One Reform Mom

One Reform Mom Nurse, PhD student, happy and ever-learning reform
Jewish mom, just striving every day to make a positive impact in our world

✨”Why do I sometimes hear Shabbat Shalom and sometimes good Shabbos?” 🫶 Hello, wonderful One Reform Mom community💕! I re...
08/26/2025

✨”Why do I sometimes hear Shabbat Shalom and sometimes good Shabbos?” 🫶 Hello, wonderful One Reform Mom community💕! I recently received this great question from a follower—please keep those coming 🫶!—asking about the difference between "Good Shabbos" and "Shabbat Shalom." Let's dive into the fascinating world of Yiddish and Hebrew to uncover the story behind these greetings.
📜Yiddish Origins:
• Yiddish is a High German-derived language historically spoken by Ashkenazi Jews. It originated around the 9th century among Jewish communities in Central and Eastern Europe.
• Yiddish combines elements of Germanic languages with Hebrew and Aramaic, and has absorbed words from Slavic languages, reflecting the diverse cultural interactions of Jewish communities.
☮️The Greetings:
• Good Shabbos: This phrase is Yiddish, combining the English word "Good" with "Shabbos," the Yiddish word for the Sabbath. It’s commonly used among Ashkenazi Jews, especially those with roots in Eastern Europe.
• Shabbat Shalom: This greeting is in Hebrew, meaning "Sabbath of Peace." It's used widely in Israel and among Jewish communities worldwide, emphasizing a peaceful and restful Shabbat.
Both greetings carry the same warm intention of wishing a restorative and joyful Sabbath. The choice between them often reflects cultural heritage, linguistic preference, or familial tradition.
✨Cultural Significance:
• Yiddish played a crucial role in the daily lives, literature, and cultural expression of Ashkenazi Jews, and its influence continues today.
• Understanding these greetings helps us appreciate the diversity within Jewish traditions and the rich tapestry of languages that have shaped Jewish communal life.
Whether you say "Good Shabbos" or "Shabbat Shalom," both convey a heartfelt wish for a peaceful and meaningful Shabbat, connecting us to a shared history and community. 🌍✨
I would love to hear your thoughts and questions…happy Tuesday to all 🫶!

✨Hello, wonderful One Reform Mom community 🫶! I've so missed connecting with all of you these past few days while moving...
08/23/2025

✨Hello, wonderful One Reform Mom community 🫶! I've so missed connecting with all of you these past few days while moving my daughter into college and gearing up for the new school year back here at home. It's a busy yet exciting time, and through it all, I'm reminded of how much I value and love our vibrant community 💕.

In Reform Judaism, community is at the heart of our spiritual and daily lives, serving as a source of connection, support, and shared purpose for everyone, regardless of background or faith.

📜Torah Insights📜
- **Leviticus 19:18**: "Love your neighbor as yourself." This universal principle encourages empathy and connection, urging us to build strong, compassionate communities.
- **Exodus 19:6**: "You shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation." This calls for collective responsibility and shared values.

📖Talmudic Teachings:📖
- **Pirkei Avot 1:2**: "The world stands on three things: the Torah, service, and acts of loving-kindness." Acts of kindness often find expression in our community, reflecting our commitment to each other and a shared mission of making the world a better place.

🫶Community in Action🫶
- In Reform Judaism, inclusivity and diversity are embraced, creating a welcoming space for all.
- Our community gathers for prayer, study, celebrations, support, and social justice efforts, embodying our values and collective spirit.

