Podcasts about Hanukkah

Rest is not a reward—it's a biological necessity. This guided meditation for rest helps calm mental fatigue, quiet the nervous system, and release the pressure to do or resolve anything before the year ends. Through gentle affirmation and reflection, this episode supports deep rest, emotional recovery, and nervous system regulation—perfect for the quiet days between the active holiday season and New Year. This is day 2 of a 7-day meditation series, "Closing the Year with Gratitude and Grace Meditations," episodes 3437-3443. ABOUT THIS WEEK'S MEDITATION JOURNEY: Closing the Year with Gratitude & Grace is a 7-day year-end meditation series designed to help you gently release the past year, calm your nervous system, and enter the New Year with clarity, balance, and embodied peace. This daily meditation podcast series blends science-backed insight, storytelling, and guided practices to support emotional healing, stress relief, and mindful transition. Recorded as a special bonus series and offered as a gift of gratitude, these meditations guide you through the natural arc of release, rest, grounding, protection, nurturing, balance, and embodiment. Each episode includes a short teaching followed by a guided meditation using techniques such as visualization, breathwork, affirmations, mudras, and heart-centered awareness. Whether you're looking for a gratitude meditation, a New Year meditation, a nervous system reset, or a peaceful way to close the year with intention, this series offers calm, comfort, and timeless wisdom—perfect for Christmas, Hanukkah, and the final days of the year. THIS WEEK'S CHALLENGE - "The Gratitude Completion Practice " Each day, write one sentence beginning with: "This year taught me…" No fixing, no judging. On Day 7, read all seven sentences aloud. THIS WEEK'S MEDITATION JOURNEY  Day 1:  Releasing What No Longer Serves You Visualization Day 2:  Affirmation: "I honor what was. I keep the wisdom. I release the weight." Day 3:  Extended Exhale Breath Day 4:  Hridaya mudra for compassion Day 5:  Fourth Chakra for love and compassion Day 6:  New Awakenings Flow meditation, combining the week's techniques Day 7:  Weekly review meditation and closure SHARE YOUR MEDITATION JOURNEY WITH YOUR FELLOW MEDITATORS Let's connect and inspire each other! Please share a little about how meditation has helped you by reaching out to me at Mary@SipandOm.com or better yet -- direct message me on https://www.instagram.com/sip.and.om. We'd love to hear about your meditation ritual!  WAYS TO SUPPORT THE DAILY MEDITATION PODCAST SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss a single episode. Consistency is the KEY to a successful meditation ritual. SHARE the podcast with someone who could use a little extra support. I'd be honored if you left me a podcast review. If you do, please email me at Mary@sipandom.com and let me know a little about yourself and how meditation has helped you. I'd love to share your journey to inspire fellow meditators on the podcast! All meditations are created by Mary Meckley and are her original content. Please request permission to use any of Mary's content by sending an email to Mary@sipandom.com. FOR DAILY EXTRA SUPPORT OUTSIDE THE PODCAST Each day's meditation techniques are shared at: sip.and.om Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sip.and.om/ sip and om Facebook https://www.facebook.com/SipandOm/ SIP AND OM MEDITATION APP Looking for a little more support? If you're ready for a more in-depth meditation experience, allow Mary to guide you in daily 30-minute guided meditations on the Sip and Om meditation app. Give it a whirl for 7-days free! Receive access to 3,000+ 30-minute guided meditations customized around a weekly theme to help you manage emotions. Receive a Clarity Journal and a Slow Down Guide customized for each weekly theme.  2-Week's Free Access on iOS https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/sip-and-om/id1216664612?platform=iphone&preserveScrollPosition=true#platform/iphone All meditations are created by Mary Meckley and are her original content. Please request permission to use any of Mary's content by sending an email to Mary@sipandom.com.Let go of repetitive negative thoughts. The beach waves were composed by Mike Koenig. Music composed by Christopher Lloyd Clark licensed by RoyaltyFreeMusic.com, and also by musician Greg Keller.

Lionel dissects the high bar for Congressional expulsion, explains why unpopular speech isn't a crime, and battles "phone privilege night" callers on everything from the National Guard to why Hanukkah isn't "crowding" Christmas. From the horrifying reality of human egg farms in Georgia to the legal paradoxes of cloning and AI, this is a deep dive into the "abcedarian" truths of our republic that you won't hear anywhere else. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This year-end meditation invites you to gently release emotional weight, mental clutter, and nervous system tension from the past year. Through science-backed insight and guided visualization, you'll learn how release supports stress reduction and emotional healing—without forcing closure or positivity. This daily meditation is designed to help you let go safely, soften the body, and begin the New Year transition with grace and ease. This is day 1 of a 7-day meditation series, "Closing the Year with Gratitude and Grace Meditations," episodes 3437-3443. ABOUT THIS WEEK'S MEDITATION JOURNEY: Closing the Year with Gratitude & Grace is a 7-day year-end meditation series designed to help you gently release the past year, calm your nervous system, and enter the New Year with clarity, balance, and embodied peace. This daily meditation podcast series blends science-backed insight, storytelling, and guided practices to support emotional healing, stress relief, and mindful transition. Recorded as a special bonus series and offered as a gift of gratitude, these meditations guide you through the natural arc of release, rest, grounding, protection, nurturing, balance, and embodiment. Each episode includes a short teaching followed by a guided meditation using techniques such as visualization, breathwork, affirmations, mudras, and heart-centered awareness. Whether you're looking for a gratitude meditation, a New Year meditation, a nervous system reset, or a peaceful way to close the year with intention, this series offers calm, comfort, and timeless wisdom—perfect for Christmas, Hanukkah, and the final days of the year. THIS WEEK'S CHALLENGE - "The Gratitude Completion Practice " Each day, write one sentence beginning with: "This year taught me…" No fixing, no judging. On Day 7, read all seven sentences aloud. THIS WEEK'S MEDITATION JOURNEY  Day 1:  Releasing What No Longer Serves You Visualization Day 2:  Affirmation: "I honor what was. I keep the wisdom. I release the weight." Day 3:  Extended Exhale Breath Day 4:  Hridaya mudra for compassion Day 5:  Fourth Chakra for love and compassion Day 6:  New Awakenings Flow meditation, combining the week's techniques Day 7:  Weekly review meditation and closure SHARE YOUR MEDITATION JOURNEY WITH YOUR FELLOW MEDITATORS Let's connect and inspire each other! Please share a little about how meditation has helped you by reaching out to me at Mary@SipandOm.com or better yet -- direct message me on https://www.instagram.com/sip.and.om. We'd love to hear about your meditation ritual!  WAYS TO SUPPORT THE DAILY MEDITATION PODCAST SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss a single episode. Consistency is the KEY to a successful meditation ritual. SHARE the podcast with someone who could use a little extra support. I'd be honored if you left me a podcast review. If you do, please email me at Mary@sipandom.com and let me know a little about yourself and how meditation has helped you. I'd love to share your journey to inspire fellow meditators on the podcast! All meditations are created by Mary Meckley and are her original content. Please request permission to use any of Mary's content by sending an email to Mary@sipandom.com. FOR DAILY EXTRA SUPPORT OUTSIDE THE PODCAST Each day's meditation techniques are shared at: sip.and.om Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sip.and.om/ sip and om Facebook https://www.facebook.com/SipandOm/ SIP AND OM MEDITATION APP Looking for a little more support? If you're ready for a more in-depth meditation experience, allow Mary to guide you in daily 30-minute guided meditations on the Sip and Om meditation app. Give it a whirl for 7-days free! Receive access to 3,000+ 30-minute guided meditations customized around a weekly theme to help you manage emotions. Receive a Clarity Journal and a Slow Down Guide customized for each weekly theme.  2-Week's Free Access on iOS https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/sip-and-om/id1216664612?platform=iphone&preserveScrollPosition=true#platform/iphone All meditations are created by Mary Meckley and are her original content. Please request permission to use any of Mary's content by sending an email to Mary@sipandom.com.Let go of repetitive negative thoughts. The beach waves were composed by Mike Koenig. Music composed by Christopher Lloyd Clark licensed by RoyaltyFreeMusic.com, and also by musician Greg Keller.

In this concluding Mussar Masterclass (Day 110) of the Gate of Remembrance in Orchos Tzaddikim, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe wraps up the chapter's 30 remembrances, emphasizing their power to soften and illuminate the soul, remove darkness, and instill constant awareness of Hashem's presence. He urges listeners to revisit and expand on each point daily (or weekly), as remembrance drives action and teshuvah.Key themes include: living with perpetual consciousness of Hashem's constant watch (like a king always holding a Torah scroll), rejecting grudges while remembering personal wrongs to seek forgiveness, and prioritizing inner spiritual growth over external validation. The rabbi stresses that true value lies in maximizing one's unique potential before Hashem, who believes in us even when we doubt ourselves. He highlights the tragedy of death as lost opportunity for mitzvot, encouraging immediate action in this world to build eternal merit. The episode ends with gratitude for collective Torah study and a teaser for the next Gate: Forgetfulness.Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on May 5, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on December 28, 2025_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Remembrance, #Constant, #Awareness, #Teshuvah, #HashemSeesAll, #TorahStudy, #SpiritualGrowth, #OrchosTzaddikim ★ Support this podcast ★

May all the blessings and joys of the holiday season gladden your hearts, spirits, and gatherings with loved ones as we celebrate Hanukkah, Christmas, and Kwanza. Throughout the month of December our theme will be, “Celebrating the Season of Spiritual Light.” It is with a thankful heart that I invite you to join us as […]

In this concluding Mussar Masterclass (Day 110) of the Gate of Remembrance in Orchos Tzaddikim, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe wraps up the chapter's 30 remembrances, emphasizing their power to soften and illuminate the soul, remove darkness, and instill constant awareness of Hashem's presence. He urges listeners to revisit and expand on each point daily (or weekly), as remembrance drives action and teshuvah.Key themes include: living with perpetual consciousness of Hashem's constant watch (like a king always holding a Torah scroll), rejecting grudges while remembering personal wrongs to seek forgiveness, and prioritizing inner spiritual growth over external validation. The rabbi stresses that true value lies in maximizing one's unique potential before Hashem, who believes in us even when we doubt ourselves. He highlights the tragedy of death as lost opportunity for mitzvot, encouraging immediate action in this world to build eternal merit. The episode ends with gratitude for collective Torah study and a teaser for the next Gate: Forgetfulness.Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on May 5, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on December 28, 2025_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Remembrance, #Constant, #Awareness, #Teshuvah, #HashemSeesAll, #TorahStudy, #SpiritualGrowth, #OrchosTzaddikim ★ Support this podcast ★

