Egypt loved the lotus becuase it never dies. It is the same for people who are loved. Thus can something as insignificant as a name-two syllables, one high, one sweet- summon up the innumerable smiles, tears, sighs and dreams of a human life.

Since 1985, I have written about contemporary Jewish practice and the Jewish community.

Mountains are where heaven meets earth.

I love many kinds of music: world music, jazz, classical, pop.

Weeping is terrible for the complexion" said Leonie, holding Shayndel close, "but it is very good for the soul.

Death is no enemy, but the foundation of gratitude, sympathy, and art. Of all life's pleasures, only love owes no debt to death.

I moved my arms through the water, feeling them float on the surface, watching the waves and wake that followed my gesture. Here was magic, I thought. Here was something holy.