Eretz HaKodesh was founded in 2020 and secured 20,000 votes in that election cycle, channeling vital resources of approximately $100 million to protect our Torah values in Eretz Yisroel and support hundreds of yeshivos, seminaries, and frum organizations.
In this 2025 election cycle, competition from woke left and liberal opposition has intensified as they witness our advancement of Torah principles. Eretz HaKodesh aims to secure 100,000 votes to sustain and expand these efforts.
A weekly glimpse into the Israel you won’t read about in the news
By Sivan Rahav Meir
Parashat Pekudei: Blessing Our Efforts
— May God’s Shechinah (spirit) rest upon you.
This is one of the most beautiful brachot one can possibly receive. The Jewish people invested so much time and effort in the building of the Mishkan, the spiritual center that accompanied them in the desert. They donated precious metals and jewelry, worked with diligence and dedication, and in this week’s parashah, Pekudei, the work is finally completed.
Rashi explains that Moshe Rabbeinu blesses the people with these words: “May it be God’s will that the Shechinah rest upon your handiwork.”
This magnificent brachah encapsulates a multi-layer message: You have not just built a beautiful building. You have built a sanctuary that will represent the highest values and be filled the presence of God. I bless you that you should see the noble value of your physical labor— how every shekel, nail, and drop of sweat has created a holy edifice and that your efforts should bring brachah, light, and redemption to the world.
We too are called upon to direct our efforts in this world towards a higher purpose. May the Shechinah rest upon us and crown our efforts with success.
Parking on the Path
There are times when everything seems stuck. We live
in a competitive, achievementoriented, and fast-paced world, and we can’t always keep up. Sometimes we pull over to the side, feeling outside of the race.
The last pasuk of this week’s parashah summarizing the journeys of the people in the desert, concludes: “In the sight of all the house of Israel, throughout all their journeys.” And Rashi comments on this: “Their place of encampment –it too is called a journey.”
This is a powerful message for life. When Bnei Yisrael moved forward is obviously a journey, but also the encampments, those times when God told them to stop and stand still – even those waiting times are part of the journey. Even then, we learn, progress, and develop.
Our commentators explain that each time anew, precisely because of that encampment, they gained more strength for the next journey.
If it seems like everyone else is
getting married, advancing in their careers and achieving things while we are “parked,” we shouldn’t treat this period as a waste of time. It too is a chapter in our journey. Even during these times, we develop and learn, perhaps in a more internal and hidden way. In such times, it’s worth reminding ourselves: “Their place of encampment – it too is called a journey.”
A Legacy of Unity
Vaya’as is a word that recurs in the last few Torah portions. The Jewish people are asked to act, to contribute, to build the Mishkan.
We also have an example of “Vaya’as” among us now: This week, I spoke with high school student Eitan Cohen. His principal was Yossi Herschkowitz, who was killed while fighting in Gaza on Nov. 10, 2023. Just before the Oct. 7 massacre, Yossi had left them a mission.
“Following the conflict surrounding Yom Kippur tefillot in Tel Aviv, Yossi was devastated,” Eitan shared. “He wanted to transform the shock into action and decided on the spot that he would write a sefer Torah for the elevation of the soul of someone secular, someone who was seemingly ‘from the other side.’ He approached the family of Chen Amir, a commando killed in an attack in Tel Aviv, and informed them that he would be donating a sefer Torah to them. He also told his wife Hadas and several other people that they needed to start collecting bottles, hundreds of
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thousands of bottles for recycling, to raise money for this cause.”
The students heard about Yossi’s initiative during the mourning period and began collecting bottles. They also took on several other projects to raise the funds and together reached the required sum – about NIS 70,000. The sefer Torah is not new; it was damaged in the Holocaust and has now been restored.
The students were amazed to discover where Chen Amir lived: Kibbutz Re’im. Yossi had contacted the family even before Simchat Torah, but afterward, the kibbutz became a symbol.
