reflection. introspection. evaluation. commitment. decision. hope. remorse. resolve. thought. clarity. sadness. elation. intensity. pain. connection. lucidity. confusion. joy. comfort. sincerity. hunger. renewal.
These words define Yom Kippur for me. What words define yours?
Friday, September 13, 2013
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
Camp Update
Hi! Now that we're two full weeks into camp, here's a little update about what's been going on. As always, the best way to get up to the minute info is by following us on Facebook and Twitter.
Last week, we celebrated July 4th in good, old fashioned US tradition, with a baseball game, fireworks and BBQ. The baseball game ended in a walk-off grand slam, so it doesn't get much better than that! We also had a wacky mall scavenger hunt, where, among other things, campers had to find some of our staff members who were dressed to blend in subtly (or in some cases, not so subtly) to the mall clientelle.
A large part of camp, of course is our sports league, and the teams of Fungus, Warts, Moles and Athlete's Foot (yes, I did really just say that) are competing hard every day and looking forward to playoffs beginning Thursday.
We have a new initiative in camp called "Try New Stuff" (TNS). Campers who do something for the first time get up on the wall. Entries have included a camper saddling his own horse, using the high diving board, and even a camper learning to read Hebrew!
Last night we broke out Color War, an intense 2 day competition, and as we speak, the teams of Orange and Blue are on their way back from their aqua races, and looking forward to tonights grand plays.
Here are a few scheduling updates:
We leave camp on our overnight roadtrip on Sunday morning, so if you need to reach our camp office or if you have mail to send, please do so by Friday.
We'll be meeting for a pick-up/ Ice- cream party at Paseo Verde Park on Monday at 11am (luggage will be across the road at Ahavas Torah Center).
Arizona campers will then continue on with van transportation to both Phoenix and Tucson.
We wish you have-a-Nageela day!
Rabbi Dani Locker
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
The best ROI
Camp rocks, we all know that. Kids spend a few weeks in a fun, nurturing environment and they grow as people, as individuals. All true. But what's the true impact of Jewish camp? The Foundation for Jewish Camp has published a comprehensive study adults who've attended camps, and aside from the astounding fact that they all seem to like s'mores, they also found some fascinating, although not altogether surprising information. See the full study here. Not only are adults who attended Jewish camp as children 45% more likely to attend Synagogue... 55% more likely to feel connected to Israel... They also GIVE MORE!
Adults who attended Jewish Camp as children are 30% more likely to donate to a Jewish charity!
When you give a dollar to charity, you're concerned where it goes. How much goes into marketing, and how much to the actual purpose (non- profit Jewish camps happen to be great about putting the money where it's needed). But what about the lonnnnnnnnnng term effects for the Jewish people? When you give to a Jewish camp's scholarship fund, not only are you creating a powerfully positive experience for children, you're seriously investing in the Jewish future. You're creating: a. An individual who will remain connected to Judaism as an adult, and b. A giver who will be 30% more likely to give to Jewish causes 10, 20, 50 years down the line.
Now if donating to Jewish camp scholarships isn't a great ROI, I don't know what is!
To donate to Nageela's scholarship fund, please click here- and make sure to specify that it's for scholarship!
Adults who attended Jewish Camp as children are 30% more likely to donate to a Jewish charity!
When you give a dollar to charity, you're concerned where it goes. How much goes into marketing, and how much to the actual purpose (non- profit Jewish camps happen to be great about putting the money where it's needed). But what about the lonnnnnnnnnng term effects for the Jewish people? When you give to a Jewish camp's scholarship fund, not only are you creating a powerfully positive experience for children, you're seriously investing in the Jewish future. You're creating: a. An individual who will remain connected to Judaism as an adult, and b. A giver who will be 30% more likely to give to Jewish causes 10, 20, 50 years down the line.
Now if donating to Jewish camp scholarships isn't a great ROI, I don't know what is!
To donate to Nageela's scholarship fund, please click here- and make sure to specify that it's for scholarship!
Sunday, March 24, 2013
The original scavenger hunt?
There have been multiple movies centered around grand scavenger hunts. The DaVinci Code, National Treasure and others. Apple's App Store hosts more than 50 scavenger hunt apps.
