and learn the art and incredible gift of massaging your own baby.

Still single? We have a Shidduch service and if you are a Kallah, Mazal Tov, do join us to learn the laws of Family Purity.

In addition to managing this Tehillim group, Shoshanah is an experienced occupational therapist and healing facilitator, Certified Infant Massage Instructor (CIMI) and Certified Kallah teacher, all aimed at helping you to Be A Happy Mom.

We look forward to hearing more good news from our Tehillim group members and in deed for all Am Yisrael.

Certified Chatan and Kallah Teachers Appear in Chabad.Info

2011-08-11T09:50:00.001+02:00

An article about our becoming Certified Chatan and Kallah teachers has appeared in Chabad.Info

The article follows an interview of Rabbi Fishel Jacobs who has been involved in many of our Mitzvah Projects and gave us the Certification to be Chatan and Kallah Teachers.

For more informaiton of the article, please click on the link

If you know of Chatanim or Kallot needing to learn the Laws of Family Purity, please be in touch. You can find out more information on our website or email us directly.

A Medical Miracle

2011-08-07T15:20:00.005+02:00

The story below was submitted by a member of our Tehillim Group.

Let me start with our visit to Eretz Yisrael, we left California for Israel on the 15th of May 2011. We flew to Los Angeles and onto Tel Aviv, Israel. We spent one month in Israel and had a most wonderful visit. The highlight of our trip was having the privelege of visiting a lovely couple that we met through mutual friends that lived in Kiryat Arba. They took us on a tour of Hevron, we actually were able to go and see Marat Ha'Machpela. I couldn't believe that I was actually there. It was so beautiful. I fell in love with Hevron, and have to say that if I do make aliyah G-d willing Kiryat Arba-Hevron is where I would love to live.

The photograph above is copyright and photographed by

Shear Success Photographers

It is part of a set of 4 Fridge Magnets.

So when our month was up we were due to fly home, all too soon. The trip home was a little bit harder on me than the trip over. When I arrived home for several days I was extremely tired and short of breath. I was a little worried but chalked it up to jetlag. After a couple of weeks I was still not feeling well. One evening we were planning on going to get some groceries for our dinner. As I got ready I was hit with a heavy pain in the center of my chest radiating out to my left arm and through my left back area. This scared me as I have suffered angina of the heart in the past. I told my husband to take me to hospital immediately. Once there, they took me in and did lots of tests. One was a chest X-ray (which I have had before). Finally the doctor came in and they gave me some medicine in my I.V. to relax my heart and slow the heartbeat. I started to feel better right away. Still they wanted me to spend the night in the hospital and have more tests in the morning. The next day after the tests were done the doctor told me that my heart tests looked fine and I could go home, except there was this one thing, on my chest X-ray they had found a small nodule on one of my lungs. I was told to follow up with my personal doctor. Well my doctor was out of town and I didn't know when he would be back. So I waited and worried about the nodule I was told about.

In the meantime, I have quite a few Jewish friends on Face Book, so I asked people for prayer for a refuah shleima. Also I had recently became a part of Shoshanah's Tehillim group. Shoshanah put me on her prayer list, for a refuah . Also, Shoshanah wrote about a young Chatan who lived in Israel and he was a recent orphan due to the passing of his mother. He needed help with funds for his wedding which was quickly approaching. So I was very moved by this young man's story and I wanted to help. So I wrote to Shoshanah and she told me how I could donate. I went onto the PayPal and sent $130.00.* Now I usually can't make donations this large as we are just a middle class family with 2 grown children, and our 22 yr.old youngest daughter at home with us while she attends local college. But I just had an urgent feeling about sending this particular amount.

Later that week I was in touch with my doctor and when I asked him about the nodule on my lung and what I needed to do about it, he asked me what was I talking about? I told him that it was written on my discharge papers from the hospital that I had a nodule on my left lung and I should make arrangements and have further tests done with my family doctor.

Well . . . my doctor told me that he saw nothing in the report that he had in front of him about any nodule on my lung. He even emailed the X-ray report to me and it stated from the Radiologist . . . "lungs look clear and unremarkable". I thought how could this be, I was told by the E.R. doctor that they found this spot (nodule) on my left lung. And on the discharge report it stated what the doctor had told me about it too. So how could I now have nothing on this original report from the Radiologist?

Well, I was amazed when I talked to Shoshanah about what had happened and she told me, it is not uncommon for prayers and giving tzadakah to have this exact effect. The effect being that Hashem took away the problem, and even retroactively erased it even from the medical reports! When I realized what had happened I told Shoshanah I am amazed, and feel so greatful that Hashem has performed this great miracle for me! I am just so greatful for what happened and will never forget that Hashem is the one who is The Great Healer! Amein!

NOTE: This story has been posted without any editorial changes.

* A little addition by Shoshanah: My husband and I also spend time davening at the Kevarim of the Tzaddikim and the name of this person was taken with us to daven at a number of Kivrei Tzaddikim. The timing of this story certainly demonstrated Hashgachah Pratit. We had a certain target to reach with a deadline as the wedding was quickly approaching. The last amount submitted was from the person who has shared her story above, thus enabling us to reach the desired target. The mitzvah of assisting a poor orphan to get married is in deed a great one. We are taught further that charity can save, even from death and that Tefillah and Tzeddakah help to avert a decree.

If any Jewish women would like to participate in our International Tehillim group or to participate in any of our Mitzvah Projects, please either email Shoshanah or click the links on the highlighted words or visit www.lovingkindness.co directly

Words of Prayer, Words of Kindness 45

2011-08-05T07:21:00.003+02:00

This weeks Words of Prayer, Words ofKindness is prepared

L'Ilui Nishmas (For an elevationof the soul) of

Nathan Gershon ben Nathana"h, my late father whose Yahrzeit will beon 7^th Av.