“This week, we heard sounds of strife that almost took us back to that Yom Kippur,” they told me. “And precisely this week, we sent invitations for the festive hachnasat sefer Torah to be held next week. The souls of Yossi, Chen, and all of us are connected. There is nothing like a sefer Torah scroll from the Holocaust that will now be dedicated to Kibbutz Re’im to remind us of this.”
A Message From Beyond
I recently attended a lecture by Iris Haim, mother of Yotam who was held hostage in Gaza and accidentally killed by IDF fire. The main thing about this meeting wasn’t the lecture, but what happened afterwards. A long line of people stood to receive a hug from Iris, which was perhaps more important than her words spoken on stage.
Yotam’s phone had recently been discovered in the kibbutz where he lived. Iris found many notes that Yotam wrote to himself.
She chose to share the following:
“We do not know what the person next to us is going through, and even one wrong look can break a
person (believe me, I know). And on the other hand, asking ‘How do you feel?’ can make a person’s day. Be alert, it’s important.”
Addressing the crowd, Iris said, “From where he is, Yotam continues to pass these messages of his to us.”
Yotam wrote these things in a different reality. Today we are required to be even more sensitive, and the media and political agenda are far from there. May we succeed in fulfilling his insightful words.
Want to read more by Sivan Rahav Meir?
Google The Daily Thought or visit sivanrahavmeir.com
Translated by Yehoshua Siskin, Janine Muller Sherr
Connecting the Dots of Care
At the heart of the Florida Chesed Network is a community of kindness, bringing the abundant resources of our community’s incredible chesed organizations together. Whether it’s food, support, mental health care, or guidance, from dot to dot, we connect the right people to the right services, bridging the gaps and creating solutions where there are none, ensuring every family, regardless of their circumstances, is seen, heard, and supported.
From bills piling up to a table set with dignity.
From stress in the air to the aromas of Yom Tov cooking.
From an empty pantry to stocked shelves.
Pesach 5785:
From Stress to Simchas Yom Tov.
The Florida Chesed Network Pesach Promise:
This Pesach, join the Florida Chesed Network in connecting the dots— making sure every family in our communities has what they need for Yom Tov and the joy that comes along with it. Because everyone deserves it.
With your support, we can fill in the missing dots again this year.
“Pesach isn’t Pesach without the essentials that we need and the extras that make it memorable. Thanks to FCN, our family celebrated with true joy – even in a most challenging time.”
Is There a Pecking Order for Tzedakah?
By Leslie Srolovits
As Jews we know how important Tzedakah is. Kindness toward others is part of our DNA and the way we were raised by our parents. From an early age, I remember my father a’h always giving me a nickel or a dime to place in the pushkah of our shul. Now, more than ever, Jews around the world are making every effort to support our brothers and sisters in Eretz Yisroel. As we read every Shabbos by mincha - me kiamcha yisroel, who is like your people Israel. We all extend ourselves financially for Israel and pray with all our hearts for God to intervene on many levels.
Some of us are overwhelmed with supporting shuls, schools, charities of all kinds and our families, who sometimes need additional financial assistance. Logic has always told me that family comes first, but I often wonder if there is a rule (halocha) within our religion when it comes to
charity. To get a definitive answer, I reached out to my friend Sol, who is a much more learned person who learns Daf every morning at the Chabad shul that I attend daily. After speaking with Sol, I decided to dig deeper and ask more questions.
Aside from helping family, the poor of our own cities come first. The source for the principle that charity and assistance should start with the local community before extending help to others comes from the Talmud, Bava Metzia 71a, where it states: “The poor of your city take precedence. I also learned that this concept is also codified in Shulchan Aruch, Yoreh De’ah 251:3, which establishes the hierarchy of giving, prioritizing local needs before those of other communities. Additionally, the Rambam (Maimonides, Mishneh Torah, Laws of Gifts to the Poor 7:13) reinforces this by explaining that one should first support family members, then the poor of one’s city, and only afterward extend charity to those outside the community. Giving charity anonymously, with dignity and respect, is considered one of the highest forms of tzedakah (charity) because it preserves the honor of the recipient and prevents feelings of shame or embarrassment. When a person in need does not know the identity of the giver, and the giver does not know the recip-
ient, the act remains purely about helping, without personal recognition or social pressure.