What's the origin if the scavenger hunt? Who knows?
Many believe it has its roots in early hunting games. It's widely believed to have been popularized again in the 1930s.
In Camp Nageela West, we have the DaNiSH (Dani's Nageela Scavenger Hunt), a popular and wacky hunt.
But Jews have always done a Passover scavenger hunt... Well, 2 actually.
The Mishna, compiled nearly two thousand years ago describes the annual candle- lit search for chametz on the night preceding Passover. This year, it's tonight, and we search every spot where we might have brought leavened- grain based (non matzah) products.
Probably of more recent origin, but still fairly common is the children's hunt for the afikoman at the Seder (Monday and Tuesday nights respectively, this year). According to some, this practice may also be alluded to in the Mishna. For more on this hunt, check out this very thorough article http://www.yutorah.org/togo/5768/pesach//articles/rabbi_flug.pdf.
At any rate, we've been doing this hunting thing for ages!
Happy Passover, and Happy Hunting!
What's the origin if the scavenger hunt? Who knows?
Many believe it has its roots in early hunting games. It's widely believed to have been popularized again in the 1930s.
In Camp Nageela West, we have the DaNiSH (Dani's Nageela Scavenger Hunt), a popular and wacky hunt.
But Jews have always done a Passover scavenger hunt... Well, 2 actually.
The Mishna, compiled nearly two thousand years ago describes the annual candle- lit search for chametz on the night preceding Passover. This year, it's tonight, and we search every spot where we might have brought leavened- grain based (non matzah) products.
Probably of more recent origin, but still fairly common is the children's hunt for the afikoman at the Seder (Monday and Tuesday nights respectively, this year). According to some, this practice may also be alluded to in the Mishna. For more on this hunt, check out this very thorough article http://www.yutorah.org/togo/5768/pesach//articles/rabbi_flug.pdf.
At any rate, we've been doing this hunting thing for ages!
Happy Passover, and Happy Hunting!
Friday, March 22, 2013
To choose or not to choose...
Some time within the past ten years, I overheard a fascinating conversation. An immigrant couple, originally from the former Soviet Union, was discussing the future musical enrichment of their newborn child. In her heavy accent, the young mother expressed her concern that her son might not enjoy playing piano. Igor, her husband, impassionately assured her that there was no problem. "We make practice every day. Then he enjoy."
"But what if he never enjoys?"
"We make practice more. Then he enjoy."
I grew up in a camp with no choices. Period.
Well, that's not precisely true; we had the choice not to attend activities at all, and in my younger years, largely disinterested in the sports- dominated activities, I spent a great deal of time sprawled on my paper- thin camp mattress, reading and achieving ever higher scores in Tetris. To this day, I can't get Alexey Phazitnov's Tetris theme song out of my mind. No, really. It's stuck.
I read so much that at the end of my summer following 5th grade my camp award featured the accolade, "Speed Reading."
Eventually I learned to appreciate the camp activities, and bonded with the same friends year after year, and the activities held greater enjoyment for me. Never during those years did I consider that choosing my activities could be a part of camp. I did have 'Choose your own Adventure' books, but that doesn't really count.
In 2013, many camps offer elective- heavy programs, and it's not just camp. Schools, clubs, sports leagues- for better or for worse- kids have more input into their lives. Are elective activities better for our children, or should camp activities be assigned to them? Here's a list of possible benefits on both sides of the debate:
The case for assigned activities:
1. Varied experiences:
Electives may be fun, but they pigeon- hole the campers into a limited number or style of activities. Assigned activities assure a rich variety of activities, which (unless you attend a specialty camp) is a great thing.
2. Age appropriate:
A dozen boys sign up for a basketball elective. 3 of them are 9 years old. Another bunch are 12,and there is a 14- year- old in the group as well (kind of resembles the first round of March Madness). In group activities campers are usually scheduled with only their own age group.
3. Staff:
Campers develop a unique rapport with their cabin staff. It's great positive relationship building when that very same counselor is with them at the soccer game, archery range or gaga pit.
4. Safety:
You want your camp to always know precisely where your child is. When she's with her bunk or cabin, that is a given. In a hectic specialty activity where each camper chooses what she wants, it's easier for a child to slip through the cracks.
