We were asked to write a few reflections about this Living Legacy Leadership Conference. I've decided to share it with you.
Chabad has truly been a blessing in my life. This conference has only helped to reinforce my love and respect for this organization. There are certain moments in life that show the strength and power of the Jewish people and the Jewish community. The past few days was overflowing with these moments. Whether we were meeting with the Chief Rabbi of Israel, Senators from all over the country, ambassadors and scholars from around the world, or prize winning author Elie Wiesel, we could feel that we were in the presence of greatness. Each and everyone of us was inspired and humbled by their words of wisdom. It was truly a privilege and an honor to meet with such important people, specifically because each one of them was proud to be a Jew. Coming from a family that immigrated to this country to get away from religious persecution, this conference helped to strengthen my connection with Judaism and encourage me to wear my star of David proudly. The Living Legacy conference showed me that success and Judaism are not separate entities, but rather support one another. Our immaculate network throughout the globe proves this. Our communities global impact, with the personal touch added by Chabad, makes me beam with joy. It gives me great security and confidence knowing the well-being of the Jewish people is in the hands of Chabad. They are true leaders and innovators. They teach, inspire, and love. With each and every passing day, another individual is positively influenced by Chabad, and it is remarkable to think that one man's words could have such a ripple effect. Chabad is carrying the torch, a spark started by the Rebbe. I am honored to aid them in their mission, and hope that one day I will be able to give back to them even a bit of what they have given me.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Truely Inspiring
When we awoke today, we headed back to the St. Regis to meet our police escort. We were dining at Capital Hill with over 100 Rabbi's and other Jewish leaders from all over the world. Once there, we met with numerous senators, house represenatives, and ambassadors from all over who addressed us about Judaism, politics, Israel, government, and of coarse, leadership. It was such an honor for all of these individuals to take time out of their extremely busy schedule to speak with us. Names like Bonner and Joe Liberman were just two of the names in attendance.
Once breakfast was finished, but not before we took pictures in front of the capital, we headed over to hear a pannel of Rabbis speak. The pannel consisted of published authors and PHD's in multiple subjects. I was quite impressed.
During lunch we got to hear from more ambassadors and Rabbis from all over the globe. Each had their own inspiration message to share, and each one was unique and thought-provoking.
When we finished eating, we made our way back to the St. Regis to meet with some very important people. Mr and Mrs. Mayberg met with us. They are the ones who funded us being here, and it was wonderful to meet them both. As they spoke of their own struggles with Judaism and how they became religious, I heard my own voice inside, and could relate. Also, the executive director of AIPAC met with us. He discussed leadership in regards to the defense and pride of Israel.
The speaker I was most excited for though was Elie Wiesel. I had read his book "Night" in tenth and eleventh grade, and even done various projects and presentations on certain aspects of it. Though old and frail, he was truely amench. Through all his hardships, obstacles, and pure torture, he was able to not only survive, but also tell his tale. He is the most beautiful of men with a soul that is optimistic, hopeful, and quite spiritual. It was truely a proud moment when I was able to ask him a question about a certain passage in his book. One thing he said was, "Never try to please anyone. Just be yourself."
After pictures, and a quick scene change, we were headed to our Gala Banquet Dinner Event. Once again, we were addressed by very important people, including Elie Wiesel again, and even some students who discussed their experiences with Chabad.
It is truely inspirational to think that one man, the Lubavitcher Rebbe Menachem Mendel Shneerson, could have such a large impact. Not only were these words, this was a clear and present action. We were there because of him. He always taught that the best way to fight darkness is with light. Each and every day Chabad house, all over the world, follows this message, and spreads this message, and so he lives on. His inspiration is only continuing to blossom and grow, and with each passing day a new man, woman, or child learns of his goodness that lives on today in the Mitzvot of the Shluchim and their congregations.
We must all strive to better ourselves every day. Each and every one of us is capable of making a difference. The Rebbe believed that each act could tip the scale of goodness. Any one kind deed, or mitzvot, could bring Moshiach. What have you done today? Are you tipping the scale in the best direction? Do a mitzvah today... in memory of this great man... Honor this memory with a mitzvah. Just do it. It could just tip the scale.
Once breakfast was finished, but not before we took pictures in front of the capital, we headed over to hear a pannel of Rabbis speak. The pannel consisted of published authors and PHD's in multiple subjects. I was quite impressed.
During lunch we got to hear from more ambassadors and Rabbis from all over the globe. Each had their own inspiration message to share, and each one was unique and thought-provoking.
When we finished eating, we made our way back to the St. Regis to meet with some very important people. Mr and Mrs. Mayberg met with us. They are the ones who funded us being here, and it was wonderful to meet them both. As they spoke of their own struggles with Judaism and how they became religious, I heard my own voice inside, and could relate. Also, the executive director of AIPAC met with us. He discussed leadership in regards to the defense and pride of Israel.