There isa wonderful story told of Rabbi Levi Yitzhak of Berditchev. Rabbi Levi Yitzhakwas known as an advocate for the Jewish people, always finding reasons tohighlight to Hashem how precious His children are and why He should have mercyon us. In this particular story, the day prior to Pesach, Rabbi Levi Yitzhaksent his attendant out in search of a pint of beer.

Theattendant knocked on the doors of the freshly cleaned homes and stated hisrequest. Try as he might, he struggled with this task. Each time he made hisrequest the reply was: "What? Beer!! Beer is Chametz! Tonight is Pesachand I have already cleaned my home. G-d forbid we should posses a drop ofChametz at this hour!" The attendant returned back to Rabbi Levi Yitzhakempty handed.

But, RabbiLevi Yitzhak seemed rather pleased. He sent the attendant out once again, thistime to fetch a bit of tobacco from any of the Jews in the village. Governmentofficials had recently forbidden possession of tobacco and threatened toimprison anyone found with it. To enforce their edict, they would make surprisesearches among the villagers.

Nevertheless,the attendant had little difficulty obtaining this forbidden item. He handedRabbi Levi Yitzhak the package, but instead of smoking tobacco, Rabbi Levi Yitzhakwaved the package towards heaven. Lifting his eyes and with a beaming look ofpride on his face, he exclaimed, "G-d, see how precious Your commandmentsare to Your children! The government posts soldiers to enforce its rules andregulations, yet see how easily I was able to procure this tobacco. Almost fourthousand years ago, You commanded the Jewish people to rid their homes ofChametz. Today, not a drop could be found! Your people keep Your commandmentssincerely without any pressure or force!"

An interestingstory is brought in the book "The Secret of Jewish Femininity" byTehilla Abramov. The story is about a paediatrician who had been raised in asecular home and later began to observe a Torah lifestyle. One day he sharedwith a close friend that he was religious for two years prior to believing inG-d.

Hisfriend was amazed and asked how it could be possible to keep Torah laws withoutbelieving in G-d.

Thepaediatrician gives an interesting reply: "I looked at families with Torahhomes, and I saw their lifestyle. I was impressed with the women and felt theywere more in touch with themselves than my contemporaries. Marriage wasn't aburden to them, but an expression of who they were. I became convinced that theexcellent communication between husbands and wives and parents and children wasa result of their Jewish practice. I wanted a home where these values could berealized. I wasn't going to allow my belief or lack of it to stand in theway."

May weremember what it is to be a Jew and strengthen our commitment to followHashem's path and laws. May our commitment to Torah be as in the first storythat we will ensure if Hashem decreed something to be permitted or forbidden wefollow because Hashem said so and hence it is precious to us. And when thingsbecome difficult in our lives and challenges hit, may we remember the secondstory and not permit our belief or lack of it to stand in the way of continuingto strive for the right path and to imbue our homes in Torah, mitzvos, love,respect, Shalom Bayis, humility, patience and all the good qualities that gointo making a Jewish home so special and a light to all.

Thenames for this week are to be found on the Tehillim page of our website.

ShabbatShalom to everyone. To those scheduled to fast on Tisha B'Av, may we meritMoshiach before that so we will enjoy a celebration rather than another fast.If you do need to fast, may it be an easy and meaningful fast.

Shoshanah

Words of Prayer, Words of Kindness 44

2011-07-29T08:58:00.002+02:00

This weeks Words of Prayer, Words of Kindness is prepared in themerit

of a Refuah Shelayma (complete healing) for

Rachel Chanah bas Esther.

As weapproach Rosh Chodesh Menachem Av, Israel mourns. We mourn the loss ofthe Beis HaMikdash, and as a painful reminder, we have lost two giants in thepast few days.

2 daysago, the Spinka Rebbe was Niftar after a long and painful illness at the age of80 years. The Spinka Rebbe was a quiet and humble Rebbe who lived in MeaShearim in Yerushalayim.

Lastnight, in Beer Sheva, Israel, Rabbi Elazar ben Meir Shalom zt"l Abuchatzeira,who was 70 years old, was stabbed when receiving someone he knew in a privateaudience. The Levaya of Rabbi Elazar ben Meir Shalom zt"l is due to takeplace at 11 am this morning ending with Rabbi Elazar ben Meir Shalom zt"l beinglaid to rest next to his father on Har HaZeisim.

I don’t knowenough about the Spinka Rebbe, but Rabbi Elazar ben Meir Shalom zt"l wasone of the grandson's of the Baba Sali and son to Baba Meir. This marks thesecond brutal murder of Jew to Jew in just two weeks. What can our onlyresponse be to acts that can only be explained as Sinas Chinam (baselesshatred)? Ahavas Chinam (baseless love).

Let usturn to some teachings from the life of the Baba Sali for ideas as to whatAhavas Chinam looks like. The Baba Sali is the grandson of the Abir Yaakov, avery great Tzaddik and Mekubal. Actually the entire illustrious family were /are very pious with an unusual strength in their Avodas Hashem. The Abir Yaakovis the (great-great etc.) grandson of Rav Shmuel (Elbaz) Abuchatzira who beganthe family name due to an amazing miracle that earned him the name of"Master of the Mat" which is the translation of the Aramaic name"Abu Chatzira".

The BabaSali, like other of his relatives would take on many fasts, extra Torahlearning, acts of kindness and more to help to sweeten decrees for his fellowJew. Even in his own sorrow he noticed the needs of his fellow Jew and wouldstrengthen himself to appeal to Hashem even to take his own life rather thanafflict his fellow Jew.

Thisgreat family began in Yerushalayim and migrated to Morocco. The Baba Sali came toEretz Yisrael a number of times and lived the last 20+ years in Eretz Yisrael.So it was that one Motsei Tisha B'Av, a close confidant came to break the longfast at the end of a hot day in Israelat the house of the Baba Sali. As the friend entered the home, he discovered thefamily in mourning having just recently received the news of the passing of thewife of Baba Meir. Everyone was involved in the mourning of Rabbanit Simcha.One lone figure was found in the kitchen, cooking up a delicious meal for theguest to break his fast. Even after the Baba Sali was "caught" in thekitchen, he refused to stop or to permit anyone else to assist or to take overthe task. To the Baba Sali, it was a rare treat to have the kitchen to himselfand the ability to personally serve his guest.