Welcome to the final episode of our joy journey—an invitation to gather everything you've practiced and carry it forward as a living, breathing way of being. In this longer, closing meditation, you'll be guided to return to your joyful center—breath by breath—until joy feels less like an idea and more like a felt experience in your body. From that steadiness, you'll reflect on what it means to choose joy as a daily practice: not by avoiding life, but by meeting life with a softer nervous system, clearer boundaries, and a kinder inner voice. This finale is about integration. You'll anchor into the kind of joy you can return to in real moments—before a difficult conversation, in the middle of a busy day, or when the world feels heavy. Be guided as you immerse yourself in the healing balm of nature. Then, as we close the series, you'll gently expand that joy outward—offering it to the people you love, your community, and the wider world—knowing that what you cultivate within truly matters. Thank you for being here, for showing up for yourself, and for choosing a more joyful way forward. This is day 7 of a 7-day meditation series, "Awaken to Joy Celebration Meditations," episodes 1297-1303. ABOUT THIS WEEK'S MEDITATION JOURNEY: As the year gently comes to a close, this special episode of Awaken to Joy Celebration Meditations invites you into a sacred pause. Between this week's celebrations of Christmas and Hanukkah, and any other spiritual celebrations, light and love are celebrated in different ways—but the invitation is the same: to slow down, reflect, and soften into gratitude. This special bonus episode of Awaken to Joy is part of a meditation series I recorded a few years ago—created not for a moment in time, but for moments like this. As the year draws to a close and the light of celebration fills the season, I wanted to offer this meditation as a gift of gratitude to you, my listeners. These reflections are timeless by design—an invitation to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with peace, gratitude, and inner light. Whether you're celebrating, resting, or simply needing a pause, this meditation is my way of saying thank you for being here. May it bring you calm, comfort, and gentle joy as one year ends and another begins. ✨ With deep gratitude, ✨ A moment of stillness, just for you ✨ A new beginning softly forming. YOUR WEEKLY CHALLENGE: "The Unconditional Joy Challenge" This week, your mission is to share unconditional joy with 3 people daily: someone you know a stranger and someone who is difficult in your life (you've got this) THIS WEEK'S MEDITATION JOURNEY  Day 1:  Embracing Joy Visualization Day 2:  Affirmation: "I awaken my inner joy." Day 3:  Breathing: Inhale Joy - Exhale Light Day 4:  Heart mudra for inner joy Day 5:  Third Chakra to connect to your passions Day 6:  Awaken to Joy Flow meditation, combining the week's techniques Day 7:  Weekly review meditation and closure SHARE YOUR MEDITATION JOURNEY WITH YOUR FELLOW MEDITATORS Let's connect and inspire each other! Please share a little about how meditation has helped you by reaching out to me at Mary@SipandOm.com or better yet -- direct message me on https://www.instagram.com/sip.and.om. We'd love to hear about your meditation ritual!  WAYS TO SUPPORT THE DAILY MEDITATION PODCAST SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss a single episode. Consistency is the KEY to a successful meditation ritual. SHARE the podcast with someone who could use a little extra support. I'd be honored if you left me a podcast review. If you do, please email me at Mary@sipandom.com and let me know a little about yourself and how meditation has helped you. I'd love to share your journey to inspire fellow meditators on the podcast! All meditations are created by Mary Meckley and are her original content. Please request permission to use any of Mary's content by sending an email to Mary@sipandom.com. FOR DAILY EXTRA SUPPORT OUTSIDE THE PODCAST Each day's meditation techniques are shared at: sip.and.om Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sip.and.om/ sip and om Facebook https://www.facebook.com/SipandOm/ SIP AND OM MEDITATION APP Looking for a little more support? If you're ready for a more in-depth meditation experience, allow Mary to guide you in daily 30-minute guided meditations on the Sip and Om meditation app. Give it a whirl for 7-days free! Receive access to 3,000+ 30-minute guided meditations customized around a weekly theme to help you manage emotions. Receive a Clarity Journal and a Slow Down Guide customized for each weekly theme.  2-Week's Free Access on iOS https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/sip-and-om/id1216664612?platform=iphone&preserveScrollPosition=true#platform/iphone All meditations are created by Mary Meckley and are her original content. Please request permission to use any of Mary's content by sending an email to Mary@sipandom.com.Let go of repetitive negative thoughts. The beach waves were composed by Mike Koenig. Music composed by Christopher Lloyd Clark licensed by RoyaltyFreeMusic.com, and also by musician Greg Keller.

Kevin McCallister vs. Authority: Why Home Alone is a Libertarian Masterpiece Is Home Alone actually a movie about the failure of the state and the triumph of private property rights?

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Finding Light and Love: Ariel's Journey in Jerusalem Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2025-12-27-08-38-20-he Story Transcript:He: בירושלים העתיקה, בזמן החורף של חג החנוכה, אבנים עתיקות סיפרו סיפורים עתיקים וגשרים מוארים בחום זהוב הרגישו את שמחת החג המקיפה את הכול.En: In Yerushalayim (Jerusalem) of old, during the winter of Hanukkah, ancient stones told ancient stories and bridges illuminated in golden warmth felt the joy of the holiday that enveloped everything.He: אריאל, סטודנטית סקרנית ומחפשת משמעות, הגיעה לדרוך על האדמה הקדושה הזו כדי להרגיש חיבור עמוק יותר לשורשיה.En: Ariel, a curious and meaning-seeking student, arrived to tread on this holy ground to feel a deeper connection to her roots.He: בערב חגיגי של נרות חנוכה, אריאל נעמדה מול הכותל המערבי, מוקפת באנשים, במוזיקה ובשירה אשר מילאו את האוויר הקריר.En: On a festive evening of Hanukkah candles, Ariel stood before the Kotel HaMa'aravi (Western Wall), surrounded by people, music, and singing that filled the chilly air.He: היא רצתה למצוא משמעות ולהרגיש חלק מהחגיגות, אך גם היססה, לא בטוחה אם אכן זו מקומה.En: She wanted to find meaning and feel part of the celebrations, but she also hesitated, unsure if this was truly her place.He: בין ההמונים פגשה את דוד.En: Among the crowds, she met David.He: דוד היה מקומי חמים וקשוב, שהתנדב כמדריך והכיר בבקיאות כל אבן וכל סיפור בירושלים.En: David was a warm and attentive local, who volunteered as a guide and was knowledgeable about every stone and story in Yerushalayim (Jerusalem).He: חיוכו היה מדבק, ונראה היה שהוא מאיר באור משלו בכל מקום אליו הלך.En: His smile was infectious, and he seemed to light up every place he went.He: הוא קרא לה להצטרף אליו לסיור מיוחד באזור הכותל ובירושלים העתיקה.En: He invited her to join him on a special tour around the Kotel and in old Yerushalayim.He: אריאל, שעדיין הרגישה קצת אבודה, החליטה לנצל את ההזדמנות, להיפתח למסורת המקומית ולחברות החדשה עם דוד.En: Ariel, still feeling a bit lost, decided to seize the opportunity, open up to the local tradition, and explore the new friendship with David.He: השניים הלכו יחד בסמטאות הצרות, שם דוד הדגים לה כיצד כל פינה מספרת סיפור משל עצמה.En: The two walked together through the narrow alleys, where David demonstrated to her how every corner tells its own story.He: הם עצרו מול חנויות קטנות, היכן שנמכרו סופגניות ולביבות, והאווירה הייתה שמחה ומזמינה.En: They stopped in front of small shops, where sufganiyot and levivot were sold, and the atmosphere was joyful and inviting.He: ככל שעבר הזמן, אריאל הרגישה איזה חום בלב שלא הכירה.En: As time passed, Ariel felt a warmth in her heart that she hadn't known.He: היא הרגישה שייכת, למרות הזרות.En: She felt belonging, despite being a stranger.He: כשהגיע הרגע לשיאו, נרות החנוכה הודלקו בכותל המערבי.En: When the moment reached its peak, the Hanukkah candles were lit at the Kotel HaMa'aravi.He: אור חמים ורך נשטף עליהם, ואריאל ודוד עמדו יחד, מוקסמים מהמראה.En: Warm, soft light washed over them, and Ariel and David stood together, mesmerized by the sight.He: אריאל הרגישה משהו שהיה חסר לה, משהו עמוק ובעל משמעות אמיתית.En: Ariel felt something she had been missing, something deep and truly meaningful.He: הייתה זו רגע קסום של חיבור ורגע של התרחבות הלב.En: It was a magical moment of connection and a moment of the heart's expansion.He: אריאל הביטה בדוד והבינה שהיא רוצה להישאר, להמשיך לחקור ולהעמיק את הקשר שנוצר ביניהם.En: Ariel looked at David and realized that she wanted to stay, to continue exploring and deepening the relationship that had been formed between them.He: היא הייתה מוכנה להישאר מעבר לתכניתה המקורית, ומצאה עצמה מביטה לעבר עתיד חדש ומבטיח עם דוד לצידה.En: She was ready to stay beyond her original plan and found herself looking towards a new and promising future with David by her side.He: כך, בין נרות החנוכה וצלילי החגיגה, אריאל כבר לא הרגישה כזרה.En: Thus, between the Hanukkah candles and the sounds of celebration, Ariel no longer felt like a stranger.He: היא מצאה מקום בליבה לירושלים ולחברה החדשה שהולידה רגעי קסם בבית אבותיה.En: She found a place in her heart for Yerushalayim and the new friendship that had birthed moments of magic in the home of her ancestors.He: חג החנוכה הפך עבורה לסמל של אור, חיבור וזהות מחודשת.En: Hanukkah became for her a symbol of light, connection, and renewed identity. Vocabulary Words:ancient: עתיקהilluminated: מואריםenveloped: המקיפהtread: לדרוךhesitated: היססהattentive: קשובvolunteered: התנדבdemonstrated: הדגיםnarrow: צרותinviting: מזמינהmesmerized: מקסמיםbeyond: מעברgateway: שערroots: שורשיהfestive: חגיגיcurious: סקרניתconnection: חיבורstranger: זרהidentity: זהותexpansion: התרחבותpromising: מבטיחsurrounded: מוקפתknowledgeable: מכיר בבקיאותbelonging: שייכתshop: חנויותsufganiyot: סופגניותlevivot: לביבותmagical: קסוםmoment: רגעwarmth: חוםBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