The speaker I was most excited for though was Elie Wiesel. I had read his book "Night" in tenth and eleventh grade, and even done various projects and presentations on certain aspects of it. Though old and frail, he was truely amench. Through all his hardships, obstacles, and pure torture, he was able to not only survive, but also tell his tale. He is the most beautiful of men with a soul that is optimistic, hopeful, and quite spiritual. It was truely a proud moment when I was able to ask him a question about a certain passage in his book. One thing he said was, "Never try to please anyone. Just be yourself."
After pictures, and a quick scene change, we were headed to our Gala Banquet Dinner Event. Once again, we were addressed by very important people, including Elie Wiesel again, and even some students who discussed their experiences with Chabad.
It is truely inspirational to think that one man, the Lubavitcher Rebbe Menachem Mendel Shneerson, could have such a large impact. Not only were these words, this was a clear and present action. We were there because of him. He always taught that the best way to fight darkness is with light. Each and every day Chabad house, all over the world, follows this message, and spreads this message, and so he lives on. His inspiration is only continuing to blossom and grow, and with each passing day a new man, woman, or child learns of his goodness that lives on today in the Mitzvot of the Shluchim and their congregations.
We must all strive to better ourselves every day. Each and every one of us is capable of making a difference. The Rebbe believed that each act could tip the scale of goodness. Any one kind deed, or mitzvot, could bring Moshiach. What have you done today? Are you tipping the scale in the best direction? Do a mitzvah today... in memory of this great man... Honor this memory with a mitzvah. Just do it. It could just tip the scale.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Ballin in DC... It's not easy bein a VIP!
Weeks ago, I was selected on behalf of Chabad at Temple to go to the Living Legacy Leadership Conference in DC. With a few schedule adjustments, I quickly made it a point to be there. There was NO WAY I was missing this.
All week my nerves were getting to me. I didn't know what to expect and I couldn't shake this uncommon anxiety. This wasn't my first leadership conference, and hopefully not my last. What was there to worry about?
Last night, some friends took me out to wish me all the best, and still I couldn't shake these nerves. Everything felt like a bad omen. The anxiety was building. The two black cats on the way home didn't help either.
I awoke this morning still feeling anxious, but none-the-less embarked on my journey. The journey itself was miserable. First, there were issues with money. Then, I thought I left my ID at the bank... when I was already half way to DC... then, I thought I couldn't get gas. Once I arrived in DC, in a fairly timely manner, I spent an hour and a half circling the hotel. Just as my bladder was about to burst, tears flooded down my face as I sobbed to my mommy like a little girl.
Once I arrived at the St. Regis... yes that's right, you heard me... I was quickly told that I was staying at the Marriot Courtyard elsewhere. The drama continues. One wrong cab ride to the wrong location, and finally a second cab ride later, I was there. I threw my bags down, I approached the concierge, and I received my key. Top floor... not too shabby!
When I got into my room, the first thing I noticed was the view! I could see the Washington Monument! Too bad I lost so much time. Otherwise, I'd go exploring. As my adorable roommate Dana walked in, we quickly got acquainted and went downstairs to meet others.
Everyone decided to walk, and so I felt the need to not isolate myself by cabbing it back to the St. Regis for registration. As we strolled down Connecticut Ave, we noticed the diverse population of restaurants and bars. There was so many to choose from and each had its own unique style. As we debated whether we'd have time to check any out later, and who had what kind of fake ID, I was thankful that I no longer had to worry about that.
As we arrived at the St. Regis, we were informed that we were a bit early and so decided to take a stroll two blocks over... to the White House. :) As we took out cheesy tourist photos for mom and dad, we all felt slightly important being there "on business." Though we were all slightly disturbed by the anti-Israel protest happening outside, we bit our tongues, and decided it was neither the time or the place to start trouble. We would only make ourselves, our organization, and our schools look bad.
Back at the St. Regis, we were registered and treated to dinner... and an open bar! Name tags that listed not only our names and schools, but also our states, added to the appeal of being there. An heir of importance was felt as we entered the room and received our badges and pins. Dinner was delicious. I was quite impressed. Men and women in tuxedos walked around serving appetizers, while I delighted in some conversation with students from schools all over the country.... Harvard, Princton, Columbia, Penn... just to name a few. ;)
Around 8pm, we had our opening session with Rabbi Sneiderman from University of Delaware and Rabbi Shemtov, who planned the event. As we did a few ice-breakers, it was soon time for our first special guest. Rabbi Yona Metzger, Chief Rabbi of Israel, flew in all the way from the Holy Land to speak with us. It was incredible. It was an intimate setting, and the man spoke with such passion and grace. We could tell we were in the presence of greatness. As he kept a consistent, very sincere smile on his face, you could tell he was a man who took great pride in his work, and more so, derived great pleasure from it. It was truely an honor to meet him. We even got to take pictures with him and was able to ask him a question!
