He is outside in the crisp, cool air, running free. He has nowhere to be and no one to answer to. Someone is calling his name. He is jerked back inside by the grating voice and the persistent question he has grown to hate. “What’s the next word?” He doesn’t even bother trying to guess. … Continue reading Memories of a Disenchanted Past – Part 5
Memories of a Disenchanted Past – Part 4
There’s a table at the front of the room. It is set up as a stage and the Rebbe is demonstrating how to take three steps back for Shemone Esrei. It is very confusing for him. He doesn’t really understand what’s going on. He grows bored with the lesson and soon begins to fidget. His … Continue reading Memories of a Disenchanted Past – Part 4
Shall I Go On?
So you have all been given glimpses into my sordid past. Here’s why. Whenever I read about “Kids At Risk” or “Off The Derech”, I get irritated. Granted, there are many people who are professionally trained to deal with teenagers and many who truly understand the situation. However, there are a lot more people who … Continue reading Shall I Go On?
Memories of a Disenchanted Past – Part 3
She loved the shivers that ran down her spine as she began her trek down. The stairs were steep and uneven. She could never find a rhythm to match the descent. At the bottom, there were two options. To the left were concrete flooring, musty smells, dim lighting, the boiler, tools, and a mound of … Continue reading Memories of a Disenchanted Past – Part 3
The Losing Game
Love is not a game for losers…losers make hearts bleed and blister...losers never get it right… Hearts can get broken… they can shatter… wilt…they can cease to beat… Dying cries of murdered love…whispered accusations…wordless shame… Nothing can bring back the sparks that set the fire ablaze…nothing can extinguish the rage…nothing can make this cold fire … Continue reading The Losing Game
Colloquially Speaking 