5. Lemonade:
At the risk of overdramatizing... thinking you can only be happy if you get the exact scenario of your choice will ruin your life. You can be one of those people who enjoys life or one of the people who complains about it... Seriously- years of camp have proven that kids can have an amazing time doing things they would never have imagined they could enjoy. Instead of getting to choose your wand, your wand will get to choose you. You'll like it.
6. The closer:
One can't quantify the benefit of the friendships and lifelong connections a child makes in camp. Additionally, the feeling of group comeraderie, particularly among campers who return year after year, is what camp is all about. If the choice is between a more exciting activity, or an activity that will contribute to life- changing friendship, I'll take the latter any day.
The case for electives:
1. Show me the love:
Hey, I came to camp to have fun. I like paintball. I don't like knitting. Why would you force me to do something I don't love?
2. Serious skill development:
Many elective programs are ongoing, so over the course of a week or two I can learn a skill well, like basket weaving, making hair accessories out of duct tape, shooting free throws or icing a cake.
3. Friendship variety:
Your child probably has 10-15 campers and a handful of staff in her cabin. Attending activities with like-minded peers not necessarily in her cabin allows her to expand her friendship circle two or threefold. It also gives her a chance to bond with more staff members.
4.Empowerment:
Children need to feel important, like they can make meaningful choices in their lives. By simply choosing waterfront over track, your son has just asserted mastery over one small aspect of his life. One small step...
5. Bed making:
Sometimes a camper will make a poor selection, teaching the ever valuable lesson of learning to deal with the ramifications of your error. We feel for you, but it was your decision and you've got to work through it.
Suggestions:
If you've selected a quality Jewish camp, you can't go wrong. Most camps do have a hybrid system where some activities are preselected and some are electives. All will lead to a fun and meaningful experience your child will never forget. Be educated. Know the right questions to ask. Also, don't forget that some camps have office staff who know little about the camp's activities- speak to someone who does.
Assuming you do choose a camp with at least some element of electives, here's a word of advice for your child:
Hey kid, don't come out to camp just to do the same thing you do all year. Really, we get that you like tennis. Go try something new. One of my camp mottos is TNS- Try New Stuff. Go ahead, I dare you.
How important are a camp's activities to begin with? That's for another blog post...
"But what if he never enjoys?"
"We make practice more. Then he enjoy."
Well, that's not precisely true; we had the choice not to attend activities at all, and in my younger years, largely disinterested in the sports- dominated activities, I spent a great deal of time sprawled on my paper- thin camp mattress, reading and achieving ever higher scores in Tetris. To this day, I can't get Alexey Phazitnov's Tetris theme song out of my mind. No, really. It's stuck.
I read so much that at the end of my summer following 5th grade my camp award featured the accolade, "Speed Reading."
Eventually I learned to appreciate the camp activities, and bonded with the same friends year after year, and the activities held greater enjoyment for me. Never during those years did I consider that choosing my activities could be a part of camp. I did have 'Choose your own Adventure' books, but that doesn't really count.
In 2013, many camps offer elective- heavy programs, and it's not just camp. Schools, clubs, sports leagues- for better or for worse- kids have more input into their lives. Are elective activities better for our children, or should camp activities be assigned to them? Here's a list of possible benefits on both sides of the debate:
The case for assigned activities:
1. Varied experiences:
Electives may be fun, but they pigeon- hole the campers into a limited number or style of activities. Assigned activities assure a rich variety of activities, which (unless you attend a specialty camp) is a great thing.
2. Age appropriate:
A dozen boys sign up for a basketball elective. 3 of them are 9 years old. Another bunch are 12,and there is a 14- year- old in the group as well (kind of resembles the first round of March Madness). In group activities campers are usually scheduled with only their own age group.
3. Staff:
Campers develop a unique rapport with their cabin staff. It's great positive relationship building when that very same counselor is with them at the soccer game, archery range or gaga pit.
4. Safety:
You want your camp to always know precisely where your child is. When she's with her bunk or cabin, that is a given. In a hectic specialty activity where each camper chooses what she wants, it's easier for a child to slip through the cracks.