12-26-25 - Guad Squares - Hanukah Edition - OJ - Oscar Schindler - Springsteen - Hanukah Brady - Jeff Goldblum - Gene Simmons - 2023 - BOSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Best of The Odd Couple Rob Parker and Andy Furman, filling in for Kelvin Washington, bring you a special Christmas Day edition of The Odd Couple! The guys kick things off by discussing what the Baltimore Ravens need to do: should they move on from HC John Harbaugh or QB Lamar Jackson? Then, they dive into James Nnaji, the 31st overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, committing to Baylor. Finally, Shay asks the crew, "What was the best Christmas or Hanukkah gift you received this year?" in a new edition of Shop Talk! EP: Shayan Moghangard (Producer Shay)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Day 6 is a gentle peace meditation for the third chakra (solar plexus)—the inner space of confidence, purpose, and passion. When life feels noisy or demanding, this center can tighten into pressure, self-doubt, or overthinking. Today's longer, supportive practice helps you return to a calmer relationship with your own power—so your passions can feel steady, warm, and true. You'll be guided to settle the breath, soften the body, and bring kind attention to the area above the belly button—inviting ease into the places where you've been holding yourself too tightly. As peace gathers within you, you'll reconnect with the quiet spark that says: I'm allowed to want what I want. I'm allowed to care. I'm allowed to begin again. This meditation is not about forcing motivation. It's about clearing space so your natural joy and desire can rise without pressure—grounded, sustainable, and aligned with who you are now. We'll close by gently expanding that peace outward, letting your calm confidence become something you carry into the world. This is day 6 of a 7-day meditation series, "Awaken to Joy Celebration Meditations," episodes 1297-1303. ABOUT THIS WEEK'S MEDITATION JOURNEY: As the year gently comes to a close, this special episode of Awaken to Joy Celebration Meditations invites you into a sacred pause. Between this week's celebrations of Christmas and Hanukkah, and any other spiritual celebrations, light and love are celebrated in different ways—but the invitation is the same: to slow down, reflect, and soften into gratitude. This special bonus episode of Awaken to Joy is part of a meditation series I recorded a few years ago—created not for a moment in time, but for moments like this. As the year draws to a close and the light of celebration fills the season, I wanted to offer this meditation as a gift of gratitude to you, my listeners. These reflections are timeless by design—an invitation to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with peace, gratitude, and inner light. Whether you're celebrating, resting, or simply needing a pause, this meditation is my way of saying thank you for being here. May it bring you calm, comfort, and gentle joy as one year ends and another begins. ✨ With deep gratitude, ✨ A moment of stillness, just for you ✨ A new beginning softly forming. YOUR WEEKLY CHALLENGE: "The Unconditional Joy Challenge" This week, your mission is to share unconditional joy with 3 people daily: someone you know a stranger and someone who is difficult in your life (you've got this) THIS WEEK'S MEDITATION JOURNEY  Day 1:  Embracing Joy Visualization Day 2:  Affirmation: "I awaken my inner joy." Day 3:  Breathing: Inhale Joy - Exhale Light Day 4:  Heart mudra for inner joy Day 5:  Third Chakra to connect to your passions Day 6:  Awaken to Joy Flow meditation, combining the week's techniques Day 7:  Weekly review meditation and closure SHARE YOUR MEDITATION JOURNEY WITH YOUR FELLOW MEDITATORS Let's connect and inspire each other! Please share a little about how meditation has helped you by reaching out to me at Mary@SipandOm.com or better yet -- direct message me on https://www.instagram.com/sip.and.om. We'd love to hear about your meditation ritual!  WAYS TO SUPPORT THE DAILY MEDITATION PODCAST SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss a single episode. Consistency is the KEY to a successful meditation ritual. SHARE the podcast with someone who could use a little extra support. I'd be honored if you left me a podcast review. If you do, please email me at Mary@sipandom.com and let me know a little about yourself and how meditation has helped you. I'd love to share your journey to inspire fellow meditators on the podcast! All meditations are created by Mary Meckley and are her original content. Please request permission to use any of Mary's content by sending an email to Mary@sipandom.com. FOR DAILY EXTRA SUPPORT OUTSIDE THE PODCAST Each day's meditation techniques are shared at: sip.and.om Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sip.and.om/ sip and om Facebook https://www.facebook.com/SipandOm/ SIP AND OM MEDITATION APP Looking for a little more support? If you're ready for a more in-depth meditation experience, allow Mary to guide you in daily 30-minute guided meditations on the Sip and Om meditation app. Give it a whirl for 7-days free! Receive access to 3,000+ 30-minute guided meditations customized around a weekly theme to help you manage emotions. Receive a Clarity Journal and a Slow Down Guide customized for each weekly theme.  2-Week's Free Access on iOS https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/sip-and-om/id1216664612?platform=iphone&preserveScrollPosition=true#platform/iphone All meditations are created by Mary Meckley and are her original content. Please request permission to use any of Mary's content by sending an email to Mary@sipandom.com.Let go of repetitive negative thoughts. The beach waves were composed by Mike Koenig. Music composed by Christopher Lloyd Clark licensed by RoyaltyFreeMusic.com, and also by musician Greg Keller.

This week, I started off in a bit of a mood. Ben's Hanukkah gift was a partial fail because I didn't realize ALL THE PIECES weren't included so that meant another trip to the Disney Store. We did a deep dive on Lucy's American Girl Doll origin story, which I, quite honestly, wasn't prepared for.Then, John and I recap our date with Lady Posh...then I went on a date where I put my foot in my mouth with the server.Plus, I was (sort of?) invited to Bette Midler's Birthday party, we talk about my staff holiday gifts, and then Sandra Bernhard joined us for our last show of the year.For more interviews and behind-the-scenes tea, tune in to Andy Cohen Live weekdays on Radio Andy by subscribing to SiriusXM. Use my link https://sxm.app.link/AndyCohen for a free trial! Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of Daddy Diaries ad-free and a whole week early. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this powerful Thinking Talmudist episode on Berachot 32b, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores the depth and intensity of prayer through a dramatic Talmudic story of a pious man so immersed in Shemoneh Esrei that he ignores a Roman general's greeting—risking death—because he is conversing directly with Hashem. The general, furious at being snubbed, quotes Torah verses about protecting one's life, but the pious man responds: if you wouldn't interrupt a human king, how much more so the King of Kings? The general is appeased, and the man departs in peace.Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes "da lifnei mi atah omed" (know before Whom you stand) as the essence of prayer: an intimate, uninterrupted conversation with the Creator, more important than perfect wording. He shares personal anecdotes (e.g., praying slowly alone in an empty shul) and stresses creating a "bubble" of focus amid distractions, while praising the beauty of children in synagogue as the future generation. The episode includes a touching tribute to his grandmother Rivka bas Avrohom (author of Faith in the Night), whose life exemplified unwavering faith amid Holocaust horrors, and reflections on empowering others through belief in their greatness._____________The Thinking Talmudist Podcast shares select teachings of Talmud in a fresh, insightful and meaningful way. Many claim that they cannot learn Talmud because it is in ancient Aramaic or the concepts are too difficult. Well, no more excuses. In this podcast you will experience the refreshing and eye-opening teachings while gaining an amazing appreciation for the divine wisdom of the Torah and the depths of the Talmud._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by David & Susan MarbinRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on November 7, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on December 26, 2025_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thinking-talmudist-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1648951154Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cZ7q9bGYSBYSPQfJvwgzmShare your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content._____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Talmud, #Berachot, #Prayer, #Conversation, #JewishFaith, #HolocaustSurvivor, #Spirituality ★ Support this podcast ★

12-26-25 - Guad Squares - Hanukah Edition - OJ - Oscar Schindler - Springsteen - Hanukah Brady - Jeff Goldblum - Gene Simmons - 2023 - BOSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this powerful Thinking Talmudist episode on Berachot 32b, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores the depth and intensity of prayer through a dramatic Talmudic story of a pious man so immersed in Shemoneh Esrei that he ignores a Roman general's greeting—risking death—because he is conversing directly with Hashem. The general, furious at being snubbed, quotes Torah verses about protecting one's life, but the pious man responds: if you wouldn't interrupt a human king, how much more so the King of Kings? The general is appeased, and the man departs in peace.Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes "da lifnei mi atah omed" (know before Whom you stand) as the essence of prayer: an intimate, uninterrupted conversation with the Creator, more important than perfect wording. He shares personal anecdotes (e.g., praying slowly alone in an empty shul) and stresses creating a "bubble" of focus amid distractions, while praising the beauty of children in synagogue as the future generation. The episode includes a touching tribute to his grandmother Rivka bas Avrohom (author of Faith in the Night), whose life exemplified unwavering faith amid Holocaust horrors, and reflections on empowering others through belief in their greatness._____________The Thinking Talmudist Podcast shares select teachings of Talmud in a fresh, insightful and meaningful way. Many claim that they cannot learn Talmud because it is in ancient Aramaic or the concepts are too difficult. Well, no more excuses. In this podcast you will experience the refreshing and eye-opening teachings while gaining an amazing appreciation for the divine wisdom of the Torah and the depths of the Talmud._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by David & Susan MarbinRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on November 7, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on December 26, 2025_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thinking-talmudist-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1648951154Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cZ7q9bGYSBYSPQfJvwgzmShare your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content._____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Talmud, #Berachot, #Prayer, #Conversation, #JewishFaith, #HolocaustSurvivor, #Spirituality ★ Support this podcast ★

A very Special Holiday Treat from Rabbi Chaim Eisen these dates from the darkest days starting with Adam and Eve, Exodus, Leviticus, Jeremiah, Haggai... Truly amazing connections for both Jews and Christians as we learn so much more about kindling lights.

Một chiếc xe mang biểu tượng lễ Chanukah đã bị đốt cháy bên ngoài nhà của một giáo sĩ Do Thái địa phương ở St Kilda East, Melbourne vào ngày Giáng sinh. Một lãnh đạo cộng đồng Do Thái cho rằng chủ nghĩa bài Do Thái phải được coi là vấn đề an ninh công cộng, trong bối cảnh nhà chức trách đang truy tìm nghi phạm đứng sau vụ đánh bom xăng được cho là do thù ghét sau vụ tấn công khủng bố ở Bondi.

