Jewish wisdom can be tremendously practical when it comes to living our best lives. The basis for much of this wisdom comes from the Torah. Ideas like not gossiping (good luck with that one, right?), or forgiving someone who screwed up, can lead to a more peaceful life. But Judaism doesn't just say, "oh, you should forgive (insert name)" or "you should be a move loving partner." Judaism gives advice on how to carry out the ideas, too. This section has readings and information that will help you get through your day-to-day ups and downs so that you can be a happier human, especially when you need a little help. 

We're not The People of the Book for nothing.

The Golden Rule

The Torah On One Foot

One day Rabbi Hillel, a well-known sage from the era of BCE, was challenged to teach the entire Torah – so basically everything about Judaism – while standing on one foot. (Meaning really fast!) His response was something like this: “What is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbor. That is the whole Torah; the rest is commentary. Now go and study it!” It’s basically the Golden Rule so many of us were taught as kids. Smart, right? Judaism has lots of gems like that. Start with our readings, and if you want more insights, go to the JELP section for some of our favorite resources.

 

 

You want wise? We invented Krav Maga, Waze and Soda Stream.

Life Wisdom Readings

Starfish

-Eleanor Lerman

Eleanor Lerman, winner of the 2006 Lenore Marshall Poetry Prize, is known for writing poems that feel relatable and almost familiar. Reviews for this poem range from realistic but gloomy, to fierce and honest. We think it is chillingly beautiful and think you will too.

First line: This is what life does. Last line: And then life sends you back to bed, to dreamland, while outside, the starfish drift through the channel, with smiles on their starry faces as they head out to deep water, to the far and boundless sea…

 

The Holstee Manifesto

-Mike, Fabian and Dave Holstee

Holstee, originally founded as a t-shirt company in 2009, is most well-known for their motivational business manifesto. Written by the founders as a way to solidify their personal and business values, this Manifesto has been likened to Nike’s Just Do It, but better.

First line: This is your Life. Last line: Life is short. Live your dreams and share your passion…

 

Teaching Your Children About God

-Rabbi David J. Wolpe

Might be our favorite reading. Not kidding.

First line: There was once a man who stood before God, his heart breaking from the pain and injustice in the world. Last line: God responded, “I did, I sent you.”…

It Is So Tempting To Want The Answers Before We Begin The Journey

-Mark Nepo

Lighten up and your journey will become clear to you. That’s what this reading is all about. Nice advice if you are chill enough to hear it.

First line: It is so tempting to want the answers before we begin the journey. Last line: Over time, a picture starts to emerge by which we begin to understand our place in the world…

See All 16 Life Wisdom Readings

"Things always get better," - Dave Goldstein's mom.

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