5. Lemonade:
At the risk of overdramatizing... thinking you can only be happy if you get the exact scenario of your choice will ruin your life. You can be one of those people who enjoys life or one of the people who complains about it... Seriously- years of camp have proven that kids can have an amazing time doing things they would never have imagined they could enjoy. Instead of getting to choose your wand, your wand will get to choose you. You'll like it.
6. The closer:
One can't quantify the benefit of the friendships and lifelong connections a child makes in camp. Additionally, the feeling of group comeraderie, particularly among campers who return year after year, is what camp is all about. If the choice is between a more exciting activity, or an activity that will contribute to life- changing friendship, I'll take the latter any day.
The case for electives:
1. Show me the love:
Hey, I came to camp to have fun. I like paintball. I don't like knitting. Why would you force me to do something I don't love?
2. Serious skill development:
Many elective programs are ongoing, so over the course of a week or two I can learn a skill well, like basket weaving, making hair accessories out of duct tape, shooting free throws or icing a cake.
3. Friendship variety:
Your child probably has 10-15 campers and a handful of staff in her cabin. Attending activities with like-minded peers not necessarily in her cabin allows her to expand her friendship circle two or threefold. It also gives her a chance to bond with more staff members.
4.Empowerment:
Children need to feel important, like they can make meaningful choices in their lives. By simply choosing waterfront over track, your son has just asserted mastery over one small aspect of his life. One small step...
5. Bed making:
Sometimes a camper will make a poor selection, teaching the ever valuable lesson of learning to deal with the ramifications of your error. We feel for you, but it was your decision and you've got to work through it.
Suggestions:
If you've selected a quality Jewish camp, you can't go wrong. Most camps do have a hybrid system where some activities are preselected and some are electives. All will lead to a fun and meaningful experience your child will never forget. Be educated. Know the right questions to ask. Also, don't forget that some camps have office staff who know little about the camp's activities- speak to someone who does.
Assuming you do choose a camp with at least some element of electives, here's a word of advice for your child:
Hey kid, don't come out to camp just to do the same thing you do all year. Really, we get that you like tennis. Go try something new. One of my camp mottos is TNS- Try New Stuff. Go ahead, I dare you.
 |
| sample day's activities at camp nageela west |
Monday, March 18, 2013
99 reasons to go to camp
Campfires
Horses
Basketball
BFFs
Tie dyeing
Mountain scenery
Night activities
Dancing
Gaga
Trying new stuff
Fresh air
S'mores
Boating
The amazing staff
Archery
Color war!
Fishing
Tennis
The canteen
Breakout!
Soccer
Drama workshop
Cholent
The candle ceremony
Grilled cheese
Mountain Dew
Bunk day
Stump the rabbi
BBQs
Friday night oneg
Sneak outs
Fireworks
The amazing trips
Music video
Swimming
Flash mob
Football
Volleyball
Prisoner
Paint twister
Hunger games
Archery
Baseball
Smell the cake
OTB
Leagues
Giant slip n slide
Capture the flag
Getting in shape
Ultimate
Hiking
Challah making
Escape to America
Learning a new skill
Shmoooozing
Paintball
Plunger eclipse
Music
Nageela's got talent
Jet skiing
Saturday afternoon live
The peacocks
Iron man
Water fight
Arts n crafts
Pillow fights
Crazy races
Duct tape art
Shabbos is going away songs
Popcorn
The Danish
The banquet
Hockey
Machachinski
Unbirthdays
Chilling in the bunk
Multiplex madness
Dodge ball
Ices
Hot cocoa
The amazing food
Birthday cakes
Ice cream
Pancakes
Funny hats
Painting
Watching Sunrise
Wilderness training
Costume night
The grand sing
Living independently
Aishes chayil/ shabbos tweets
Walmart
Scavenger hunt
Camp tee shirts
The creek
The beach @ bear lake
Lighting shabbos candles
Making a fool of yourself and loving it
Horses
Basketball
BFFs
Tie dyeing
Mountain scenery
Night activities
Dancing
Gaga
Trying new stuff
Fresh air
S'mores
Boating
The amazing staff
Archery
Color war!
Fishing
Tennis
The canteen
Breakout!