Even inthe midst of his sorrow at the loss of his daughter-in-law, the wife of hisbeloved son Baba Meir, the Baba Sali still noticed the needs of his guest andmade sure that he would be taken care of, even if it meant he would cook themeal himself.

One hasto realise that the Baba Sali had been head of the Jewish Community in Morocco. He wasinvited to be the Chief Rabbi of Israel but turned down this offer.He was very involved in studying Torah, assisting his fellow Jew, receivingguests and Jews for Brachos, Eitza, Sheilas and more. Usually he had staff andfamily to take care of the running of his home.

However,in his humility, he was ready to jump to the mitzvah of serving a guest nomatter that he himself had been fasting all day.

May webe inspired by the lives and service of the Tzaddikim of our generation and maythe loss of these Rabbis atone for our sins and hasten the Redemption.

Both theSpinka Rebbe and the Baba Sali had a close relationship with the LubavitcherRebbe.

Thenames for this week are to be found on our Tehillim page

ShabbatShalom and Chodesh Tov

Shoshanah

Words of Prayer, Words of Kindness - 42

2011-07-22T11:24:00.002+02:00

This Weeks Words of Prayer, Words ofKindness is prepared in the merit of a

Refuat HaNefesh and Refuat HaGuf (A healing for the body andsoul) for both
Eliyahuben Devorah Gitta
and Tikvah bas Rachel Chanah

The following poem was written by Rav Dovid Ostroff of Yerushalayim,and is published with his permission.

I have inserted translations for the Hebrew in brackets for those who need it.

"When Aharon Hacohen’s two sons died, it says וידום אהרון,(Veyadom Aharon – Aharon was silent) Aharon was silent, because silenceis sometimes the wisest thing to do, and yet, when saying something is requiredor requested, words might explain silence.

What good could therebe? does it make sense?

we are all so afraid,confused and tense,

but he was soinnocent, little and pure,

and Hashem,where was He, He knew, for sure.

And everything else,sits well in your mind?

are you in charge,are you the mastermind?

don’t we all agree,that we are puny and small,

accepting without question,from the Kindest of all?

But please show me now,just a glimpse of You

so that I maycontinue to pray and love you too,

and always believewith a loving heart,

that everything youdo is planned from the start.

No, we don’tunderstand, not much at all,

where comprehensionends, Emunah (faith)stands tall,

It is Emunahthat says - Hashem has a plan,

and we, His children,do not understand.

But let us see, whathappened to us,

when the alert wassent out, wow, what a fuss,

who cares, did wesay? He is not mine or yours

he’ll be found it’sok, let’s continue with chores.

That’s not whathappened, as we all know,

we all said Tehillim,the day didn’t flow.

A little boy ismissing, he couldn’t be found,

so we all stoppedplaying, stopped messing around.

We became one family,our hearts are now one,

look, little Leiby,look what you’ve done,

So many people nowfeel so near

so many people shedmany a tear.

Kabolos, to bebetter, dear little one,

are your z’chusto present to the Holy One

how Am Yisraelis special, like no other,

oh how much we care,and cry, for each other.

We must improve, wemust be better,

it’s a message fromabove, a G-d sent letter -

Leiby was pure, asacrifice for the tzibbur, (community)

so we should try andimprove our dibbur. (speech)

Talk nice aboutothers, show that you care,

why wait for tzorus,(difficulty, hardship, distress)

we have enough tospare.

Be happy for others, sendקנאהaway,

Learn shmirashalashon, (Guarding your tongue)
two halachos (laws) a day.

Be מכבד (honour) your friends, place them beforeyou,

See Leiby, see, what youmake us do,

שלום לך לייבי, (Shalomlecha Leiby – Shalom or goodbye or

peaceto you Leiby) pray for us too,

because we’re tryingand trying to be as holy as you."

ShmirasHaLashon Thought

The Chofetz Chaim brings us asobering thought. On Yom Kippur we beseech Hashem to "silence the Accuserand let the Defender take its place". The Chofetz Chaim reminds us thatthe Accuser was created by our forbidden speech, how then can we request thatthis Accuser be silenced?

Conversely, those who put ineffort to guard their tongues, their request to Hashem to "silence theAccuser" carries great weight as they themselves managed to overcome theirnegative instinct to speak negatively of others and in so doing would increasein Defenders rather than Accusers.

Ahavas Yisrael Thought

My husband posted a powerfulteaching of the Holy Ari as taught by his pupil Rav Chaim Vital. On his blog

A Dwelling Place Below, you can enjoy this thought but powerful thought byclicking on the link.

I mentioned previously about therecent Orphans we are helping. One of our Tehillim Group members requested thatI share the story of one of these. It is a touching story and the Kallah certainly is more than worthy of our assistance.

May Hashem cause love, peace andbrotherhood to dwell amongst His people, Am Yisrael.

The names for this week are to befound on our Tehillim Page

Shabbat Shalom

Shoshanah

Recommendation from Rabbi Fishel Jacobs

2011-07-20T12:58:00.000+02:00

We just received this referral from Rabbi Fishel Jacobs via FaceBook, regarding our Chatanim and Kallah Lessons on the Laws of Family Purity.

"Fishel Jacobs
Notice

Rabbi & Mrs. Eliyahu Shear both recently received certification from the Family Purity series organization.

This couple is extremely well-rounded in many areas, including halacha.

Chosonim: http://www.lovingkindness.co/chatan-lessons.html

Kallahs: http://www.lovingkindness.co/kallah-lessons.html

I am warmly referring new chosons/kallahs to them.

Please pass this on."