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Winter Laughs & Lessons: A Hanukkah Obstacle Course Adventure Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2025-12-26-23-34-02-he Story Transcript:He: ביום קר של חורף, השדה של מחנה האימונים היה מלא בשלג קל, מכוסה קישוטים של חנוכה.En: On a cold winter day, the field of the machane ha'imunim was covered in a light snow, decorated with Hanukkah ornaments.He: נעם עמד ליד מסלול המכשולים עם מבט רציני בעיניים.En: Noam stood by the obstacle course with a serious look in his eyes.He: "היום נלמד איך לעבור את המסלול בלי תקלות," אמר.En: "Today we'll learn how to get through the course without any mishaps," he said.He: תמר, לצדו, חייכה בעדינות.En: Tamar, beside him, smiled gently.He: היא אהבה לראות את החיילים החדשים מנסים לעשות כל דבר עם חיוך גדול על הפנים.En: She loved watching the new soldiers try everything with big smiles on their faces.He: "נעם, אולי נכניס קצת כיף?En: "Noam, maybe we could add a bit of fun?"He: " הציעה תמר, מקווה להכניס קצת חיים לשגרה.En: Tamar suggested, hoping to bring some life to the routine.He: החיילים מצידם, נראו כבר מוכנים לשבור את המשמעת.En: The soldiers, on their part, seemed ready to break the discipline.He: בכל פעם שנעם הסביר איך לעבור את הקרש המאונך או הקפיצה מעל הבורות, אחד מהחיילים היה מחליק ומפיל את כולם לצחוק מתגלגל.En: Every time Noam explained how to get over the vertical plank or the jump over the pits, one of the soldiers would slip, sending everyone into a fit of laughter.He: נעם ניסה לשמור על רצינות.En: Noam tried to maintain seriousness.He: הוא המציא חוקים חדשים, "אסור להחליק על הבור!En: He invented new rules, "No slipping on the pit!"He: " הכריז, אבל התוצאה הייתה הפוכה.En: he announced, but the result was the opposite.He: כל ניסיון להקשיח את הכללים רק גרם לעוד יותר החלקות וצחוק.En: Every attempt to tighten the rules only led to more slipping and laughter.He: תמר, שלא הפסיקה לחייך, הציעה דרך אחרת, "בואו נעשה תחרות, המנצחים יקבלו סופגניות.En: Tamar, who hadn't stopped smiling, suggested another way, "Let's have a competition; the winners will get sufganiyot."He: " האווירה השתנתה מיד.En: The atmosphere immediately changed.He: החיילים החלו להתאמץ, אך מי שהחליק, קיבל סופגניה כפרס על הבידור שסיפק.En: The soldiers began to put in effort, but anyone who slipped received a sufganiya as a reward for the entertainment they provided.He: ואז קרה הרגע שכל המחנה חיכה לו.En: Then the moment everyone in the camp had been waiting for happened.He: נעם עצמו החליק על סופגניה שנראתה תמימה בעלת פני שלג, ונחת ישר לתוך ערמת לביבות שזה עתה טוגנו.En: Noam himself slipped on a sufganiya that looked innocently like a snow face and landed straight into a heap of freshly fried levivot.He: החיילים פרצו בצחוק חזק יותר מתמיד, וגם נעם לא יכול היה להתאפק ולפתוח בצחוק.En: The soldiers burst into louder laughter than ever, and even Noam couldn't hold back, joining in the laughter.He: לבסוף, נעם הבין שמשהו חשוב קרה.En: Finally, Noam realized something important had happened.He: לפעמים, הצחוק הוא כלי האימון הטוב ביותר.En: Sometimes, laughter is the best training tool.He: "אולי כדאי שנרגיש את רוח החג," הוא אמר בחיוך רחב.En: "Maybe we should embrace the holiday spirit," he said with a broad smile.He: תמר והחיילים הפכו את יום האימונים ליום חג חנוכה.En: Tamar and the soldiers turned the training day into a Hanukkah celebration.He: בזמן שהסופגניות הוגשו והלביבות התקררו, הם רצו יחד במסלול, והצחוק לא חדל.En: As the sufganiyot were served and the levivot cooled, they ran through the course together, and the laughter didn't stop.He: כך, בין נפילה קלילה אחת לשנייה, הבין נעם שהמשמעת והלימוד באים גם בצחוק, ותמר הבינה שהיא יכולה לשלב כיף וערך יחד.En: Thus, between one lighthearted fall and another, Noam realized that discipline and learning also come with laughter, and Tamar understood she could combine fun and value together.He: נס החנוכה כבר היה כאן, לא רק במבחן, אלא גם בלב של כולם.En: The ness Hanukkah was already there, not just in the test, but also in everyone's hearts. Vocabulary Words:ornaments: קישוטיםmishaps: תקלותobstacle: מכשוליםvertical: מאונךpits: בורותseriousness: רצינותatmosphere: אווירהcompetition: תחרותreward: פרסentertainment: בידורinnocently: תמימהcelebration: חגdiscipline: משמעתembrace: להרגישspirits: רוחheap: ערמהcool: להתקררrealized: הביןattempt: ניסיוןtraining: אימוןlighthearted: קלילהcombine: לשלבeffort: להתאמץlaughter: צחוקtogether: יחדslipping: להחליקbroad: רחבtighten: להקשיחserved: הוגשוvalue: ערךBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Snow, Sparks, and Synchronicity: A Hanukkah Tale of Triumph Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2025-12-26-08-38-20-he Story Transcript:He: בעיצומו של חורף קר, הרקיע נמתח כתכלת עמוקה מעל מחנה האימונים למיחזור.En: In the midst of a cold winter, the sky stretched like a deep techelet above the recycling training camp.He: מסביב חנו עצים חסרי עלים, ובעקבות כל נשימה ששרקו את רוחם הקלה, הצטופפו פתיתים עדינים של שלג על האדמה.En: Around, leafless trees stood, and with each breath that the gentle wind whistled, delicate snowflakes crowded on the ground.He: הנרות בחנוכייה עמדו זקופים ומבהיקים, פזורים באורם על המחנה.En: The candles in the Hanukkiah stood upright and gleaming, scattering their light over the camp.He: תליה עמדה בצד האוהל שלה, מתבוננת בקור המקפיא.En: Talia stood beside her tent, gazing into the freezing cold.He: "אני צריכה להיות מוכנה", לחשה לעצמה.En: "I need to be prepared," she whispered to herself.He: הנה החנוכה, והיא נאבקת בין הרצון לשבת בחמימות החג לבין הצורך להתאמן לקראת המסע לשרוד בטבע.En: Here's Hanukkah, and she's torn between the desire to sit in the warmth of the holiday and the need to train for the survival journey in nature.He: תליה הייתה הרפתקנית בנשמתה, אבל החרדה בנוגע לכישוריה לא נתנה לה מנוח.En: Talia was adventurous by nature, yet the anxiety about her skills gave her no rest.He: איתן, לעומתה, התהלך בביטחון.En: Eitan, on the other hand, walked around confidently.He: "אין מה לדאוג, תלי," הוא אמר לה לעיתים קרובות.En: "There's nothing to worry about, Tali," he often told her.He: ככל ששמע את הקול הפנימי שלו, כך השתכנע שידע הכל.En: The more he listened to his inner voice, the more convinced he became that he knew everything.He: אבל תליה ידעה שהוא לא תמיד צודק, ונשארה ביקורתית על יכולותיו.En: But Talia knew he wasn't always right, and she remained critical of his abilities.He: בכל ערב, אחרי המפגש הקבוע עם הנרות והסופגניות, תליה החליטה להישאר בחוץ, הרחק מאור המדורה.En: Every evening, after the regular meeting with the candles and sufganiyot, Talia decided to stay outside, away from the campfire's light.He: היא תרגלה בשקט, מנסה להבעיר אש בלי גפרורים, אוחזת בענפי עץ קרים ומתאמצת כאילו היער כולו צופה.En: She practiced quietly, trying to kindle a fire without matches, holding onto cold tree branches and exerting herself as if the entire forest was watching.He: איתן ראה אותה וידע שהיא במאבק פנימי.En: Eitan saw her and knew she was struggling internally.He: באחד הלילות פנה אליה.En: One night he approached her.He: "בא נעשה את זה יחד," הוא הציע, בתחילה בחוסר רצון אך לבסוף בכוונה אמיתית לעזור.En: "Let's do it together," he offered, initially reluctantly but eventually with genuine intention to help.He: ברגע השיא של המחנה, איתן ותליה עמדו במרכז כולם, במבחן מול המדורה המדומה.En: At the climax of the camp, Eitan and Talia stood in front of everyone, facing a test at the mock campfire.He: עם חוט וחלוקי אבן, הם נדרשו להבעיר אש.En: With a string and pebbles, they were required to ignite a fire.He: המבט של איתן היה בוחן, אולי מעט לוחץ, אבל לא היה בו כעס.En: Eitan's gaze was scrutinizing, perhaps a little pressuring, but it was not angry.He: תליה הפתיעה את כולם באמתחת נאמנה ושלווה.En: Talia surprised everyone with her earnest and calm demeanor.He: היא מצאה את הקצב הנכון, התחממות הולכת וגוברת, האבן שהתחממה בתנועותיה המדודות.En: She found the right rhythm, an increasing warmth, the stone heating up with her measured movements.He: לפתע, ההבזק הראשון הופיע והלהבה ניצתה בגאווה קלה.En: Suddenly, the first spark appeared, and the flame ignited with a slight pride.He: בתשואות השאר, איתן חייך לה לראשונה בערכה מוחלטת.En: Amidst the cheers of the others, Eitan smiled at her for the first time with absolute appreciation.He: בסוף היום, הגאווה בערה בלב תליה, יותר מכל מדורה שנעשתה.En: By the end of the day, pride burned within Talia's heart, more than any campfire ever could.He: היא הבינה שאף אחד לא נמצא לבד, ואפילו העזרה הקטנה ביותר יכולה להיות ההחלטה הטובה ביותר.En: She realized that no one is truly alone, and even the smallest help can be the best decision.He: איתן למד גם הוא לשתף פעולה ולהכיר בערכו של כל פרט.En: Eitan also learned to collaborate and recognize the value of every detail.He: תחת אורם של הנרות, מעט לפני כיבוי המדורה והחזרה לקור החורף, תליה הרגישה בטוחה, והייתה מוכנה לכל מה שיבוא.En: Under the light of the candles, just before extinguishing the campfire and returning to the winter cold, Talia felt confident and ready for whatever would come. Vocabulary Words:midst: בעיצומוtechelet: תכלתgleaming: מבהיקיםscattering: פזוריםadventurous: הרפתקניתanxiety: חרדהscrutinizing: בוחןdemeanor: אמתחתrhythm: קצבignite: להבעירappreciation: ערכהcollaborate: לשתף פעולהextinguishing: כיבויsurvival: לשרודmock: מדומהgazing: מתבוננתexerting: מתאמצתreluctantly: בחוסר רצוןgenuine: אמיתיתspark: ההבזקcrowded: הצטופפוleafless: חסרי עליםwhispered: לחשהupright: זקופיםearnest: נאמןinternally: מאבק פנימיmeasured: מדודותrhythm: קצבpebbles: חלוקי אבןappreciation: ערכה מוחלטתBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

Parashat Mi-ketz [Genesis 41:1-44::17] is the second parashah in the extended Joseph saga, which stretches over 4 parashiyot, taking us to the end of Genesis in two weeks. This year, it coincides with Rosh Hodesh and Hanukkah, an occurrence which happens with some frequency. In 1991, this triple Torah header took place on the 50th anniversary of Pearl Harbor, and my senior sermon. It allowed me to begin by noting this was the Jewish version of Torah Torah Torah. I spoke then of the butler's confession, et hatta'i ani mazkir ha-yom, My sins I mention today. The midrash pays attention to the plural, sins, noting that the butler sinned against Pharaoh, which caused him to be sent to jail, and he sinned against Joseph by letting him languish in jail after promising to mention him at the end of last week's parashah. It occurred to me only recently that the butler had in mind his sin against Joseph does not make a great deal sense; what is the value of a public confession when the person sinned against is not even present. Rather, I now think, the butler recognized that his sins against Pharaoh were more numerous than he previously acknowledged. We often see ourselves as more sinned against than sinning, more deserving of being forgiven than forgiving those who have wronged us. In this reading, the butler is more worthy of praise because he is taking on more responsibility, rather than less. Our conversation focused on the character of Joseph, in someways the quintessential diaspora Jew, yearning to be at home and never quite fitting in. He is also one of the more fully drawn characters in the Bible, and his portrait is quite complex. We hope you enjoy it! We continue to keep in mind the one hostage whose body has yet to be returned, may he be returned speedily to his family. We also have in mind the soldiers defending Israel as members of the Israel Defense Forces. Shabbat Shalom. Hodesh Tov. Hag Urim Same'ah.