Soccer
Drama workshop
Cholent
The candle ceremony
Grilled cheese
Mountain Dew
Bunk day
Stump the rabbi
BBQs
Friday night oneg
Sneak outs
Fireworks
The amazing trips
Music video
Swimming
Flash mob
Football
Volleyball
Prisoner
Paint twister
Hunger games
Archery
Baseball
Smell the cake
OTB
Leagues
Giant slip n slide
Capture the flag
Getting in shape
Ultimate
Hiking
Challah making
Escape to America
Learning a new skill
Shmoooozing
Paintball
Plunger eclipse
Music
Nageela's got talent
Jet skiing
Saturday afternoon live
The peacocks
Iron man
Water fight
Arts n crafts
Pillow fights
Crazy races
Duct tape art
Shabbos is going away songs
Popcorn
The Danish
The banquet
Hockey
Machachinski
Unbirthdays
Chilling in the bunk
Multiplex madness
Dodge ball
Ices
Hot cocoa
The amazing food
Birthday cakes
Ice cream
Pancakes
Funny hats
Painting
Watching Sunrise
Wilderness training
Costume night
The grand sing
Living independently
Aishes chayil/ shabbos tweets
Walmart
Scavenger hunt
Camp tee shirts
The creek
The beach @ bear lake
Lighting shabbos candles
Making a fool of yourself and loving it
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Let my people go... To camp
Jewish Camp and the Exodus
By Rabbi Dani Locker, Director, Camp Nageela West
Many words have been used to describe the institution of Jewish camp. Inspirational, Relaxing, Fun, even Epic. But Biblical?
With the advent of Passover this year, as any, Jews ponder the relevance of the Exodus story in their own lives. After all, as the author of the Haggadah puts it, “Each person is obligated to see him or herself as if he or she has personally exited Egypt.” In Las Vegas it has a literal meaning, as we take off from MaCarran airport with the pyramid of the Luxor in the background, toward our campus in Utah, a place which , although lacking milk and honey, is called Zion by many.
Vegas aside, think about the Exodus narrative. Sure, we think of the ancient Hebrews as slaves who had to work, work, work every day and every night, which is true. The more significant problem, though was that of a spiritual holocaust.
For two hundred and ten years, the children and grandchildren of Jacob settled into Egypt as Jews have done throughout history. They prospered, they multiplied, and became thoroughly Egyptian. Many Jews adopted Egyptian idolatry. When God announced to His heavenly minions the masterplan of the exodus, the angels reacted with confusion, "we can't tell the difference between the Israelites and the Egyptians!".
Leaving the oppressive confines of Egypt, our nation was able to develop our own identity, away from the confusing influences of Egypt.
When a Jewish child lives in our confusing World, it may become difficult for that child to pinpoint exactly what being 'Jewish' means. They may unknowingly quote the angels, "I can't tell the difference between myself and my friends. Am I different?"
Leaving the city, immersed for three weeks in a proud Jewish environment... Experiencing the excitement of a Shabbat dance, the electricity of a kumzitz and the clarity of a simple, explanatory service connects him in a real way to the Jewish people.
Independence is a factor as well, and I don't mean the national sort. As slaves, there are few decisions one can make on his own. Eat this, build this, wear this. Finally as free people, our ancestors were truly able to grow as individuals.
Children are oft comparing themselves to slaves. True, their complaints and their requests for unlimited jelly beans or to eliminate bedtime may not be justified. Yet three weeks in an Environment where they develop away from their family, away from school , away from who everyone else wants them to be, gives that maturing boy or girl a very special chance to be themselves. Really themselves.
Oh, and don't forget the camping under the stars...
We can continue making comparisons, but the
Message is clear... Let my people go... To camp!
By Rabbi Dani Locker, Director, Camp Nageela West
Many words have been used to describe the institution of Jewish camp. Inspirational, Relaxing, Fun, even Epic. But Biblical?
With the advent of Passover this year, as any, Jews ponder the relevance of the Exodus story in their own lives. After all, as the author of the Haggadah puts it, “Each person is obligated to see him or herself as if he or she has personally exited Egypt.” In Las Vegas it has a literal meaning, as we take off from MaCarran airport with the pyramid of the Luxor in the background, toward our campus in Utah, a place which , although lacking milk and honey, is called Zion by many.