The Reward of a Mitzvah

2011-07-18T16:05:00.004+02:00

Many times it is asked, what is the purpose of doing a Mitzvah. Why must I trouble myself to say a blessing or keep Shabbos, Kashrus, the Laws of Family Purity. Or one might ask, if I already know that Kashrut means not eating meat and milk, why should I learn further about it. Why is it important to have a library of Torah related books and to set aside time each day to learn.

It is easy when one is a Kallah or Chatan to think a one hour shiur that outlines the most important points of preparing for the Mikvah is enough. Why learn further, what else can there possibly be to know.

The Torah teaches the reward of a Mitzvah is another Mitzvah but we do not always see how this plays out in reality. All too often we get caught up in the busy-ness of life and forget to stop a moment to take stock.

In truth, if we take a moment to reflect upon how our lives are unfolding, there are times that it is easy to see that one mitzvah does infact lead to another and another and G-d willing to many more.

Here is an example from our life. We have already introduced to readers of this blog our Mikvah Project and the follow on Mitzvah Project - the Bayit Chadash.

In truth these Mitzvah Projects began in the first few weeks of our marriage. As a new Chatan and Kallah, we found ourselves as guests at the home of a Rabbi who happened to have on his bookshelf a nice looking book on the laws of Family Purity. During the stay, we had the opportunity to browse through the book a little and were very impressed by how clearly it is written.

Yes we could have left the experience at that, having enjoyed browsing through a well written book, but instead we chose to write an email of thanks to the author. Within 24 hours we had a reply written in a very caring tone and of course with Mazal Tov for our being newly married.

The book of course is Family Purity - A Guide to Marital Fulfillment by Rabbi Fishel Jacobs.

When we were able to, we purchased our own copy and remained in touch with Rabbi Jacobs. We did not expect how things would unfold.

If one takes a look at our website, you will find that this initial email has in deed lead to other Mitzvos.

When we considered starting our Mikvah Project, we turned to Rabbi Jacobs for guidance and he was excited about the idea and kindly provided us with a letter of Approbation. When this project expanded to become our Bayit Chadash - Wedding Project, Rabbi Jacobs once again provided a letter of Approbation supporting this worthy cause.

It is always special to identify Torah being played out in ones life and so we see a clear teaching from Pirkei Avos, in Chapter 4 Mishna 5, Rabbi Yishmael ben Rabbi Yosay said: "He who studies Torah in order to teach is given the opportunity to study and to teach; and he who studies in order to practice, is given the opportunity to studyand to teach, to observe and to practice."

We initially contacted Rabbi Jacobs both to thank him for his beautifully written book and to improve our practice of these very important laws. Now we have taken our learning with Rabbi Jacobs further still and become qualified as Chatan Teacher and Kallah Teacher.

If you are newly Chatan and and or Kallah preparing for Chuppah or have recently married or even have been married for a while and require a refresher, please do contact Rabbi Eliyahu and Shoshanah Shear. We would be happy to teach you the laws of Family Purity.

Hachanasat Kallah - A Mitzvah to Assist an Orphan

2011-07-18T14:51:00.001+02:00

Recently we posted about a Chuppah taking place and in need of our assistance. As we mentioned, it is a very big Mitzvah to assist an orphan to come to Chuppah and in deed to set up their Bayit Chadash.

Thus far we have had just two donations come in. In continuation of the previous post, perhaps a little insight will assist our fellow Jew to donate generously.

For the past 8 years, a certain family has had much difficulty in their day to day needs. The mother was niftar just a month after her triplets were born, leaving behind 9 orphans. The father, now a widower has done his best to keep his family together and functioning, assisted by his eldest daughter who took on the role of mother to her siblings.

Now, not yet 18 years old and still young in appearance, this eldest orphan and "mother" of her siblings finds herself needing to make decisions one usually needs a real mother to assist with.

There is no mother to ask advice about the dress for the Kallah, or suitable dresses and outfits for the other 8 siblings. There is no mother to help with selecting a hall, deciding on suitable invitations, table settings, flowers or no flowers, how to set up the Kallah's chair or whether the chair provided from the hall is sufficient.

For 8 years, this young lady has assisted with many tasks usually a mother will take care of. Now as she begins to build her own home, she feels the loss.

Please have compassion on this family and help to bring Simchah to the new home of this young Kallah, not yet 18 years old, who has had to grow up too quickly. She has already learned how to run a household, but as skilled as she has become by necessity, she still requires real items in order to run her own home. Each item that enables a Jewish home to be a Bayit Ne'eman, costs real money.

-- The greatest charity

is to bring a poor orphaned Kallah to the wedding canopy! (Shach)

We appeal to you to join our Bayit Chadash - Wedding Project to help to bring Simchah to the Chuppah of this new couple. We only have a few days as the Chuppah will be, G-d willing prior to the 3 weeks.

Donations have been placed in Shekels although you are welcome to donate from any country, any amount will be gratefully received.
Thank you for your kindness.

Searching for Leiby - My Personal Story

2011-07-15T14:30:00.000+02:00

Guest post written by Dvora Gelfond

I needed to type out my experience in searching for Leiby. I just typed my thoughts. I'm not a writer, so forgive all the mistakes. I want to share with you, from a personal viewpoint what happened last night July 12, 2011 in Brooklyn, New York.

As I was standing in front of Leiby's apartment building, someone asked me, "Where do you live?" I answered, "Passaic, NJ." she said, in shock "You came here all the way from Passaic to help look for the little boy? I answered, "Yes." "Wow" was her answer. "What a zechus, that's amazing that you came to help." I said to her, "When you have a child almost the same age as this boy, it's not such a difficult decision to make."

On Tuesday, July 12, 2011, I sat glued to all the social media outlets my computer could handle. I kept thinking, I must go and help. Then I started reading messages like...Volunteers needed. Please come and help. Over and over again. As if Hashem (G-d) was screaming at me to do something.

I made the decision at around 4:30. I called my husband immediately. I said to him, "Please come home as soon as possible. I need to go to Brooklyn to help find Yehuda ben Itta Esther." Without a pause, and in a very humble, I know she means it tone, he said, "OK, but I can't leave until 5:00."