This page is a reflection of these principles—a community where we connect, learn, and grow together. I've truly missed our interactions and am thrilled to be back in this shared space. Let's continue to nurture the strength and warmth of our community. 🌟

✨”The Siddur made me wonder, what is a reform service like?” Thank you for asking…let’s talk about it!✨🫶🌟 Exploring Refo...
08/17/2025

✨”The Siddur made me wonder, what is a reform service like?” Thank you for asking…let’s talk about it!✨🫶

🌟 Exploring Reform Synagogue Services: What to Expect 🌟
Are you curious about what happens during a Reform synagogue service? Whether you’re planning to attend for the first time or simply interested in learning more, here’s a glimpse into what you can expect!
What is a Reform Synagogue?
Reform Judaism emphasizes individual autonomy, inclusivity, and the evolution of Jewish traditions to fit modern life. Services are designed to be accessible, welcoming, and meaningful for all attendees.
Key Elements of a Reform Service:
😊Warm Welcome:
Expect a friendly atmosphere where congregants and visitors are greeted warmly. The community is often diverse, reflecting a range of backgrounds and life experiences.
☮️Inclusive Worship:
Services typically include a mix of Hebrew and English prayers, making them accessible regardless of your Hebrew proficiency. Prayer books often provide translations and transliterations.
🎼Music and Song:
Music plays a significant role, with communal singing and sometimes instrumental accompaniment. You might hear traditional melodies alongside contemporary tunes.
📜Torah Reading:
The Torah is read, often followed by a sermon or discussion led by the rabbi. These teachings aim to connect ancient texts with modern-day life and values.
👋🏽Participation:
Congregants are encouraged to actively participate, whether it’s through singing, reading, or sharing personal reflections. This creates a dynamic and engaging experience.
🫶Community Connection:
After the service, there’s usually an opportunity for socializing during the Oneg Shabbat (a gathering with refreshments), fostering a sense of community and connection.
✨Unique Features:
Reform services might celebrate inclusivity through egalitarian practices, such as welcoming LGBTQ+ members, interfaith families, and varying levels of observance.
🕊️Why Attend?
Attending a Reform synagogue service can be a spiritually enriching experience, allowing you to connect with Jewish traditions in a modern context. Whether you’re seeking spiritual growth, community, or just curious, you’ll find a welcoming space to explore your Jewish identity.
Have more questions about Reform Judaism or synagogue services? I would love to hear them in the comments 🫶!

✨”What’s a siddur??” As I close out Shabbat and greet the new week, what better time to dive into this question? Shavua ...
08/16/2025

✨”What’s a siddur??” As I close out Shabbat and greet the new week, what better time to dive into this question? Shavua Tov—good week—to all who observe…and to everyone and humankind as a whole 💕🫶!
📜 Discovering the Siddur: The Heartbeat of Jewish Prayer 📜
Curious about Jewish traditions and the role of prayer in Jewish life? Let's explore the fascinating world of the siddur! ✨
The siddur, meaning "order" in Hebrew, is a Jewish prayer book that provides a structured guide for daily and communal worship. It includes prayers for various occasions, from weekdays to Shabbat and holidays.
✨A Brief History:
The origins of the siddur trace back to ancient times, evolving over centuries as Jewish communities spread around the world. The first comprehensive siddur is credited to Rabbi Amram Gaon in the 9th century. Since then, different Jewish denominations have developed their own versions, reflecting diverse customs and traditions.
😊Fun Facts About the Siddur:
• Diversity in Unity: Despite variations, all siddurim share a core structure, representing the unity of Jewish tradition across different cultures.
• Incorporation of Poetry: Many include piyyutim, or liturgical poems, enriching the spiritual experience.
• Customary Tunes: Prayers are often accompanied by melodies unique to each community, adding an auditory dimension to worship.
🕊️The Siddur in Reform Judaism:
In Reform Judaism, the siddur is seen as a dynamic document that evolves with modern values. Reform siddurim often use contemporary language and inclusive theology, making the prayers accessible and meaningful for everyone. They encourage personal connection and spiritual exploration while maintaining ties to tradition.
📖How It's Used:
Whether in a synagogue or at home, the siddur serves as a gateway for both structured prayer and personal reflection. Many Reform communities offer translations and transliterations to deepen understanding, inviting both Jewish and non-Jewish participants to engage with the text.
The siddur is more than just a book; it's a tapestry of shared history, beliefs, and hopes. Whether you're familiar with it or discovering it for the first time, how does this glimpse into the siddur inspire or intrigue you? I look forward to hearing your thoughts in the comments! ✨🫶

08/11/2025

✨How are Son and Daughter Day and Judaism related? As a very proud mom 😊 of three daughters and a son 💓💓💓💓, I especially love sharing about this topic. Tune in and join me 🫶!

