What makes a mother’s love so powerful? Today, on Mother's Day, we honor the middah of Hakarat HaTov – Recognizing the Good. Mussar teaches us to open our eyes to the quiet, consistent acts of love and sacrifice that often go unseen. Whether it’s a kind word, a warm meal, or unwavering support, mothers shape our lives in ways we carry forever. Take a moment today to pause and say thank you. What good can you recognize and express gratitude for right now? #MothersDay #Mussar #HakaratHaTov #Gratitude #JewishWisdom #SpiritualGrowth (fb)

Shabbat Shalom! This week, as we journey through the double portion of Acharei Mot–Kedoshim (Leviticus 16:1–20:27), we are invited not only into the sacred rhythms of ancient ritual and ethical law, but also into the quiet, powerful work of the soul. Rabbi Eric Gurvis, reflecting through the lens of Mussar, shares a poignant story of unexpected reconnection—an encounter over breakfast that transformed past discomfort into mutual respect. At the heart of this moment was a living expression of the verse: "בְּצֶדֶק תִּשְׁפֹּט עֲמִיתֶךָ" – “With equity shall you judge your fellow” (Leviticus 19:15). This commandment becomes more than an ethical guideline—it’s a doorway into kedushah, holiness, through the practice of dan l’khaf zechut, judging others favorably. Mussar masters like the Orchot Tzaddikim and the Chofetz Chayim urge us to look beneath the surface, to notice the potential for growth, change, and shared humanity even when we’ve been hurt or misunderstood. Rabbi Gurvis realized in retrospect that his middot—especially anavah (humility), kavod (honor), and hakarat ha-tov (gratitude)—helped him rise above old narratives. The result? A healing conversation, and perhaps even the beginning of something new. 🌟 Could it be that this is what it means to be holy—to choose connection over conflict, to let compassion reframe the past? As we strive to fulfill the call of “Kedoshim tihyu – You shall be holy”, let’s ask ourselves: 🕊 When have I been invited to see someone with new eyes? 🤝 Which middah might help me move toward healing or reconnection? ⚖ What would it look like for me to judge more favorably—and live more fully—in the spirit of equity and love? Wishing you a Shabbat of reflection, connection, and gentle growth. Shabbat Shalom! #ParshatKedoshim #MussarMoments #DanLKafZechut #JewishWisdom #TorahReflection #ShabbatShalom #SacredEncounters #ChofetzChayim #Kedushah #Anavah #HakaratHaTov #OrchotTzaddikim (fb)