He came home and I was out the door at about 6:30.

I arrived a little after 7:00 PM. I went to the command center that I was told to go to when I called. There, I was standing with hundreds of other volunteers. It was a heartwarming and heart wrenching scene all at the same time. I was overwhelmed with the outpouring love that the Jewish community was displaying. A Kiddish Hashem (Sanctification of G-d's Name) like I had never seen before.

I walked around for a good hour looking for 3 women to join a search party with. They were not letting people go without a group of four. I met this wonderful Israeli woman who has lived in the states for quite some time. She told me that she is a good friend of Leiby's mother. She said they go to the same synagogue. My heart skipped a beat when she told me she went to be with Leiby's mother earlier in the day. She had no words to describe the pain Itta Esther was going through. She tried to speak to me about it, but nothing came out of her mouth. She would just shake her head in disbelief.

I asked her "Where does Leiby live?" She said to me, "Right there" and she pointed to the apartment building directly across the street. My heart sunk fast and furious. I just stood there, staring at the building. I couldn't stop thinking about what his mother was going through, right in that building in front of my eyes. I didn't want to think about it, but my mind kept forcing me to go there. This made me want to help even more. I went over by the building, and I saw the women who lived there outside in the front, with their babies. The look on everyone's face was indescribable.

There was one point while my new friend and I were standing by the Shomrim command center and they made an announcement. "WE NEED VOLUNTEERS TO GO TO SUNSET PARK." I looked at her and asked where that was. She said in her beautiful Israeli accent, "They will not let the women go there, it is not a nice area."

I was getting very anxious to go out and start searching. By 9:00 PM, we were finally on our way. They told us to go from 15th street and 57th avenue all the way to 86th street. We got our waters, and were on our way. I couldn't believe I was actually doing this. It was quite surreal. I wasn't exactly sure what to do, but my maternal instincts apparently did.

For 29 blocks, there was not one garbage pail, garbage bag, dumpster, parking lot, car, backyard, ally, tree, bush or garden that was left unturned. It was dark, we had no flashlights and I had no idea where I was. B"H the angel, my partner in all this, did.

There was absolutely no stopping this wonderful woman that walked with me. As we walked up the blocks, she would shout out "LEIBY!!!!" My heart would drop each time. After she would call out to him, she would say to me, in a whisper, "You never know, maybe he will hear us." Now I know, I'm sure he did.

As we were walking, we would show people on the sidewalks the flyers we had and say..."Have you seen this little boy?" I could not believe those words were coming out of my mouth. Was I in a movie? "There is a $100,000 reward if you find him. Please call 911 if you see him or have any tips."

The people we approached were so helpful, caring, and warm. You could see they were also in pain with us. As we were walking across a street, a man in his car said to us..."Is that a picture of the missing boy?" We ran to his car, and said "YES!" He said to us "I'm a cab driver, give me a copy of the picture so I can show it to my passengers. I can put the flyer up in my shop tomorrow morning."

There were a few men standing outside a bar. We approached them and asked them if they saw Leiby. They said no, but they put a flyer up of him in the bar to help us.

A woman approached us and asked us for a flyer so she can help with the search in the morning.

Someone sitting on his steps out front asked if he could take a picture from the flyer on his phone so he had it with him and he could send it to his friends.

There were 3 women and about 6 kids sitting outside their house. The mothers were very upset about this and the kids kept asking us questions about little Leiby. The response was amazing!

It took us approximately 2 hours to walk the 29 blocks. My friends husband picked us up and brought us back to the command center. I had a friend who lived in the area I contacted earlier who asked me to come visit her. I thought I would go see her and then go home. It was almost midnight, and there was not an aching muscle in my body. I don't think that Lucille Roberts should get the credit for that though. It was my adrenalin going into overtime.

My friend came over to me and said, "D'vora, they still need us. Do you want to continue?" I thought about it for a second and I said, "Of course." Then I was greeted with a huge bubby type hug and a "Your so good D'vora!" I knew I was doing the right thing.

She told me they needed people to check basements. I said.."OK, lets go." A woman was standing there and said to me, "Why are you going into basements? It's scary, aren't you scared?" I said to her, "Not as scared as Leiby is right now." I couldn't even think about how scared I would be doing this. I could only think about what he could possibly be going through at that moment. Little did I know, he was already in Shamiyim (heaven) with The Rebono Shel Olam. (The Creator of the Universe).

We were assigned to go to Flatbush. We found two other amazing Israeli women (25 years old and looking for shiduchim ;) to join us. On our way to my car, I received a Facebook message. My friend wrote that he possibly got into a gold colored sedan. BTW, thank you for that, you know who! In Flatbush we had to cover avenues K, L, M, and N. from 17th-19th street. Then after that, we had to do Avenues S, T and U from 20th until 22nd street. We get to Flatbush and park.

As we were walking, one of the women with me said, "Is that a gold car?" I said, "Yes it is." On every single block we walked in Flatbush, every time we saw a gold car, we didn't take any chances. With a lump in my throat, and holding my breath, I put my ear to the trunk, and knocked. THAT was scary. But I did it to EVERY car that fit the description. While one of the other women looked inside the car with her flashlight. Except when she told me right before I knocked on the trunk, "D'vora, be careful, that's a Jaguar." I skipped that one.

There was a track and a football field. A woman was jogging on the track and came over to us because she heard us calling out Leiby's name. She said, "Are you looking for someone?" We said, we are looking for a 9 year old boy. Her face sunk. She said, "There was a boy who ran through here not so long ago!" We quickly moved to get closer to her. My friend showed her the picture and she said in a very sorrowful voice, "Oh. No, that's not him, he was a Spanish boy. I'm so sorry. Good Luck." We all walked away with our heads down.

Shortly after that happened, I received an e-mail that I shared with the women. "Giving to others will increase your love for them. If you make an effort to help everyone you meet, you will feel close to everyone. Doing acts of kindness for everyone fills your world with friends and loved ones. "A stranger is someone you have not yet helped." I think that gave us a lot of chizuk (strength).