08/10/2025

✨”So what’s the Jewish take on Jesus? Respectfully wondering.”✨ Tune in for a quick dive into answering this question! Thank you for asking this...and to everyone here for being part of this page and learning community 💕. Please keep sharing vour thoughts and questions...I so appreciate them, and each of you! ✨🫶

✨ HAPPY TU B’AV, wonderful friends near and far 🫶! What’s Tu B’Av, you ask? Read on for a quick primer 💕.🌕 Celebrating L...
08/09/2025

✨ HAPPY TU B’AV, wonderful friends near and far 🫶!
What’s Tu B’Av, you ask? Read on for a quick primer 💕.
🌕 Celebrating Love and Unity: The Joyous Holiday of Tu B'Av 🌕💞 (for 2025, occurring sundown August 8-nightfall August 9)✨
🕊️What is Tu B'Av?
Tu B'Av, often dubbed the "Jewish Day of Love," is a lesser-known yet joyfully celebrated holiday in Judaism. Falling on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Av, it marks a time of love, unity, and new beginnings.
📖Historical Background:
Historically, Tu B'Av was a day when the young women of Jerusalem would dress in white and dance in the vineyards, hoping to find a match. The day originally celebrated several events of reconciliation and joy, such as the end of the biblical prohibition against inter-tribal marriage and the lifting of barriers that prevented members of different tribes from marrying.
🕊️The Spirit of Tu B'Av:
Tu B'Av is about more than just romantic love; it is a time to embrace friendships, community, and the bonds that connect us all. It encourages reflection on relationships and the values of acceptance and harmony.
😊Fun Facts:
• Tu B'Av is often compared to Valentine's Day, due to its focus on love and relationships.
• The holiday’s name, Tu B'Av, comes from the Hebrew letters "Tet" and "Vav," which numerically represent the number 15.
Celebrations Across Movements:
• In Orthodox communities, Tu B'Av can be a day for singles to meet potential partners through community events.
• Reform and Conservative Jews might celebrate with communal gatherings, discussions on the nature of love, or even renewal of wedding vows for married couples.
• Modern Israeli celebrations often include singing, dancing, and cultural events, emphasizing joy and togetherness.
❤️For Singles and Couples:
For singles, Tu B'Av is a time to embrace self-love and openness to new relationships. For couples, it serves as a moment to reflect on and strengthen their bond, celebrating the love they share.
✨Universal Message:
While rooted in Jewish tradition, the themes of Tu B'Av—love, unity, and community—are universal, inviting everyone to celebrate the connections that enrich our lives.
Whether you're single or in a relationship, Tu B'Av is a beautiful opportunity to celebrate love in all its forms, fostering a spirit of joy and unity. Embrace the day with an open heart and let love guide you 🫶!

✨”What’s a Kiddush cup?”✨ Great question…and erev Shabbat (almost Shabbat) is an extra-appropriate time to dive into thi...
08/08/2025