Vegas aside, think about the Exodus narrative. Sure, we think of the ancient Hebrews as slaves who had to work, work, work every day and every night, which is true. The more significant problem, though was that of a spiritual holocaust.
For two hundred and ten years, the children and grandchildren of Jacob settled into Egypt as Jews have done throughout history. They prospered, they multiplied, and became thoroughly Egyptian. Many Jews adopted Egyptian idolatry. When God announced to His heavenly minions the masterplan of the exodus, the angels reacted with confusion, "we can't tell the difference between the Israelites and the Egyptians!".
Leaving the oppressive confines of Egypt, our nation was able to develop our own identity, away from the confusing influences of Egypt.
When a Jewish child lives in our confusing World, it may become difficult for that child to pinpoint exactly what being 'Jewish' means. They may unknowingly quote the angels, "I can't tell the difference between myself and my friends. Am I different?"
Leaving the city, immersed for three weeks in a proud Jewish environment... Experiencing the excitement of a Shabbat dance, the electricity of a kumzitz and the clarity of a simple, explanatory service connects him in a real way to the Jewish people.
Independence is a factor as well, and I don't mean the national sort. As slaves, there are few decisions one can make on his own. Eat this, build this, wear this. Finally as free people, our ancestors were truly able to grow as individuals.
Children are oft comparing themselves to slaves. True, their complaints and their requests for unlimited jelly beans or to eliminate bedtime may not be justified. Yet three weeks in an Environment where they develop away from their family, away from school , away from who everyone else wants them to be, gives that maturing boy or girl a very special chance to be themselves. Really themselves.
Oh, and don't forget the camping under the stars...
We can continue making comparisons, but the
Message is clear... Let my people go... To camp!
What's the real tragedy here?
I don't normally read the Las Vegas Review Journal. Not that I have anything against the RJ, it's a fine newspaper. I just get my news from more traditional sources, like ESPN...
On a serious note, I noticed the front page yesterday while at the Coffee Bean and the headline jumped out at me.
"I-15 Crash Stalls Race Fans"
The headline shows a photo of race victor Matt Kenseth holding a child, a great, feel- good headline article. The problem is the subtitle.
"Fatality slows traffic from speedway for for several hours."
The RJ has sent it's message loud and clear. Traffic is a bigger story than a 31 year old woman losing her life.
Shame on RJ. Shame on us as a society that's more interested in 'my schedule' than another human's pain.
On a serious note, I noticed the front page yesterday while at the Coffee Bean and the headline jumped out at me.
"I-15 Crash Stalls Race Fans"
The headline shows a photo of race victor Matt Kenseth holding a child, a great, feel- good headline article. The problem is the subtitle.
"Fatality slows traffic from speedway for for several hours."
The RJ has sent it's message loud and clear. Traffic is a bigger story than a 31 year old woman losing her life.
Shame on RJ. Shame on us as a society that's more interested in 'my schedule' than another human's pain.
Friday, January 18, 2013
Too many Jews believe in Judaism :)
I recently read an extensive study regarding stats of religions in this country. A few key points jumped out at me.
At first I was shocked only 5% of Jews believe Judaism is the one true faith. I get that most people have doubts, but 5%, when the national average is 24% seemed distinctly disturbing.
Then I took a look at the wording (see bottom of chart) and I began to wonder why that number was so high! Allow me to explain.
In stark contrast to other notable faith systems, Judaism believes that anyone can earn 'eternal life' even if they are not Jewish.
To put it simply, if I were asked the question, I'd answer with choice B: Many religions can lead to eternal life. Frankly, I'm not sure who the 5% are. There shouldn't be so many...
Now if you want to discuss what will earn the maximum ROI in terms of eternal life, different story. Then it's only our one true faith.
Another interesting stat caught my eye. This next chart details how important religion is to people across different demographics. According to the study, approximately 70% of Jews feel that religion is at least somewhat important. What caught my attention, though was the 'unaffiliated' percentage. According to the full report,
"the majority of the unaffiliated population is made up of people who simply describe their religion as "nothing in particular." This group, in turn, is fairly evenly divided between the "secular unaffiliated," that is, those who say that religion is not important in their lives (6.3% of the adult population), and the "religious unaffiliated," that is, those who say that religion is either somewhat important or very important in their lives."