A few times, we found blankets in the back seats or in the trunks. We scanned those cars thoroughly with our flashlights. The scariest one was when we found a thick black plastic bag in the trunk of a gold mini van. We called the authorities about that one. They said let it go. So we did.

As I am typing this I realize that while we were there, at one point there were police cars, and most likely under cover cars speeding down the streets. Helicopters in the area as well. It was a concern because that didn't happen for a few hours. But it was Brooklyn, so it could of been anything. We all looked at each other and said, "What's going on?" Now I know. :(

3:00 AM rolled along and my feet weren't necessarily agreeing with my heart. I am ashamed to say, that I told the women, "I can't do Ocean Parkway. I'm too tired." They immediately said, no problem, please stay over my house and sleep here tonight. My friend who wanted to see me earlier also wanted me to stay over, but I just couldn't. I needed to get home to my husband and my children.

By 3:30 we got back into the car. I drove two of the women home. On my way to drop off the woman who I was with all night long, she asked me if I wanted to go to the area where Leiby was last seen. So I said yes. We get there a few minutes later. I park and we got out of the car. It was now 3:45 in the morning. I couldn't believe my eyes. I was standing there. In the same spot where he was just a day before. The spot where the monster went over to him to begin his journey to GEHENIM (hell).

There were a lot of things going on all at once. The corner ice cream shop was open and packed with people. We were standing next to private investigators looking at a house and saying, "There is a camera there." I couldn't believe I was standing there. I was speechless.

At the command center they gave us a bunch of flyers for the next days search. I thought I would bring some to Passaic and put them up in the local Jewish shops, because, well, you never know.

4:00 AM, we decided to head home. I started my drive back to Passaic. I cried a lot. Listened to talk radio to see if I could hear any news. I got home at around 4:30. Gave a small update to my Facebook friends. I finally fell asleep at around 5:30.

At 7:00 one of my kids came in my room and woke me up. Half asleep, I reach over for my phone and see the light blinking. I've got mail. I press the button to turn on the screen. Subject line, "Tragedy."

I can't tell you exactly what made me do this. I didn't really think about it. I just did it. I put in all the effort that Hashem gave me. Now, we just need to figure out a way to cope with the horrific events that are unfolding in front of our eyes. We can't forget, ever. Please do not read this and walk away. Let's all try to do an act of kindness in Leiby's name.

As I type this, Yehuda ben Itta Esther is being laid to rest.

Tonight, in the midst of tears, frustration, and questions, my dear husband said to me, "He is, for sure in Shamiyim" I ask him, "But he doesn't feel pain when he sees what his mother is going through? What we are going through? He said, "No" I said "How?" He said, "Because he is able to see the truth."

When we hear of tragic things that happen in this world, we always think, those things happen to other people. I didn't know this child, or his family. But, I felt, and I knew, this did happen to me. It happened to all of us.

To the Kletzky family, May the Almighty comfort you among all the mourners of Tzion and Yerushalayim.

We should hear of no more sorrow.

A very tired, worn out but feel good because I wrote this, mom. Good night.

Words of Prayer, Words of Kindness

2011-07-14T13:00:00.004+02:00

This weeks Words of Prayer, Words of Kindness is prepared
Le'Iluy Nishmat Yehuda Leib ben Nachman A"H
and for strength andhealing for his family and loved ones.

Thankyou to those of you who recited Tehillim while the 36 hour search was takingplace for Yehuda Leb ben Nachman a'h the 8 year old who went missing inBoroPark. The end of this tragedy is one that has left us all heart-sore. Appreciationis due to the thousands who put their lives on hold to help search for YehudaLeib. In addition, one can hardly begin to understand the task of the ChevraKadisha involved here as every piece of body and every drop of blood would havehad to be collected and prepared for the mitzvah of receiving a Kosher Burial.

YoungYehuda Leib was an only son, leaving behind parents, sisters and other family.He was described by teachers as being a "holy and pure soul".

Ata time like this, the words of Rav Simchah Wasserman (1900–1992) quoting his father Rav Elchanan Wasserman (1874 –July 6, 1941) whose Yartzheit was this week can perhaps give us a little comfort.

RavSimchah Wasserman shares that his father taught that the miracles that willoccur at the coming of Moshiach will be greater than those that occurred at thetime Am Yisrael left Mitzrayim (Egypt).In everything that happens, there are two aspects: there is a part that we seeand a part that is hidden, that we don’t see. Rav Wasserman teaches that at thetime of the coming of Moshiach, the revealed part will be greater than both therevealed and hidden of what transpired at the time we left Mitzrayim.

Itis like saying that whatever we experienced is like a bad dream. When a personis dreaming, anything is possible. When he wakes up – when he "comes tohis senses" – he realizes that is was only a dream and not reality.

Whenwe wake up and Moshiach comes, we will realize that it was all a bad dream. Butit is very, very hard to understand. All the people who have been tortured, allthe people who have been lost – how can we say it was a bad dream? How can wesay such a thing? But it seems that all our worries will be over, like a manwaking up and saying "ay, it was just a dream."

Buteven knowing that intellectually, there is still something inside that criesout and says, "How can you say that it was simply a bad dream?" Allthose people who suffered? For them it was not a dream. It was REAL!"

RavWasserman continues that "many times I would assist a child to cross thestreet. The child does not know how to cross the street, but he knows that ifhe is holding on to an adult, everything is okay. We should know that we are inthe same position. We can only hold on to the Torah, and the Torah will lead.Alone, we are lost and without answers." (from the book Reb Simcha Speaks byYaakov Branfman and Akiva Tatz)

Asnews of the tragedy with Yehudah Leib ben Nachman a"h unfolded, a 14 yearold was missing too. Thank G-d, he has been found and is safe and well.Unfortunately there have been more rockets in South of Israel and moretragedies in Mumbai. As painful as this tragedy is, we can not get lost in oursorrow as more is happening to us around the world.

