CALENDAR

Please join Rabbi Debra for the following public events:

SHABBAT, Congregation B'nai Israel
Fridays, 8 PM, Saturday's 10 AM, 53 Palisade Ave., Emerson, NJ.
Rabbi Orenstein and Cantor Lenny Mandel conduct. For information call 201-265-2272 or go to: www.bisrael.com.

SWEET TASTS OF TORAH III, Fair Lawn Jewish Center
Saturday, February 4, 6:30 PM, 1010 Norma Ave., Fair Lawn, NJ
More than 25 North Jersey rabbis, including our own Rabbi Orenstein (speaking about "Gratitude as Jewish Spiritual Practice"), will be teaching at this event that celebrates the rhythm and music of Jewish life. Inspired by Shabbat Shirah, or Shabbat of Song, there will be a special musical Havdalah as well as dessert. Click Here for Registration Information. This will be the first time that the Jewish community of Bergen County is gathering together for fellowship and learning following the attacks on synagogues. The Board of Rabbis is providing undercover police protection, and we will also honor the synagogues and clergy who have withstood attacks. Please come for a delightful evening of learning and music, which will also be a statement for and by the Jewish community of our determination to carry on with the work of God and Torah -- no matter what.

Class Description:
Gratitude As a Jewish Spiritual Practice, Even in Difficult Times
“Say thank you,” your mother or father may have prompted you as a child. It turns out that expressing gratitude is more than polite. Ancient Sages and contemporary social scientists agree: gratitude is both powerful and beneficial. It’s not just that happy people are, naturally enough, grateful. Gratitude causes people to become happier. Moreover, acknowledging the good in your life is not only good for you - it's a mitzvah! In times of adversity, this mitzvah can seem unfair or unwelcome, yet it is precisely when times are tough that we benefit from gratitude the most. In this class, we will explore Jewish texts, practices, and even humor around both kvetching and praising. We will also engage in some gratitude exercises -- enabling participants to fully take in and enjoy the good that is already in our lives and opening ourselves up to new blessings.