In line with giving to a local charity, I came across a remarkable Rabbi that has devoted every breathing moment to helping more that 300 families within Southern Florida. Recently, I had the privilege to sit with Rabbi Yosef Raskin for over two hours, listening to how he started a charity and the type of assistance he provides families in need. Rabbi Raskin started JGifts.org, a remarkable charity that distributes gift cards to families in need, helps pay their bills, refers them to counseling if needed. As I spoke to the esteemed Rabbi it occurred to me that financial challenges within a family unit usually result in considerable friction between spouses. This is another aspect that JGifts.org assists with. Quite frankly, I couldn’t hold back tears listening to stories of families in Southern Florida living with the thought of how will I put food on the table for Shabbos or Yom Tov.
Now that I know the Jewish laws and the pecking order of Tzedakah, JGifts.org is a local community charity I really want to be a part of, especially as we approach Passover. We should all try our utmost to help make a poor families Passover nicer by making sure they have what they need for this upcoming Yom Tov.
Leslie Srolovits
for every Fit and size
Eli Sharabi Exposes Hamas Abuse at UN, Slams
Palestinian Envoy’s “War Crime” Accusations
Eli Sharabi stood before the United Nations Security Council not as a diplomat, but as a survivor. After 491 days of brutal captivity in Gaza, the 53-year-old Israeli shared a harrowing account of the torment he endured at the hands of Hamas—and issued a searing rebuke of the international community’s silence.
“I was fed a piece of pita a day. Maybe a sip of tea. Hunger consumed everything. They beat me. They broke my ribs,” Sharabi testified. “I just wanted a piece of bread.”
His voice, though calm, carried the weight of unimaginable pain. Sharabi detailed how Hamas fighters gorged themselves on international aid bearing UN and UNRWA logos, while he and fellow hostages were left to starve. “Hamas eats like kings while hostages starve. I saw Hamas terrorists carrying UN boxes into the tunnels. Dozens and dozens of them.”
The Security Council listened as Sharabi revealed how Hamas twisted humanitarian aid into a lifeline for terrorists, not civilians. The very organizations meant to bring relief had their logos paraded through underground tunnels, feeding the captors while their victims wasted away.
Yet what drew even sharper condemnation was the speech given by Palestinian UN envoy Riyad Mansour. Offering only a passing condolence to Sharabi, Mansour instead launched into accusations of Israeli war crimes, alleging genocide and displacement. He failed
to even mention the hostages still held in Gaza—a glaring omission that infuriated Sharabi and Israeli officials alike.
“He has lost both his shame and his humanity,” said Sharon Sharabi, Eli’s brother. “He talks about war crimes while the hostages are still suffering.”
Danny Danon, Israel’s ambassador to the UN, demanded accountability. “Since October 7, you’ve passed 77 resolutions. Not one condemns Hamas. Not one acknowledges the crimes committed against our people. Not one mentions the hostages.”
Eli Sharabi’s story is not just one of survival—it is an indictment. Of Hamas, for their unspeakable cruelty. Of UN institutions, for the exploitation of their aid. And of the international community, for its
deafening silence.
“For 491 days, I starved, I was chained, I begged for my humanity,” he said. “And no one came. No one in Gaza helped me. Civilians saw us. They knew. And they did nothing.”
Sharabi’s wife, Lianne, and daughters Yahel and Noiya were murdered on October 7 in Kibbutz Be’eri. He survived. Not to forget, but to bear witness.
“Bring them all home,” he told the Council. “No more excuses. No more delays. If you stand for humanity—prove it.”