TheTorah way when faced with such tragedies is to increase in Torah, mitzvos andbuilding either Yeshivot or something to strengthen Am Yisrael.

Ifyou would like to contribute to any of our Mitzvah Project, please either email us or visit our website

Thenames for this week are to be found on the Tehillim page of our website.

Forthose fasting on Tuesday the 17^th Tamuz, please drink plenty ofwater and fruit juices for 3 days prior to the fast. Refrain from caffeine asmuch as you can for 3 days prior to fasting. As we come towards the ThreeWeeks, may our efforts and our heart ache hasten the coming of Moshiach and maywe all be UNITED in Yerushalayim preferably before Shabbos and certainly beforethe fast.

ShabbatShalom

Shoshanah

Hachnasat Kallah - A very great Mitzvah!

2011-07-12T13:06:00.003+02:00

Preparing for ones wedding is a very special time. A busy time and a time to have quality time with parents as one prepares for both Chuppah and building ones own home - a Bayit Ne'eman B'Yisrael.

Mazal Tov, Mazal Tov. Another Jewish couple is coming to Chuppah in just a few days. !!

Like all Chatanim and Kallot, this is a special time. But, unlike most, it is also a sad time as both Chatan and Kallah are orphans.

-- The greatest charity

is to bring a poor orphaned Kallah to the wedding canopy! (Shach)

Donations have been placed in Shekels although you are welcome to donate from any country, any amount will be gratefully received.
Thank you for your kindness.

Words of Prayer, Words of Kindness - Tehillim Reminder

2011-07-08T10:06:00.006+02:00

This weeks Words of Prayer, Words ofKindness is prepared as a thank you to Hashem for answers to tefillosfor some on our Tehillim list.

Thereare so many incredible stories regarding the Lubavitcher Rebbe Menachem Mendelben Levi Yitzhak (April 5, 1902 OS (some documents state the Rebbewas born in 1895) – June 12, 1994 NS). His life from birth till hisPetira and beyond is filled with one story after another that makes one realisethere is far more to the life of a rebbe and the connection of Tzaddikim to AmYisrael.

Thisweek contained a day many refer to just as Gimmel Tamuz, the Yartzeit of RebbeMenachem Mendel ben Levi Yitzhak and so it is fitting to share a story.

RavZelilg Slonim was the director of Kollel Chabad for many years. At one stage hewould spend his winters in America.Before every Pesach he would visit the Rebbe for a blessing and would receiveMatzos to distribute to various rabbanim and individuals according to a listprovided by the Rebbe. Among the names on the list was usually the name of theTzaddik Rav Aryeh Levin.

Oneyear, the Rebbe gave the matzos to distribute as usual, but when Rav Slonimlooked at the list he noticed that Rav Aryeh Levin's name was missing from thelist. Rav Slonim was surprised and mentioned to the Rebbe that Rav AryehLevin's name was not on the list. The Rebbe, in his modesty obliged and addedthe matzos for Rav Aryeh Levine. When Rav Slonim returned to Yerushalayim justprior to Pesach, he was amazed to discover that Rav Aryeh (March 22, 1885 -March 28, 1969) had returned his soul to Hashem a few days earlier.

Then herealised the far seeing vision of the Rebbe and understood why Rav Aryeh Levinwas not on the list for matzos that year, he would no longer be requiring it.(From Rosh Bnei Yisrael by N.T. Gotleib)

TheRebbe was very firm about the importance of appropriate Chinuch (Jewisheducation) for our children. Here is a letter the Rebbe wrote to someoneregarding what language is most appropriate to teach our children. The Rebbeanswers:

"You ask which language to use in teachingthe children Talmud Torah.

In myopinion, the emphasis should be on educating the children to be G-d fearing, onloving to learn Hashem's Torah and performing His mitzvos. If a particularlanguage will affect the child's Yiras Shamayim (fear of Heaven), thatis wonderful. Of course, in the middle of the school year, it is not proper tochange the studies from one language to another.

If theparents desire a certain language, suggest to them that, based on a majorityvote that is the language that will be used in the classroom.

Theparents mention the great importance of learning in Yiddish. True, however theyfail to realize that the responsibility of teaching children to speak Yiddishis theirs and not the school's!

Mostimportantly, I was informed of the misconduct of the children on days whenthere is not school. They are acting without menschlikheit. It is mostrelevant for the parents to alter their "Yiddish" campaign and toplace the emphasis upon saying simple blessings, davening, respectingteachers, parents and grandparents and upon basic decent behaviour towardspeople. (Yagdil Torah (Israel) Volume 12p 16 )

Thenames for this week are to be found on LovingKindness.co

Wishingeveryone a very good and restful Shabbos.

Shoshanah

Help a Couple Start Their Life Together - Continued

2011-07-03T19:15:00.001+02:00

Thank you to those who contributed towards the Chatan whose mother returned her soul to her eternal rest just a few weeks prior to the Chuppah. Chessed Ve'Emet, with your assistance, did not bring in as much as we had hoped, but your kind donations will certainly make a difference to ease the physical needs of the Chatan and his new Kallah.

We are still working to assist another young couple to build their Bayit Ne'eman together. As we posted previously we have a target of NIS 11 000 or around US$3000 to assist this young couple. We have had a kind donation of a toaster and a set of bath towels. D-Day to assist this couple is Tu'Be'Av or 15th Av which is just a few weeks away.

Some of the items needed include:

A new suit for the Chatan
Two new outfits for the Kallah for Shabbos, Yomim Tovim etc
New shoes for each of them
New pots and other kitchenware
Two new bookshelves for the Chatan's Seforim
An Urn and Blech for Shabbos
Judaica including a Kiddush Cup
A ladder, toolbox and household tools
Plus a little gift to help them enjoy some time off, or even to get away for a few days or a week.

If you can assist with a monetary donation, please email us or donate here. Please donate generously, this couple has no family to assist them.