On Christmas Day (and on any day), you're invited into a loving, spacious meditation that helps you nurture peace within yourself—and gently share that peace outward. This practice is for everyone, whether you celebrate Christmas or not. It's a universal moment to pause, breathe, and remember that peace is not something we wait for the world to give us; it's something we can cultivate inside, then carry into our relationships, our homes, and the spaces we move through. You'll be guided to soften the body, settle the mind, and return to a calm inner center. From there, you'll begin to expand—offering quiet well-wishes to the people you love, the people you worry about, and even the people you find difficult. Not as a forced positivity, but as a sincere, grounded intention: may peace touch your life; may you feel supported; may you be well. Let this meditation be a gentle gift you give yourself first—so what you offer others is real, steady, and nourishing. This is day 5 of a 7-day meditation series, "Awaken to Joy Celebration Meditations," episodes 1297-1303. ABOUT THIS WEEK'S MEDITATION JOURNEY: As the year gently comes to a close, this special episode of Awaken to Joy Celebration Meditations invites you into a sacred pause. Between this week's celebrations of Christmas and Hanukkah, and any other spiritual celebrations, light and love are celebrated in different ways—but the invitation is the same: to slow down, reflect, and soften into gratitude. This special bonus episode of Awaken to Joy is part of a meditation series I recorded a few years ago—created not for a moment in time, but for moments like this. As the year draws to a close and the light of celebration fills the season, I wanted to offer this meditation as a gift of gratitude to you, my listeners. These reflections are timeless by design—an invitation to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with peace, gratitude, and inner light. Whether you're celebrating, resting, or simply needing a pause, this meditation is my way of saying thank you for being here. May it bring you calm, comfort, and gentle joy as one year ends and another begins. ✨ With deep gratitude, ✨ A moment of stillness, just for you ✨ A new beginning softly forming. YOUR WEEKLY CHALLENGE: "The Unconditional Joy Challenge" This week, your mission is to share unconditional joy with 3 people daily: someone you know a stranger and someone who is difficult in your life (you've got this) THIS WEEK'S MEDITATION JOURNEY  Day 1:  Embracing Joy Visualization Day 2:  Affirmation: "I awaken my inner joy." Day 3:  Breathing: Inhale Joy - Exhale Light Day 4:  Heart mudra for inner joy Day 5:  Third Chakra to connect to your passions Day 6:  Awaken to Joy Flow meditation, combining the week's techniques Day 7:  Weekly review meditation and closure SHARE YOUR MEDITATION JOURNEY WITH YOUR FELLOW MEDITATORS Let's connect and inspire each other! Please share a little about how meditation has helped you by reaching out to me at Mary@SipandOm.com or better yet -- direct message me on https://www.instagram.com/sip.and.om. We'd love to hear about your meditation ritual!  WAYS TO SUPPORT THE DAILY MEDITATION PODCAST SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss a single episode. Consistency is the KEY to a successful meditation ritual. SHARE the podcast with someone who could use a little extra support. I'd be honored if you left me a podcast review. If you do, please email me at Mary@sipandom.com and let me know a little about yourself and how meditation has helped you. I'd love to share your journey to inspire fellow meditators on the podcast! All meditations are created by Mary Meckley and are her original content. Please request permission to use any of Mary's content by sending an email to Mary@sipandom.com. FOR DAILY EXTRA SUPPORT OUTSIDE THE PODCAST Each day's meditation techniques are shared at: sip.and.om Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sip.and.om/ sip and om Facebook https://www.facebook.com/SipandOm/ SIP AND OM MEDITATION APP Looking for a little more support? If you're ready for a more in-depth meditation experience, allow Mary to guide you in daily 30-minute guided meditations on the Sip and Om meditation app. Give it a whirl for 7-days free! Receive access to 2,000+ 30-minute guided meditations customized around a weekly theme to help you manage emotions. Receive a Clarity Journal and a Slow Down Guide customized for each weekly theme.  2-Week's Free Access on iOS https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/sip-and-om/id1216664612?platform=iphone&preserveScrollPosition=true#platform/iphone All meditations are created by Mary Meckley and are her original content. Please request permission to use any of Mary's content by sending an email to Mary@sipandom.com.Let go of repetitive negative thoughts. The beach waves were composed by Mike Koenig. Music composed by Christopher Lloyd Clark licensed by RoyaltyFreeMusic.com, and also by musician Greg Keller.

Black Christmas (2006) | Updating a classic for the Saw eraOn Christmas Eve, an escaped maniac returns to his childhood home, which is now a sorority house, and begins to murder the sorority sisters one by one.If there's one thing I'm not nostalgic for, it's the extreme horror trend of the 2000'sspoilers begin at 13:51ghostbeast.comcheck our Youtube and for video contentsupport us at ghostbeast.bigcartel.com and merchyeah.com/ghostbeastcontact us at podcast@ghostbeast.comWant to hear your story on Susto? Fill out the Letters From the Beyond form or visit SustoPodcast.com to be shared on the show!Become a Patron here! Subscribe to Susto's YouTube channel!

Join The Land of Israel Fellowship and gain access to all the Bible teachings from Judea and receive your personal invitation to join the exclusive live online gatherings with families around the world every week. The Land of Israel Fellowship go to: https://thelandofisrael.com/membership-tiers/ Session #74: Parsha Vayeishev

What are your thoughts on the efficacy of strontium for bone health?What to you think of HRT for bone health?I have aortic valve stenosis. Is there any alternative to surgery?I have dry eyes after cataract surgeryAre there any benefits to Deer Antler for increasing HGH?

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A CPR tradition turns 10 this year. The Colorado Matters Holiday Extravaganza returns with bluegrass, mariachi, comedy and storytime. And as always, we pay homage to Judy Garland. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or simply value togetherness, this audio gift is for you! 

In this deeply moving Mussar Masterclass (Day 109), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe concludes the Gate of Remembrance in Orchos Tzaddikim with the final three remembrances, dedicating the session to the speedy recovery of his newborn preemie grandson (Tinoch ben Mi'ira bat Zahava) in the Jerusalem NICU. He urges listeners to pray Psalms and dedicate Torah study as merit for the baby and mother.The 28th remembrance: Treat everything—soul, spouse, children, possessions—as an outright gift to Hashem, fully dedicated to His service. Accept all decrees with love, trusting Hashem completely, earning immense reward even without trials.The 29th: Internal value trumps external—beauty, wealth, or status mean nothing without inner holiness, Torah, and spirituality. Avoid superficiality; invest in wisdom and purity over fleeting externals.The 30th (final): This world is a foreign land; we arrive as strangers sustained solely by Hashem's miracle. Like a vulnerable immigrant under a king's protection, humble yourself, abandon pride, and exert every effort to serve the King (Hashem) faithfully, knowing He alone controls life, success, and exit—without intermediaries.Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes constant awareness of divine control (illustrated by recent missile miracles near Tel Aviv airport), rejecting "happenstance" (mikre = only from Hashem), and prioritizing spiritual investment over materialism. The episode ends with profound gratitude for life's fragility and Hashem's constant presence.Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on May 5, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on December 25, 2025_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Remembrance, #Dedication, #Internal, #Holiness, #Divine, #Miracles ★ Support this podcast ★

2025 Christmas AlbumIntro - 0:00Natty Babe (Kokomo) - 1:08Lockin Up My Backdoor - 3:42The Way You Sucked Tonight - 6:57One Last Cock p1 - 10:11I'll Let You Down - 13:03Guinness Poops - 15:42Build Me Up (War Eagle) - 17:41One Last Cock p2 - 20:04UC, LA - 22:48These Refs - 25:27Fired - 29:00The Wreck of the Ol' Auburn Tigers - 30:38I'm Gonna Run (500 Options) - 34:34Dominick the Donkey - 38:10

In this deeply moving Mussar Masterclass (Day 109), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe concludes the Gate of Remembrance in Orchos Tzaddikim with the final three remembrances, dedicating the session to the speedy recovery of his newborn preemie grandson (Tinoch ben Mi'ira bat Zahava) in the Jerusalem NICU. He urges listeners to pray Psalms and dedicate Torah study as merit for the baby and mother.The 28th remembrance: Treat everything—soul, spouse, children, possessions—as an outright gift to Hashem, fully dedicated to His service. Accept all decrees with love, trusting Hashem completely, earning immense reward even without trials.The 29th: Internal value trumps external—beauty, wealth, or status mean nothing without inner holiness, Torah, and spirituality. Avoid superficiality; invest in wisdom and purity over fleeting externals.The 30th (final): This world is a foreign land; we arrive as strangers sustained solely by Hashem's miracle. Like a vulnerable immigrant under a king's protection, humble yourself, abandon pride, and exert every effort to serve the King (Hashem) faithfully, knowing He alone controls life, success, and exit—without intermediaries.Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes constant awareness of divine control (illustrated by recent missile miracles near Tel Aviv airport), rejecting "happenstance" (mikre = only from Hashem), and prioritizing spiritual investment over materialism. The episode ends with profound gratitude for life's fragility and Hashem's constant presence.Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on May 5, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on December 25, 2025_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Remembrance, #Dedication, #Internal, #Holiness, #Divine, #Miracles ★ Support this podcast ★

As we age, we come to appreciate the holiday traditions of our youth. Ricky Mullins (University of Virginia at Wise) remembers receiving treat bags at his small, backroads church. The poke bags were stuffed oranges, peanuts, cracker jacks and sometimes even a chocolate bar. Now, he's passing the tradition along to the youth at the church that he pastors. And: Mary Lou Williams was a renowned jazz pianist and composer. She brought sacred Black jazz music to Duke University's chapel every year. Gayle Murchison (William and Mary) shares some of Williams' music with us. Later in the show: How Ryan Stouffer (Longwood University) learned the value of fellowshipping over food from his dad's rib spot. Plus: Mary Beth Matthews (Mary Washington) walks us through how the American traditions of Hanukkah and Christmas have changed over the years.

