ב"ה

Mishpatim 5765 - February 4, 2005

Once Upon a Donkey

It was an age of boors and ascetics, a time of conflict between body and soul. Then a master appeared. "Don't beat your beast," he taught, "don't overload him and don't abandon him. Help him"
Parshah
Mishpatim in a Nutshell
Many laws are introduced to the fledgling nation. Among the 53 laws presented are the laws of servants, and the observance of the seasonal festivals and the kosher laws. Moses ascends to heaven for 40 days and nights to receive the Torah.
Story
Special Powers

After many long minutes, the Rebbe finally lifted his head from his arms and said solemnly: "You can go home. Your wife just gave birth to a baby boy..."
A Middle Aged Mystic in Macy's

Some men hit middle age and buy a sports car. I bought pants
The Disappearing Sea

The water recedes, causing his toes to sink into the sand; it rushes back to cover his legs up to his knees. Small waves, big waves. The further the wave recedes, and the longer before it breaks, the further it will charge up the beach . . .
Should We Have Children?

My wife and I long ago decided against having children. We are happy with our lives and don't feel that we need the added burden of parenthood...
A woman of valor is the crown of her husband
— Proverbs 12:4