His presence turned the UN floor into a courtroom of conscience. His words, a cry not only for justice, but for truth. As the world debates resolutions and ceasefires, Eli Sharabi stands as living proof of the price of indifference.
The Parent-Day School Partnership: An Essential 21st-Century Challenge and Opportunity
One of the opportunities facing parents today is their capacity to forge meaningful and lasting relationships with the faculty and administration of their children’s schools. Parent involvement and engagement in their children’s day school and yeshiva learning experiences have been shown to strongly influence and inspire student academic achievement, engagement, and motivation. To be sure, one of the best predictors of student success is the extent to which parents and families encourage learning at home and involve themselves in their children’s chinuch – whether it be Judaic or general studies. In addition to hands-on involvement in their children’s formal cognitive development in school, over the past many decades parents have assumed an impressive array of volunteer roles to enhance the impact and effectiveness of Jewish day schooling on students, the school, and the community at large. This demonstrates a growing number of parents and families who are inspired and motivated to
By Dr. Chaim Botwinick
engage in their children’s schools. It is the result of an amazing level of volunteer commitment and drive, inspired and motivated by a passion on the part of parents to support Jewish day school and yeshiva education in a very direct, tangible, meaningful, and personal fashion.
Some schools have excelled in forging the parent-school partnership, with an impressive cadre of parents who assume a wide variety of school-based roles as staff members and volunteers, while other schools still aspire to reach these levels of parental engagement with varying degrees of success. These disparities vary due in part to a variety of factors and variables such as parental availability and capability, proactive school leadership and culture, and whether the parent-school partnership is a priority for the school and the parents.
It’s important to understand that these “partnerships” never happen or exist in a vacuum. They require a very conscious and deliberate effort on the part of the school’s administration and faculty and an unswerving willingness and motivation on the part of parents. Parental engagement, collaboration, partnership, and involvement require a level of empowerment on the part of the school’s professional leadership. This means that the hanhala of the school, together with the school faculty, must view the role of parents as a critical component to the student’s learning, growth, and development.
I have seen a variety of out-
standing parent engagement and partnership initiatives, whether they be school-wide or classroom-based programs relating to the celebration of the completion of a tractate of Talmud, special chesed projects, science fairs or special teacher appreciation projects. They are all anchored in a serious and conscious effort. They require time, energy, thoughtful planning, and an unswerving willingness to devote an inordinate amount of focus to detail and measurable outcomes. Schools must create an inviting culture and a warm, respectful, and welcoming environment for parents so that they feel inspired and motivated to engage in a true partnership with the school. This is an undeniable reality. There are no shortcuts and no detours.
The Epstein Framework for Parent-School Engagement
Several years ago, I offered a series of seminars to Jewish day school and yeshiva senior educational administrators, as well as separate sessions for teachers and parents. The overall theme was “How Do We Create and Sustain Meaningful and Effective and Impactful Parent-School Partnerships in our Schools? The sessions focused on the Epstein Framework1 which is an engagement model, or framework, developed by Joyce Epstein from Johns Hopkins University. Essentially, it assists educators in developing school-family partnerships that are meaningful and sustainable, and which can
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overcome the stresses and strains of day-to-day challenges facing schools and parents.
The Epstein Framework for parent-school engagement is divided into six discrete yet interrelated domains. By dividing the parent-school partnership into these six domains, Jewish day schools and yeshivot can more easily compartmentalize how they engage and involve parents in the school’s education process. By compartmentalizing these activities and relationships, school leaders will be able to engage parents and present unlimited options geared to their interests, areas of expertise, skill sets, and availability.
They are:
1. Parenting - Helping all families establish home environments to support children as students. This helps families structure their schedules and physical environment with an awareness of the importance of school and the appropriate balance between family, free time, and scholastic responsibility.
2. Communicating – Using effective forms of school-to-home and home-to-school communications about school programs and children’s progress, allowing parents to support their children and giving teachers or school staff a window into understanding the whole child.