Proverbs 27:20-22 Getting bored, God's investing in you, how to influence people, Jewish identity and Chanukah Insights

Alex, Randy, Beck, and Tyler discuss Hanukkah gift-giving strategies; holiday road trips to the snow, in order of escalating insanity; and a highly charged movie debate.This last subject becomes a jumping-off point for an extended talk about movie-adjacent cars; lamenting and besmirching; Plymouth wood paneling connoisseurship; ghosts of American car brands past; drift missiles; stalker Eagles; and generational Jeep headlight trauma. becomes a jumping-off point for an extended talk about movie-adjacent cars; lamenting and besmirching; Plymouth wood paneling connoisseurship; ghosts of American car brands past; drift missiles; stalker Eagles; and generational Jeep headlight trauma.Links for things mentioned in this episode:5:47  The Breakfast Club Rally7:36  Toyota Pickup model page10:55  1968 Ford Mustang Fastback 4-Speed Bullitt Tribute15:53  1967 Shelby Mustang GT500 Fastback17:05  1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse GSX Coupe 5-Speed sold for $17,25017:15 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse Coupe GSX 5-Speed  sold for $63,00019:19  Mitsubishi Eclipse, Eagle Talon, & Plymouth Laser model page20:26 6k-Mile 1992 Plymouth Laser RS Turbo AWD 5-Speed sold for $11,00023:17  1950 Buick Super Estate Wagon23:33  Volkswagen Jetta model page23:51  25-Years-Owned 1997 Volkswagen Jetta GLX VR6 5-Speed sold for $10,99924:20  1997 Volkswagen Golf Trek Edition 5-Speed w/Bicycle25:55  Nissan R33 Skyline model page27:22  Nissan 240SX model page29:29 Toyota Supra A80 (1993-2002) model page30:27  1948 Packard Super Eight Victoria Convertible sold for $35,00033:13  6k-Mile 1992 Toyota Pickup XtraCab SR5 V6 4×4 5-Speed sold for $54,00035:30  Volkswagen-Powered Death Race 2000 “Monster” Re-Creation sold for $15,66636:11  Carter Brothers Mini Monster Jeep Go-Kart w/Velociraptor sold for $6,10037:38  36k-Mile 1995 Jeep Wrangler Sahara 4.0 sold for $17,75040:46  1972 Grumman AA-1A Trainer41:00  Aircraft category page41:18  The Grumman LLV Has Finally Reached The End Of Its Mail Delivery Days — Revelations w/ Jason CammisaGot suggestions for our next guest from the BaT community, One Year Garage episode, or (B)aT the Movies subject? Let us know in the comments below!

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Stars and Strangers: A Desert Bond Under a New Sky Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2025-12-25-08-38-20-he Story Transcript:He: עוד לפני שמאורות הערב ירדו, אריאל פיסל את דרכו דרך המדבר הנגב.En: Before the lights of the evening descended, Ariel carved his way through the Negev Desert.He: צלם טבע, הוא חיפש את הצילום המושלם של שמי הלילה.En: A nature photographer, he was searching for the perfect shot of the night sky.He: היה חורף וקר, אך אור המדורות חימם את הזירה.En: It was winter and cold, but the light of the campfires warmed the scene.He: תמר ישבה עם הקבוצה.En: Tamar sat with the group.He: היא מורה, בחופש חורף, ומחפשת השראה.En: She is a teacher, on winter break, seeking inspiration.He: היא הגיעה למדבר בתקווה למצוא את השקט שהיא כה חיפשה.En: She came to the desert hoping to find the quiet she had been searching for.He: המדריך, נועם, היה נלהב.En: The guide, Noam, was enthusiastic.He: הוא סיפר על האסטרולוגיה וההיסטוריה של הכוכבים.En: He spoke about astrology and the history of the stars.He: השמיים היו מעוננים.En: The skies were cloudy.He: אריאל התאכזב, ואולי גם קצת העצב של החג חלחל בו.En: Ariel was disappointed, and perhaps the holiday sadness seeped into him a bit.He: חנוכה הגיע.En: Hanukkah had arrived.He: שמונה נרות דולקים, ולמרות האור, חש לבד.En: Eight candles were burning, and despite the light, he felt alone.He: תמר הבחינה בו.En: Tamar noticed him.He: היא עצמה הרגישה קצת בודדה, מחפשת חיבור שבעיר הגדולה לא מצאה.En: She herself felt a bit lonely, seeking a connection she couldn't find in the big city.He: הקבוצה הקשיבה לנועם, מדברת בקולות שקטים סביב המדורה.En: The group listened to Noam, speaking in soft voices around the campfire.He: פתאום, אריאל התקרב לתמר.En: Suddenly, Ariel approached Tamar.He: "בואי נעזוב את הקבוצה," הציע.En: "Let's leave the group," he suggested.He: תמר הססה לרגע, אך הוקסמה מהרעיון.En: Tamar hesitated for a moment but was enchanted by the idea.He: הם יצאו לחפש נקודת תצפית טובה יותר, רחוקים מהקבוצה והרעש.En: They went out to find a better vantage point, far from the group and the noise.He: הלכו יחד, בשקט, רק צעדי הנעליים על החול.En: They walked together, quietly, just the steps of their shoes on the sand.He: פתאום, העננים נסוגו, והשמיים התמלאו בכוכבים נוצצים.En: Suddenly, the clouds retreated, and the sky filled with sparkling stars.He: אריאל שלף את מצלמתו.En: Ariel pulled out his camera.He: הצילום היה מושלם.En: The shot was perfect.He: תמר הסתכלה לשמיים, חשה בערנות חדשה, ובחיבור הולך ונבנה ביניהם.En: Tamar looked at the sky, feeling a new alertness, and a connection growing between them.He: כשחזרו להתיישב עם הקבוצה, החליטו לשמור על הקשר החדש ביניהם בסוד.En: When they returned to sit with the group, they decided to keep their new connection a secret.He: ידעו שאין טעם להיחפז.En: They knew there was no point in rushing.He: לפני שנפרדו, אריאל העניק לתמר צילום של רגע הכוכבים, כסמל לזיכרון הלילה.En: Before they parted, Ariel gave Tamar a photograph of the starry moment, as a symbol of the night's memory.He: דרך החוויה הזאת, אריאל למד את הערך של לחלוק רגעים ולעיתים להיפתח לחברויות חדשות.En: Through this experience, Ariel learned the value of sharing moments and sometimes opening up to new friendships.He: תמר מצאה את ההשראה שחיפשה, וגילתה יופי בעולם וגם במערכת היחסים הנבנית בינה לבין אריאל.En: Tamar found the inspiration she was looking for and discovered beauty in the world and in the relationship building between her and Ariel.He: הרגש היה כמו אור הנרות של חנוכה, מחמם את הלב ומאיר מעל לכל ספק.En: The feeling was like the light of the Hanukkah candles, warming the heart and illuminating beyond any doubt.He: כשהכוכבים קרצו בשמי הלילה מעליהם, ידעו ששנתם תחלוף בקרוב, אבל החלום החדש רק מתחיל.En: As the stars twinkled in the night sky above them, they knew their year would soon pass, but the new dream was just beginning. Vocabulary Words:carved: פיסלvantage: נקודת תצפיתsparkling: נוצציםalertness: ערנותconnection: חיבורilluminating: מאירseeped: חלחלenchanted: הוקסמהapproached: התקרבhesitated: הססהtwinkled: קרצוtwinkled: קרצוparted: נפרדוsymbol: סמלcampfire: מדורהretreated: נסוגוsparkling: נוצציםinspiration: השראהenthusiastic: נלהבastrology: אסטרולוגיהdoubt: ספקcandles: נרותquiet: שקטsolitary: בודדwarmed: חימםlandscape: זירהseagull: שחףnarrative: סיפורholiday: חגascended: עלהBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: A Hanukkah Love Story: Finding the Perfect Gift in Yerushalayim Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2025-12-25-23-34-02-he Story Transcript:He: ברחובות המרוצפים של ירושלים, האורות החגיגיים של חנוכה זהרו מכל פינה.En: On the cobblestone streets of Yerushalayim, the festive lights of Hanukkah glowed from every corner.He: האוויר היה צונן והנרות דלקו בחלונות הבתים.En: The air was chilly, and candles burned in the windows of the houses.He: מראה החג התפשט בכל מקום, ושירים שמחים נשמעו מכל עבר.En: The holiday spirit spread everywhere, and cheerful songs were heard from all around.He: בתוך הקהל ההומה, צעד אליאב, מחפש מתנה מיוחדת לתמר.En: Amidst the bustling crowd, Eliyav walked, searching for a special gift for Tamar.He: הוא ידע עד כמה חשוב לו להראות לה כמה היא משמעותית בעיניו.En: He knew how important it was for him to show her how much she meant to him.He: תמר עמדה לצידו, חייכנית ונרגשת.En: Tamar stood by his side, smiling and excited.He: היא אהבה את האווירה החגיגית ואת כל התככנות המקושטים.En: She loved the festive atmosphere and all the decorated stalls.He: מאחוריהם, מטען, החבר הכי טוב של אליאב, היה שם כדי לתמוך ולעזור להם לבחור.En: Behind them, Mat'an, Eliyav's best friend, was there to support and help them choose.He: השלושה נכנסו לשוק הומה אדם.En: The three entered a bustling market.He: אורות צבעוניים וסמטאות צרות של העיר העתיקה הקיפו אותם.En: Colorful lights and narrow alleyways of the Old City surrounded them.He: חנויות מלאות חנוכיות, סביבונים, וממתקים צוהלים שדמויות של חנוכה עוטרו עליהם.En: Shops were full of chanukiot, dreidels, and cheerful candies adorned with Hanukkah figures.He: אליאב חיפש בעיניים את המתנה המושלמת, אך היה המום מכמות האפשרויות והאנשים.En: Eliyav searched with his eyes for the perfect gift but was overwhelmed by the number of options and people.He: "אני חייב למצוא משהו מיוחד," לחש אליאב למטען.En: "I must find something special," Eliyav whispered to Mat'an.He: "מה דעתך על תכשיט?En: "What do you think about jewelry?"He: " הציע מטען.En: suggested Mat'an.He: אליאב הניד בראשו.En: Eliyav shook his head.He: "אני רוצה משהו שונה, משהו שיגיד לה עד כמה אני אוהב אותה.En: "I want something different, something that will tell her how much I love her."He: "השעה התקדמה והחנויות החלו להיסגר לאט לאט.En: Time was advancing, and the shops began to close slowly.He: הם עברו בין הדוכנים הצבעוניים, תרים אחר הפתרון.En: They passed between the colorful stalls, searching for the solution.He: פתאום, בקצה סמטה שקטה, הבחינו בשלושה בחנות קטנה של אומן.En: Suddenly, at the end of a quiet alley, the three noticed a small artisan shop.He: הדלת העץ חורקה כשהם פתחו אותה.En: The wooden door creaked as they opened it.He: בפנים היו חנוכיות יפות עשויות עבודת יד.En: Inside were beautiful handmade chanukiot.He: אחת מהן הייתה מיוחדת במיוחד - חנוכיה בעלי קווים עדינים ויופי ייחודי שמשך את עין אליאב.En: One of them was particularly special - a chanukiah with delicate lines and unique beauty that caught Eliyav's eye.He: משהו בה הקרין את הרוח החופשית והמיוחדת של תמר.En: Something about it radiated Tamar's free and special spirit.He: הוא חייך לעצמו, יודע שזו המתנה שתמר חיכתה לה.En: He smiled to himself, knowing this was the gift Tamar had been waiting for.He: בלילה, לאחר חזרתם למלון הצופה על העיר המוארת, העניק אליאב את החנוכיה לתמר ברגע שקט ומיוחד.En: That night, after returning to the hotel overlooking the illuminated city, Eliyav gave the chanukiah to Tamar in a quiet and special moment.He: היא הביטה בתדהמה ובהתרגשות במתנה היפה שהחזיקה בידיה.En: She gazed in amazement and excitement at the beautiful gift she held in her hands.He: עיניה הבריקו ברוך, והיא נשקה לו בחום.En: Her eyes shone softly, and she kissed him warmly.He: "זו המחשבה שהכי חשובה," אמרה ברכות, "והמחשבה שלך היא הכי טובה שיש.En: "It's the thought that counts the most," she said gently, "and your thought is the best there is."He: "באותו הרגע, הבין אליאב שהמאמץ והאהבה שהשקיע היו חשובים יותר מכל מתנה חומרית.En: At that moment, Eliyav realized that the effort and love he invested were more important than any material gift.He: ערב חנוכה ובוקר חדש בירושלים.En: An erev Hanukkah and a new morning in Yerushalayim. Vocabulary Words:cobblestone: מרוצפיםfestive: חגיגייםglowed: זהרוchilly: צונןcandles: נרותburned: דלקוcheerful: שמחamidst: בתוךbustling: הומהcrowd: קהלstalls: דוכניםnarrow: צרותalleyways: סמטאותoverwhelmed: המוםsuggested: הציעartisan: אומןcreaked: חורקהdelicate: עדיניםradiated: הקריןspirit: רוחgazed: הביטהamazement: תדהמהexcitement: התרגשותshone: הבריקוeffort: מאמץmaterial: חומריתilluminated: מוארתchanukiot: חנוכיותdreidels: סביבוניםcandies: ממתקיםBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