As if that wasn't exciting enough for one night, they had more in store. As they began to hand out snacks, we noticed they became more Jewish by the minute... nuts... crackers... then potato salad... pickles... and then herring... lol... You know just a little midnight snack. Professor Tali Lowenthal flew in from London to join us for a farbrengen. A farbrengen is a Chasidic tradition, when people gather around and discuss topics of religious, philosopical, spiritual, and ethical importance. Often times it is accompanied by watching one self-reflect and have epiphanies about meaningful things to one's life.
By the time we were done, it was 12:30am. As I asked Professor Lowenthal one last question, I missed the first shuttle bus, and had to catch the second back to the hotel. Apparently, this was a gift from G-d in disguise. I ended up meeting another student who used to work for a law school admissions office. He gave me tons of great advise, and I couldn't even be more thankful!
It's 2:40am now, and I gotta be up at 6am. A police escort is taking us to have breakfast at Capital Hill. What can I say? It's not easy bein a VIP. Ballin!
All week my nerves were getting to me. I didn't know what to expect and I couldn't shake this uncommon anxiety. This wasn't my first leadership conference, and hopefully not my last. What was there to worry about?
Last night, some friends took me out to wish me all the best, and still I couldn't shake these nerves. Everything felt like a bad omen. The anxiety was building. The two black cats on the way home didn't help either.
I awoke this morning still feeling anxious, but none-the-less embarked on my journey. The journey itself was miserable. First, there were issues with money. Then, I thought I left my ID at the bank... when I was already half way to DC... then, I thought I couldn't get gas. Once I arrived in DC, in a fairly timely manner, I spent an hour and a half circling the hotel. Just as my bladder was about to burst, tears flooded down my face as I sobbed to my mommy like a little girl.
Once I arrived at the St. Regis... yes that's right, you heard me... I was quickly told that I was staying at the Marriot Courtyard elsewhere. The drama continues. One wrong cab ride to the wrong location, and finally a second cab ride later, I was there. I threw my bags down, I approached the concierge, and I received my key. Top floor... not too shabby!
When I got into my room, the first thing I noticed was the view! I could see the Washington Monument! Too bad I lost so much time. Otherwise, I'd go exploring. As my adorable roommate Dana walked in, we quickly got acquainted and went downstairs to meet others.
Everyone decided to walk, and so I felt the need to not isolate myself by cabbing it back to the St. Regis for registration. As we strolled down Connecticut Ave, we noticed the diverse population of restaurants and bars. There was so many to choose from and each had its own unique style. As we debated whether we'd have time to check any out later, and who had what kind of fake ID, I was thankful that I no longer had to worry about that.
As we arrived at the St. Regis, we were informed that we were a bit early and so decided to take a stroll two blocks over... to the White House. :) As we took out cheesy tourist photos for mom and dad, we all felt slightly important being there "on business." Though we were all slightly disturbed by the anti-Israel protest happening outside, we bit our tongues, and decided it was neither the time or the place to start trouble. We would only make ourselves, our organization, and our schools look bad.
Back at the St. Regis, we were registered and treated to dinner... and an open bar! Name tags that listed not only our names and schools, but also our states, added to the appeal of being there. An heir of importance was felt as we entered the room and received our badges and pins. Dinner was delicious. I was quite impressed. Men and women in tuxedos walked around serving appetizers, while I delighted in some conversation with students from schools all over the country.... Harvard, Princton, Columbia, Penn... just to name a few. ;)
Around 8pm, we had our opening session with Rabbi Sneiderman from University of Delaware and Rabbi Shemtov, who planned the event. As we did a few ice-breakers, it was soon time for our first special guest. Rabbi Yona Metzger, Chief Rabbi of Israel, flew in all the way from the Holy Land to speak with us. It was incredible. It was an intimate setting, and the man spoke with such passion and grace. We could tell we were in the presence of greatness. As he kept a consistent, very sincere smile on his face, you could tell he was a man who took great pride in his work, and more so, derived great pleasure from it. It was truely an honor to meet him. We even got to take pictures with him and was able to ask him a question!
As if that wasn't exciting enough for one night, they had more in store. As they began to hand out snacks, we noticed they became more Jewish by the minute... nuts... crackers... then potato salad... pickles... and then herring... lol... You know just a little midnight snack. Professor Tali Lowenthal flew in from London to join us for a farbrengen. A farbrengen is a Chasidic tradition, when people gather around and discuss topics of religious, philosopical, spiritual, and ethical importance. Often times it is accompanied by watching one self-reflect and have epiphanies about meaningful things to one's life.