✨”What’s a Kiddush cup?”✨ Great question…and erev Shabbat (almost Shabbat) is an extra-appropriate time to dive into this topic!🫶
🌟🍷 The Symbolic Beauty of the Kiddush Cup 🍷🌟
A Kiddush cup is a special goblet used in Jewish rituals to bless wine or grape juice. It plays a central role in the celebration of Shabbat and other Jewish holidays, symbolizing sanctification and joy.
🕊️Historical Background:
The tradition of using a dedicated vessel for Kiddush dates back centuries. The word "Kiddush" comes from the Hebrew word "Kadosh," meaning holy, and the ritual itself involves reciting a blessing over wine to sanctify the Shabbat or holiday. The use of a cup adds a tangible, ceremonial element to this spiritual act.
🍷Purpose and Use:
During Shabbat, the Kiddush cup is used to recite the Kiddush prayer, marking the beginning of the holy day. This prayer not only sanctifies the day but also serves as a reminder of the creation of the world and the Exodus from Egypt. The wine or grape juice is then shared among those present, symbolizing unity and blessing.
✨Fun Facts:
• Kiddush cups can be made from various materials, including silver, glass, and ceramic, often decorated with intricate designs or Hebrew inscriptions.
• Some families have Kiddush cups passed down through generations, adding personal historical significance.
• The cup is typically filled to the brim, symbolizing an overflowing of blessings and abundance.
🫶Why the Kiddush Cup is Special:
The use of the Kiddush cup transforms the ordinary act of drinking wine into a sacred moment. It invites reflection and gratitude, setting the tone for a peaceful and spiritually enriching Shabbat.
Whether it's a family heirloom or a newly crafted piece, the Kiddush cup continues to be a cherished symbol in Jewish homes, connecting past traditions with present celebration.
Shabbat Shalom to all who observe, and a very happy Friday evening, friends 🫶!

08/07/2025

✨In a world with diverse voices, let's choose kindness and understanding over hate. This space is about uplifting each other, embracing differences, and fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and respected. Together, we can create a community built on love and positivity. ✨Join the conversation, spread kindness, and let’s make a difference, one positive comment at a time! 🌟💬🫶

08/06/2025

✨”Maybe weird question, but are there things in your beliefs that inspire you at work?”✨ —Not weird at all 💕, and thank you for asking! Tune in as we dive in to this question. How do your personal values impact your work life? I would love to hear your experiences and thoughts!🫶

✨”How does someone become Noahide?”✨This follow-up question rolled in after my video answering a question about follower...
08/05/2025

✨”How does someone become Noahide?”✨
This follow-up question rolled in after my video answering a question about followers of Noah…sometimes called Noahide Jews, though this is a bit of a misnomer. (Check out the video to find out why 😉.) Read on for a quick look at what it means to become Noahide ✨.
✨Understanding the Path of a Noahide: A Journey of Righteousness 🌟
Have you ever wondered about the path of becoming a Noahide? 🤔 It's a beautiful journey rooted in the ancient wisdom of the Seven Laws of Noah, which offers a moral compass for all humanity, not just those who are Jewish.
🫶Who are the Noahides?
Noahides are individuals who choose to live by the Seven Laws of Noah, a universal set of ethical guidelines given to Noah after the Flood. This path is open to everyone and is not about converting to Judaism.
The Seven Laws of Noah:
1. Do not engage in idol worship.
2. Do not commit murder.
3. Do not steal.
4. Do not commit sexual immorality.
5. Do not blaspheme.
6. Do not eat the flesh of a living animal.
7. Establish courts of justice.
✨Becoming a Noahide:
Unlike converting to Judaism, becoming a Noahide does not require a formal conversion process or going before a Beit Din (rabbinical court). It's a personal commitment to uphold these universal laws and strive for a righteous life. However, some choose to make a formal declaration to follow the laws of Noah before a Beit Din, which can be a meaningful step for those who desire it.
✨Embracing the Noahide Path:
Being Noahide means living a life of integrity and kindness, contributing to a world of justice and peace. It's about embracing these principles in one’s daily life and becoming a beacon of light within one’s community.
Whether you're purely curious or considering this path, remember: it's not about—nor is it in any way—converting to Judaism. Instead, being a follower of Noah is about connecting with timeless values that unite all of humanity. 🌍
Have more questions? Drop them in the comments, and let's continue our enlightening conversations! 💬👇 🫶

08/04/2025

✨Curious about fasting in Jewish traditions? 🤔 Join me as I dive into when, why, and how Jewish people fast! 🙏✨

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