The Australian state of New South Wales has passed gun control laws ten days after the Hanukkah attack in which 15 people were killed. There are also strict limits on how many firearms people can have and the police will have more powers to ban demonstrations. Also: four Palestine Action prisoners in Britain continue a prolonged hunger strike; Libya's army chief, General Muhammad Ali Ahmad al-Haddad, is killed in a plane crash shortly after take-off from the Turkish capital of Ankara; in Egypt, specialists are restoring a nearly 4,000 year old ceremonial boat from the reign of the Pharaoh Khufu; and a theatre company in Rome trains actors with psychiatric problems and learning disabilities to perform classic Italian plays.The Global News Podcast brings you the breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight. Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Follow or subscribe now and never miss a moment. Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.ukImage credit: Dean Lewins EPA Shutterstock

What's best Holiday Decoration? WE GOT THIS.

For the holidays, we're re-running some of our very favorite holiday-themed episodes! It's hard not to feel like we've got to be doing ALL the things at the holidays, especially when social media tells us we should be. Here are some tips for taking perspective at the holidays and operating in "high magic, low effort" mode. We discuss: pre-gaming with your (older) kids about the preferred responses to less-preferred gifts starting with what family members really do love most about the holidays (their answers will surprise you) why you don't have to go the Nutcracker, or lights at the zoo, or Aunt Martha's house, this year, let alone every year Rosie Colosi for Today Parents: ⁠⁠Moms are challenging the idea that they are the sole keepers of holiday ‘magic'⁠⁠ SNL's "Christmas Morning" sketch: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FOVCtUdaMCU⁠ ⁠Read all of our listeners' great advice on the original Facebook thread⁠... and here, as promised, is Amy's recipe for the⁠ Italian pepper cookies⁠ that seem to be unique to northeast Pennsylvania... Italian Pepper Cookies (makes about 72 cookies, more if they're small) 1/2 cup Crisco  2 cups of milk or water (or more if needed) If dough is really sticky you can add a little bit more of milk 1/2 lb. raisins  1 cup cocoa 2 1/2 cups sugar 4 tbsp. baking powder 7 cups of flour (add more if needed) 1 1/2 tsps. cinnamon 1 1/2 tsps. cloves (not whole) 1 1/2 tsp. vanilla 1 1/2 tsps. black pepper (if you don't want them too spicy, you can cut back on the pepper, I never do though) Optional, you can add nuts or I've seen people add chocolate chips too. We aren't big nut eaters, so I've never made them with nuts. Preheat oven to 375 Cream sugar and Crisco together in a bowl  In a different bowl, sift together all the dry ingredients. Add sifted dry ingredients to creamed sugar and Crisco alternately with milk. Mix well. It will be very sticky, it's easier to work with your hands. I usually coat my hands with some Pam to be able to work the dough. Add your raisins and mix it up more.  Using your hands, take enough dough to roll a small ball (my mom likes them big, I like them smaller) Place cookie balls on your cookie trays (I usually fit around 16 on a tray, all depends on the size of your cookie balls)  Bake in oven for 8-10 minutes. Icing: 2 cups confectioner's sugar 1 to 2 tablespoons milk 1/2 teaspoon butter splash vanilla For icing: Mix together all ingredients, adding milk until achieving creamy consistency, not stiff. When cookies are slightly cooled, top with icing. Sign up for the What Fresh Hell newsletter! Once a month you'll get our favorite recent episodes, plus links to other things to read and watch and listen to, and upcoming special events: ⁠http://eepurl.com/h8ze3z⁠ We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on our website: ⁠https://www.whatfreshhellpodcast.com/p/promo-codes/⁠ Get 50% Off Monarch Money, the all-in-one financial tool at ⁠www.monarchmoney.com/FRESH Ready to raise money-smart kids? Start now with your first month FREE at acornsearly.com/FRESH! What Fresh Hell is co-hosted by Margaret Ables and Amy Wilson. Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Santa, Elf on the Shelf, gift exchange, holiday, holiday shopping, holiday gifts, mom friends, funny moms, parenting advice, parenting experts, parenting tips, mothers, families, parenting skills, parenting strategies, parenting styles, busy moms, self-help for moms, manage kid's behavior, teenager, toddler, holiday recipes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Day 4 invites you into a longer, restorative meditation on peace—the quiet strength that softens the heart without asking you to ignore reality. When the world feels heavy, peace becomes a way to stay human: present, discerning, and still open. You are offered preparation to create a personal Peace Retreat for yourself.  Whether you celebrate Christmas Eve or not, this is a universal meditation for peace. You'll be guided to settle your breath, soften the body, and release the mental noise that pulls you away from the present. From that steady inner stillness, you'll practice offering peace to the world in a grounded, sincere way—without forcing positivity, and without needing anything to be perfect. In this practice, you'll be gently guided to release the tightness that can build from disappointment, frustration, or fatigue, and to reconnect with the part of you that still believes in goodness. Through calming breath and heartfelt reflection, you'll explore how peace can restore faith in humanity—not by pretending everything is perfect, but by remembering that peace still exists, and you can be a source of it too. You'll offer peace inward first—creating safety and steadiness within—then gradually extend it outward, allowing your heart to reopen in a wise, grounded way. You'll leave this meditation feeling clearer, softer, and more connected, with an inner reminder that peace is both protection and power. Come as you are. Let this be a pause. A reset. A return to what matters. This is day 4 of a 7-day meditation series, "Awaken to Joy Celebration Meditations," episodes 1297-1303. ABOUT THIS WEEK'S MEDITATION JOURNEY: As the year gently comes to a close, this special episode of Awaken to Joy Celebration Meditations invites you into a sacred pause. Between this week's celebrations of Christmas and Hanukkah, and any other spiritual celebrations, light and love are celebrated in different ways—but the invitation is the same: to slow down, reflect, and soften into gratitude. This special bonus episode of Awaken to Joy is part of a meditation series I recorded a few years ago—created not for a moment in time, but for moments like this. As the year draws to a close and the light of celebration fills the season, I wanted to offer this meditation as a gift of gratitude to you, my listeners. These reflections are timeless by design—an invitation to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with peace, gratitude, and inner light. Whether you're celebrating, resting, or simply needing a pause, this meditation is my way of saying thank you for being here. May it bring you calm, comfort, and gentle joy as one year ends and another begins. ✨ With deep gratitude, ✨ A moment of stillness, just for you ✨ A new beginning softly forming. YOUR WEEKLY CHALLENGE: "The Unconditional Joy Challenge" This week, your mission is to share unconditional joy with 3 people daily: someone you know a stranger and someone who is difficult in your life (you've got this) THIS WEEK'S MEDITATION JOURNEY  Day 1:  Embracing Joy Visualization Day 2:  Affirmation: "I awaken my inner joy." Day 3:  Breathing: Inhale Joy - Exhale Light Day 4:  Heart mudra for inner joy Day 5:  Third Chakra to connect to your passions Day 6:  Awaken to Joy Flow meditation, combining the week's techniques Day 7:  Weekly review meditation and closure SHARE YOUR MEDITATION JOURNEY WITH YOUR FELLOW MEDITATORS Let's connect and inspire each other! Please share a little about how meditation has helped you by reaching out to me at Mary@SipandOm.com or better yet -- direct message me on https://www.instagram.com/sip.and.om. We'd love to hear about your meditation ritual!  WAYS TO SUPPORT THE DAILY MEDITATION PODCAST SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss a single episode. Consistency is the KEY to a successful meditation ritual. SHARE the podcast with someone who could use a little extra support. I'd be honored if you left me a podcast review. If you do, please email me at Mary@sipandom.com and let me know a little about yourself and how meditation has helped you. I'd love to share your journey to inspire fellow meditators on the podcast! All meditations are created by Mary Meckley and are her original content. Please request permission to use any of Mary's content by sending an email to Mary@sipandom.com. FOR DAILY EXTRA SUPPORT OUTSIDE THE PODCAST Each day's meditation techniques are shared at: sip.and.om Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sip.and.om/ sip and om Facebook https://www.facebook.com/SipandOm/ SIP AND OM MEDITATION APP Looking for a little more support? If you're ready for a more in-depth meditation experience, allow Mary to guide you in daily 30-minute guided meditations on the Sip and Om meditation app. Give it a whirl for 7-days free! Receive access to 2,000+ 30-minute guided meditations customized around a weekly theme to help you manage emotions. Receive a Clarity Journal and a Slow Down Guide customized for each weekly theme.  2-Week's Free Access on iOS https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/sip-and-om/id1216664612?platform=iphone&preserveScrollPosition=true#platform/iphone All meditations are created by Mary Meckley and are her original content. Please request permission to use any of Mary's content by sending an email to Mary@sipandom.com.Let go of repetitive negative thoughts. The beach waves were composed by Mike Koenig. Music composed by Christopher Lloyd Clark licensed by RoyaltyFreeMusic.com, and also by musician Greg Keller.