Donations have been placed in Shekels although you are welcome to donate from any country, any amount will be gratefully received.
Thank you for your kindness.

URGENT Appeal to help a Chatan, recently orphaned

2011-06-29T06:50:00.003+02:00

The month leading up to a wedding is usually a busy time with a thousand and one things to accomplish:

Finding a venue, booking a hall, finalising numbers of guests, arranging for invitations, music, photographer, shopping for new clothes - the list continues.

For one specific family in Eretz Yisrael, a mother of 8 found herself fitting these exciting but busy tasks to prepare for the wedding of her first born son, in between painful treatments. She tried hard to keep up her strength but could wait no longer. The invitations were ready to be picked up, but her Petira came soon after, now the invitations were missing the letters עלה השלום - ע"ה next to the mothers name.

The son, the new Chatan asks "Weren't you able to wait a little longer Ima? Perhaps till the week after my wedding? What will my wedding be without my Ima?"

Sadly, we can not bring back the mother of these 8 children. We can not replace the person who took care of all their needs as any mother does. Their wound will last until Moshiach comes. But we can reach into our pockets and help this young Chatan to come to Chuppah and to build his Bayit Ne'eman. His Chuppah is booked for 30 June 2011. That is just a few days away.

Still within Shloshim, his wedding will be a little different. Please have mercy on these orphans and make a generous donation to help to ease their physical needs.

Donations have been placed in Shekels although you are welcome to donate from any country, any amount will be gratefully received.
Thank you for your kindness.

Help a Couple Start Their Life Together

2011-06-24T12:33:00.002+02:00

Chessed Ve'Emet is helping another needy Chatan and Kallah. This couple has nothing with which to begin their new home. D-Day is Tu'BAv, please help us help them with certain basics that they need to bring blessing to their new home and to their future life together.

Some of the items needed include:

A new suit for the Chatan
Two new outfits for the Kallah for Shabbos, Yomim Tovim etc
New shoes for each of them
New pots, new toaster and other kitchenware
Two new bookshelves for the Chatan's Seforim
An Urn and Blech for Shabbos
Judaica including a Kiddush Cup
A ladder, toolbox and household tools
Plus a little gift to help them enjoy some time off, or even to get away for a few days or a week.

We are raising NIS 11 000 or approximately US$ 3200

If you can assist with a monetary donation, please email us or donate here. Please donate generously, this couple has no family to assist them.

Donations have been placed in Shekels although you are welcome to donate from any country, any amount will be gratefully received.
Thank you for your kindness.

Words of Prayer, Words of Kindness - 41

2011-06-24T08:24:00.000+02:00

This weeks Words of Prayer, Words of Kindness is prepared in the merit of

Esther bas Nachum Dov Ber a"h for an Aliyah of her soul.

Her Yahrzeit was on 19^th Sivan, the same day as Abarbanel.

Ahavas Yisrael Thought

Esther bas Nachum Dov Ber a"h loved Chessed and doing acts of loving kindness, I therefore decided to share a story that illustrates love and consideration for our fellow Jew. The greatest example of a partnership is that of Husband and Wife. The story is told of Rav Aryeh Levin z"tl the Tzaddik from the book "A Tzaddik in Our Time". Rav Aryeh Levin (March 22, 1885 - March 28, 1969) spent most of his life in Yerushalayim. He is buried in the cemetery in Sanhedria.

The story is told that on one particular day, the wife of Rav Aryeh had a sore foot and needed to go to the doctor. Rav Aryeh who was usually occupied in Torah, Mitzvos and Acts of Loving Kindness, accompanied his wife to the doctor. When their turn came he rushed into the doctor's office first and stated, "Doctor, our foot is hurting us."

Rav Aryeh was so sensitive to the needs, pain, feelings, experiences of his wife that to him, it was not a case of his wife's foot hurt her or concerning him but rather that it was the foot belonging to both of them, that hurt both of them and his desire was to have the doctor treat his wife as quickly as possible so as to ease the pain to both of them.

What a beautiful lesson and a wonderful goal to work towards not just in our relationship with our spouse but with our sensitivity to the needs of every Jew.

Shmiras HaLashon Thought

A continuation of last weeks Shmiras HaLashon Thought where we learned that coming before the Holy Ark in the Beis HaMikdash was like coming before the Holy Throne, here we learn from King David. King David taught us that if one wishes to enjoy the joy and bliss of the world to come, and, in addition, good days in this world, our first step is to Guard our Tongues.

Tehillim Thought

On the verse: 3:6 "I have lain down, and I slept, and I awoke; for the Lord sustains me." We look here at just one of the commentaries on this verse.

In Meam Loez we read that even though King David was being pursued by his own son, never-the-less, when time came to go to sleep he lay himself down. He did not waste time worrying about whether those pursuing him would find him in the night or bring him harm but he realised that Hashem is in charge and he went to sleep. Again with trust in Hashem as to the days events, he awoke and like any G-d fearing Jew, began his day with Modei Ani (Grateful am I that Hashem restored my soul to me).

It is very easy to avoid going to sleep at night or even stopping our work and going to bed, erroneously thinking that things will only proceed if we continue to put in our effort. Comes this verse to teach us, follow the ways of King David. Stop your work. Give your body and mind the opportunity to rest and be replenished. Let Hashem take care of what needs taking care of. And when you wake in the morning, don’t wake with complaints or delay getting up. Rather, as we are taught in Shulchan Aruch, get up like a lion, eager to greet the day and trusting that Hashem who restored your life to you, will Guide you through the day.

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The names for this week are found on Loving Kindness .co

Please do read the list of names, as there is power to our reciting these names and appealing to Hashem with the act of reading with our eyes AND moving our lips and mouth to verbalise the names, that He regard the Tehillim recited by this group during daylight hours on Shabbos as sufficient merit to bring Yeshuah (salvation) to all on the list and in deed to all Am Yisrael.

Shabbat Shalom

Shoshanah