Wait a second... Are you trying to tell me that there's a significant group who says religion is very important in their lives, but define their religion as 'nothing in particular'?
Which aspect of nothing, precisely, is very important in their lives?
I could be wrong on this, but it dawned on me how differently Jews view religion. I think many of he the participants in this study think of religion as nothing more than a belief. My 'belief in something', even if that something is undefined can be very important to my life. Judaism teaches that religion isn't a platitude, or a box that you check on a survey. It's a commitment to a set of actions and values. That can only be meaningful if these values are defined, clear, relevant. Watching sports can't be an important part of your life if you don't have access to a TV (OK, or online streaming). Cooking dinner can't be an important part of my day if I haven't decided on a menu. Religion can't be an integral part of my life if I haven't defined what exactly (or at least approximately) it is I that I follow.
"Oh, religion is part of your life... Do you go to a church or synagogue (not really).
Do you pray? (not to anyone in particular)
Do you follow a set of moral values set by your religion? (nope, I do what i want). "
I hope I'm making sense. I get that I'm sort of rambling. I recall once listening to sports talk radio and hearing the hosts (I believe it was Mike & Mike) express astonishment at a caller who was married to a 'die hard' fan of the rival team. They couldn't understand how (although as they explained religious intermarriage made perfect sense to them) that marriage could work. Because to them, religion is at most an intellectual belief in something abstract, not a true set of values with any impact on life. Sports, on the other hand...
How do YOU define religion?
Is it more than an abstract belief? If it's not, you've got a lot to learn about it.
At first I was shocked only 5% of Jews believe Judaism is the one true faith. I get that most people have doubts, but 5%, when the national average is 24% seemed distinctly disturbing.
In stark contrast to other notable faith systems, Judaism believes that anyone can earn 'eternal life' even if they are not Jewish.
To put it simply, if I were asked the question, I'd answer with choice B: Many religions can lead to eternal life. Frankly, I'm not sure who the 5% are. There shouldn't be so many...
Now if you want to discuss what will earn the maximum ROI in terms of eternal life, different story. Then it's only our one true faith.
Another interesting stat caught my eye. This next chart details how important religion is to people across different demographics. According to the study, approximately 70% of Jews feel that religion is at least somewhat important. What caught my attention, though was the 'unaffiliated' percentage. According to the full report,
"the majority of the unaffiliated population is made up of people who simply describe their religion as "nothing in particular." This group, in turn, is fairly evenly divided between the "secular unaffiliated," that is, those who say that religion is not important in their lives (6.3% of the adult population), and the "religious unaffiliated," that is, those who say that religion is either somewhat important or very important in their lives."
Wait a second... Are you trying to tell me that there's a significant group who says religion is very important in their lives, but define their religion as 'nothing in particular'?
Which aspect of nothing, precisely, is very important in their lives?
I could be wrong on this, but it dawned on me how differently Jews view religion. I think many of he the participants in this study think of religion as nothing more than a belief. My 'belief in something', even if that something is undefined can be very important to my life. Judaism teaches that religion isn't a platitude, or a box that you check on a survey. It's a commitment to a set of actions and values. That can only be meaningful if these values are defined, clear, relevant. Watching sports can't be an important part of your life if you don't have access to a TV (OK, or online streaming). Cooking dinner can't be an important part of my day if I haven't decided on a menu. Religion can't be an integral part of my life if I haven't defined what exactly (or at least approximately) it is I that I follow.
"Oh, religion is part of your life... Do you go to a church or synagogue (not really).
Do you pray? (not to anyone in particular)
Do you follow a set of moral values set by your religion? (nope, I do what i want). "
I hope I'm making sense. I get that I'm sort of rambling. I recall once listening to sports talk radio and hearing the hosts (I believe it was Mike & Mike) express astonishment at a caller who was married to a 'die hard' fan of the rival team. They couldn't understand how (although as they explained religious intermarriage made perfect sense to them) that marriage could work. Because to them, religion is at most an intellectual belief in something abstract, not a true set of values with any impact on life. Sports, on the other hand...
How do YOU define religion?
Is it more than an abstract belief? If it's not, you've got a lot to learn about it.
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