Eight nights of Hanukkah can feel like a marathon, especially when kids are away at college, packages arrive late, and the to-do list keeps growing. In this candid Whinypaluza Wednesday episode, Rebecca Greene and Seth Greene discuss what it really looks like to be in the Hanukkah weeds and why that feeling shows up every year. Rebecca shares the behind-the-scenes reality of wrapping presents nightly, juggling work, missing her son, and realizing how much her priorities have shifted. This conversation is about letting go of perfection, choosing presence over presents, and reminding ourselves that it all gets done in the end. Key Takeaways - Presence matters more than presents. - Being together outweighs any gift. - Eight nights is a lot. - Hanukkah comes with its own pressure. - Perfection is not required. - Good enough really is good enough. - Exhaustion makes everything more complicated. - Sleep changes perspective.Moms often do too much because they care. That comes from love, not failure. It always gets done. Even when it feels chaotic. Memorable Quote “I'm in the weeds, but I don't really care. I've got better priorities.” Continue the Conversation Visit whinypaluza.com to read Rebecca's blog and past reflections. Join the Whinypaluza Mom Group on Facebook for support and community. Subscribe to the Whinypaluza email newsletter for real-life parenting insights. https://linktr.ee/whinypaluzamom If you are in the weeds too, take a breath. You are doing more than enough. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

All photos and videos to accompany this episode are on our substack! Askajew.substack.comIn this episode we cover the events of last week, from the horrific murders in Sydney, to Ben Shapiro at TPUSA, to - of course - Mandy Patinkin.In case you missed it, Ben Shapiro took to the stage last week at Turning Points USA's AmericaFest, and in front of 30,000 people, for 30 glorious minutes, tore into all the haters. And yes, he named names. I was wondering in the episode what the reaction was in the room to Ben's speech, or rather - how many of these kids are actually buying into the Candace/Tucker nonsense? This week I got my answer, when Blake Neff, Charlie Kirk's producer, posted the results of a straw poll of the attendees (most were under 30 years old btw).Well, well, well. Would you look at that. Almost 87%, wait, let me spell that out - EIGHTY SEVEN PERCENT, view Israel as either a top ally or one ally of many. Only 13.3% don't view Israel as an ally at all. This is not to say the online poison spewed by many of these straight-up antisemitic f*******s isn't real. But perhaps, after all, the kids are alright. You see, the problem with all these people as I explain is that they went full retard, aka full antisemite. They could have gotten away with it if they just harped on about the manufactured famine or the USS Liberty, maybe even the dancing Israelis conspiracy theory would have gone over smoothly with people who enjoy alternative facts and dance recitals. But they went full batshit, mossad-tried-to-kill-me, Israel-made-me-pay-for-sex-with-girls, Brigitte-Macron-is-a-man, Jewish-bees-are-trying-to-kill-me, crazy. And they are losing. Take some free advice from a PR person - stick to the acceptable antisemitism of lying about Israel and parroting Hamas talking points. It's worked for the left.Ok, enough about politics. In this episode we also cover:* Our response to Sydney - don't cancel any events. Show up stronger. Here is the Weest Village Chabad event on the first night of Hanukah. It was packed, joyful, and freezing. That's how we roll.* How low or high is the bar to be a good Jews? Chaya Leah thinks you need to celebrate a holiday that isn't in the top 5 and not wear wool and linen together, Yael thinks you just need to listen to this podcast (and would and Instagram story or two kill you?)* A wonderful Shabbat Dinner in Long Beach ful of listeners and love.* You can't scream people into being on your side.* A beautiful sermon to an empty room:* Hanukkah movie recommendation!UPDATE: I watched this movie. It is not good. Watch the Alicia Silverstone one instead.Never a bad time to remind you that all your favorite Christmas songs were written by Jews. How do we know? A few years ago we had a Rabbi on who talked to us about the Jewish roots of many Christmas songs. It's a story of immigration, love and hope. You should definitely listen, and yes - there's a Spotify playlist. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit askajew.substack.com/subscribe

Hanukkah is over, but we still have plenty to say about candles, miracles, and commemorating atrocities. We offer our respective reviews of 2025, and Cori talks more about his joylessness, depression, and identifying with “victim groups.” Nina reports progress on her SSDI Blue Book playing card illustrations, including a transgender Jack (“LadyJack”) and Queen Prostate Cancer. Is Down Syndrome progressive? Does Cori “feel Jewish” yet? What should we watch on TV? Do we have any listeners left? Whatever the question, the answer is increasingly: GO BILLS!Links:True Blue Lou sung by Annette Hanshaw:Bondi Beach Hanukkah massacre: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cqjg22rey0loChuck Schumer: Go Bills!Rob Reiner murder: https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/celebrities/2025/12/23/rob-reiner-wife-michele-death-certificates-memorial-service/87899544007/The 12 Days of Christmas: https://www.almanac.com/what-are-12-days-christmasSF Hillel arson: https://sfdistrictattorney.org/man-charged-with-arson-in-connection-to-fire-at-san-francisco-hillel/Jewish men attacked on NYC subwayCori's pic on X in front of a giant menorah:Nina's 2025 Year In review: https://ninapaley.com/2025/12/19/my-2025-year-in-review/Nina's SSDI Blue Book illustrations - Queens: https://spinster.xyz/@ninapaley/posts/B1W5HfREevhkTfdyt6& Jacks: https://spinster.xyz/@ninapaley/posts/B1HQIvEmaTyLQwrNJIPluribus: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt22202452/House of Lies: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1797404/?ref_=fn_t_1Severance: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11280740/?ref_=fn_t_1Naked Gun: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3402138/?ref_=fn_t_1PHQ9: https://share.google/PO5J3OAtPMRCLGKVJ Get full access to Heterodorx Podcast at heterodorx.substack.com/subscribe

Why do you think people of faith celebrate the most joyful holidays during the darkest time of the year? The Jewish people just did, having finished their annual Hanukkah festivities, celebrating the Festival of Lights.This isn't not a coincidence. We celebrate light during this dark time of year because only against that backdrop of darkness can we truly appreciate light.In this special holiday episode, host Yael Eckstein looks at this season during which we remember miracles that happened in Bible times, as well as miracles that are still happening today! As we'll learn in this powerful episode, no matter how dark things may be, we can still find the light.Listen now!And learn more about the holidays that God's people will celebrate in the year to come.

Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah from Joey Diaz and Lee Syatt! Joey and Lee talk about the power of memories, Joey's beef with Dave Portnoy, why Joey decided the typical 9-5 wasn't the life he wanted and much more! SHOW NOTES Get 15% off your first Bioma order with code JOEY at https://gobioma.com/church Get 10% off your first month of BlueChew Gold w/ code JOEY @ http://BlueChew.com/ Download the DraftKings Pick6 app now & press in code JOEY @ https://www.draftkings.com/mobileapps

On a night meant for celebration and light, terror erupted at a beach in Sydney, Australia during the first night of the Jewish holiday, Hanukkah. What should have been a safe, public gathering became a scene of chaos and unimaginable loss. Fifteen people were killed, and many more were injured.Tonight, we hear firsthand from two families who lived through that nightmare. Lissy, a mother who was forced to run for her life while protecting her young daughter, and Rabbi Yosef, whose 14 year old daughter survived the attack while others around her did not.Through their stories, we confront the human cost of hatred, the trauma of survival, and the resilience it takes to move forward after unspeakable violence. As Hanukkah continues, we reflect on loss, courage, and the enduring search for light in the darkest moments.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Topics: keeping tags on clothes, dinner with Uncle Beau, don't tell a woman to calm down, Andrew's Hanukkah gifts, unsolicited plastic surgery advice, secondhand smoker teeth, teaching Brenna Hanukkah songs, pits and peaks of 2025, our feelings on skiing, how to pronounce Ian Ziering, feelings on eggnogSponsorsQuince: Go to Quince.com/taylor for free shipping on your order and 365-day returnVital Vitamins: Vital Vitamins is offering my listeners 20% of all orders with code TAYLOR at myvitalvitamins.comBobbie: If you want to feel good about what's in your baby's bottle, get 10% off with code taylor at hibobbie.comJoyrise: Joyrise.com code TAYLOR for 15% off plus free shippingHers: Go to forhers.com/taylorRockey Money: Join at RocketMoney.com/taylorSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“This year very few Hanukkah candles were lit.” / “This is a strange Christmas Eve.” This is the story of 1941's wartime holiday season.  It's difficult to conjure up a more miserable picture than the Warsaw Ghetto, but Jewish residents are doing their best to stay close to their faith in spite of the dismal circumstances. In a sermon that draws parallels between this hungry, fearful group and the Maccabees of old, Rabbi Kalonymus Kalman Shapira will bring a little light to these dark times.  Meanwhile, Christmas in the U.S. comes just as the country is shifting into gear for war with Japan and Germany. President Roosevelt projects confidence and hope at the annual White House Christmas tree lighting, and he's even brought along a special guest… (a much better orator than Santa).  Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukah, and happy holidays to all.  ____ Connect with us on HTDSpodcast.com and go deep into episode bibliographies and book recommendations join discussions in our Facebook community get news and discounts from The HTDS Gazette  come see a live show get HTDS merch or become an HTDS premium member for bonus episodes and other perks. HTDS is part of Audacy media network.Interested in advertising on the History That Doesn't Suck? Contact Audacyinc.com To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dive into the uproarious final day of Hanukkah as Opie turns super chats into Ron Berman's holiday windfall, complete with Opie's secret matching twist. From savage football rivalries and absurd building tip rants to juicy throwbacks on radio legends like Jim Norton, this episode delivers non-stop witty banter. Tune in for the irreverent laughs that will recharge your holiday spirit and inspire your own epic gifting rebellions.