By the time we were done, it was 12:30am. As I asked Professor Lowenthal one last question, I missed the first shuttle bus, and had to catch the second back to the hotel. Apparently, this was a gift from G-d in disguise. I ended up meeting another student who used to work for a law school admissions office. He gave me tons of great advise, and I couldn't even be more thankful!
It's 2:40am now, and I gotta be up at 6am. A police escort is taking us to have breakfast at Capital Hill. What can I say? It's not easy bein a VIP. Ballin!
Friday, June 11, 2010
"Adult Moments"
It has occurred to me lately that we all feel like children most of the time... that is until we realize our growth and or our responsibilities. These are the certain moments in life that make you feel like an adult...
I was recently hired as an intern for a very wonderful company. As I got ready for work one day this week, I began to notice some of these "adult moments." The morning began with a stain. Without thinking too hard about it, I went into the bathroom and in the sink began to wash it out with soup. Though this may not seem like such a big deal to the common eye, I had a moment of epiphany. How would I have reacted to this a year ago, two years ago, five years ago? I would've cried. I would've screamed. I would've ran to mommy and asked her to deal with it. As I thought back to Rome... I recalled washing all my laundry in the bath tub and how annoying it was, but yet, I did it. This one article of clothing was no different. Though there was nothing to freak out about, I had noticed my own personal growth, and thus an "adult moment."
As I walked downstairs in my professional attire, I noticed my father look at me. He looked at me with pride in his eyes. I could tell he was having a "my baby's growing up moment," and thus I began to ponder on my drive to the office. I earned this job. My resume and my interview were something to be proud of. I was/am something to be proud of. And so, I began to think about all the long hours of studying, all the crappy jobs, and all the experiences that went into this resume and interview. These two seemingly minor aspects are not so minor. The way we present ourselves, though in the moment, do not happen in that moment. It takes years of preparation, hard work, priorities, and responsibilities. And so, as I walked into the office, feeling rather good about myself, I had yet another "adult moment."
Throughout my work day, I continued to ponder this idea. Many seemingly irrelevant and insignificant moments in life are actually what add up to mean a whole lot. These moments are exactly what help establish us as the people we become. Every moment spent studying, working, meeting people, hanging out with friends, spending time with family, partying... anything... All these moments add up and turn us into these "adults." It is the experiences we have and the lessons we learn that equate one with adulthood. Yet, it isn't until we have these sporadic moments of reflection that we realize all we've been through and how far each and every one of us has come.
So although I still consider myself a little baby, I suppose that I too have come a long way. And although I still have a long way to go, it is always nice to take a moment, adult or not, to notice where I was, where I am, and maybe even dream about where I'll be.
I was recently hired as an intern for a very wonderful company. As I got ready for work one day this week, I began to notice some of these "adult moments." The morning began with a stain. Without thinking too hard about it, I went into the bathroom and in the sink began to wash it out with soup. Though this may not seem like such a big deal to the common eye, I had a moment of epiphany. How would I have reacted to this a year ago, two years ago, five years ago? I would've cried. I would've screamed. I would've ran to mommy and asked her to deal with it. As I thought back to Rome... I recalled washing all my laundry in the bath tub and how annoying it was, but yet, I did it. This one article of clothing was no different. Though there was nothing to freak out about, I had noticed my own personal growth, and thus an "adult moment."
As I walked downstairs in my professional attire, I noticed my father look at me. He looked at me with pride in his eyes. I could tell he was having a "my baby's growing up moment," and thus I began to ponder on my drive to the office. I earned this job. My resume and my interview were something to be proud of. I was/am something to be proud of. And so, I began to think about all the long hours of studying, all the crappy jobs, and all the experiences that went into this resume and interview. These two seemingly minor aspects are not so minor. The way we present ourselves, though in the moment, do not happen in that moment. It takes years of preparation, hard work, priorities, and responsibilities. And so, as I walked into the office, feeling rather good about myself, I had yet another "adult moment."
Throughout my work day, I continued to ponder this idea. Many seemingly irrelevant and insignificant moments in life are actually what add up to mean a whole lot. These moments are exactly what help establish us as the people we become. Every moment spent studying, working, meeting people, hanging out with friends, spending time with family, partying... anything... All these moments add up and turn us into these "adults." It is the experiences we have and the lessons we learn that equate one with adulthood. Yet, it isn't until we have these sporadic moments of reflection that we realize all we've been through and how far each and every one of us has come.
So although I still consider myself a little baby, I suppose that I too have come a long way. And although I still have a long way to go, it is always nice to take a moment, adult or not, to notice where I was, where I am, and maybe even dream about where I'll be.
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