3. Volunteering – Recruiting and organizing parents to help and support their children and the school, allowing parents to be involved, helping them to understand what goes into running a classroom or school, and feeling welcome and valued in school.
4. Learning at home (homework) – Providing information to fam-
ilies about how to help students at home with homework and other school activities, allowing parents to support their children while balancing family time, and informing parents regarding the instructional program.
5. Decision-making (policy) - Including parents in school decisions and developing parent leaders, resulting in policies that are family-friendly and in line with the values and needs of the school’s families.
6. Collaboration and interaction with the school communityIdentifying and integrating resources and services from the community to strengthen school programs, family practices, and student learning and development.
The six aspects of the parent-school partnership and collaboration are essential, and schools must do everything possible to ensure that parents are engaged at the highest level possible.
Finally, it is important to note that the parent-school partnership does not take place in a vacuum. To be sure, it is greatly dependent upon the interrelated relationships between the following six social attributes or characteristics that are the essential components of a long-term, effective, and meaningful parent-school relationship:
• Purpose: The parent-school partnership must be purposeful to be successful and effective. Parents must always be careful, mindful, and cautious about the reasons they engage with the school and the school with the parents. It is not about ego, visibility, or power but rather the growth, development, and welfare of the child.
• Perseverance: The “part-
nership” is never about a one-off engagement or opportunity. It requires an unswerving and continuous effort on the part of parents to be involved in the school, its activities, and their child’s progress. This demands that the school administration and faculty be consistent and deliberate in their efforts to reach out, involve, and engage parents in a meaningful manner.
• Empathy: Teachers and administrators often subconsciously overlook the sensitive nature of a parent’s involvement in their child’s academic growth, achievement, and development. To this end, it is essential that the teacher and administration exhibit the utmost sensitivity when addressing a child’s progress. Parents are people with a profound personal interest in their children.
• Being Present: Although it is not always easy, “being present” is something that warrants serious attention. It is essential that the parent, irrespective of other commitments or workload, devote significant attention to their child’s schooling. This does not suggest micromanaging the teacher or administration but rather remaining in close contact with the school and faculty. Here, too, schools must find creative ways to be proactive in informing parents about the progress of their child.
• Positive Mindset: The faculty and administration must inform parents not only when there are challenges with the student but also to celebrate academic or social successes and milestones. This is important for parents, as well; they should freely share nachas and appreciation with the teacher and school. Those with positive mindsets usually bring a level of
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attention and positivity to the relationship, which is invaluable. There are even schools today that offer parents workshops and seminars on ways in which to develop positive and meaningful relationships with teachers and administrators.
• Modeling: One idea which has worked in some day schools and yeshivot, is to pair new and novice parents with experienced parents. By doing so, the experienced parents can help mentor and even coach the other parents. This arrangement can be implemented by the administration in partnership
with the PTO. The impact of this modeling can potentially be extremely impactful.
EndNote
In the final analysis, any successful parent-teacher partnership will depend upon how the school leadership team and its faculty support, promote, and publicly celebrate the relationship, and upon a parent body that embraces the mission, vision, and value proposition of the school. The partnership between parents and the school can have a tremendously inspiring and meaningful impact on the school,
parents, and students. Above all, it requires an unswerving commitment and a sense of urgency and importance.
(Excerpted from: Jewish Educational Leadership. February 4, 2025. By Dr. Chaim Y. Botwinick)
Dr. Chaim Botwinick is a senior educational consultant and executive leadership coach. With over 30 years of experience as a head of school, principal, and master teacher, he served in a variety of communal and educational leadership capacities. He is the co-founder of LEV Consulting Associates, specializing in strategic planning, resource development in education, and leadership development. Contact Dr. Botwinick at drbot1@aol.com.
U.S. Launches Major Strikes on Houthis
In a dramatic escalation, President Donald Trump ordered a series of powerful airstrikes on Houthi terrorist targets in Yemen, launching a bold military campaign to protect international shipping routes and reassert U.S. deterrence in the Red Sea region.
The offensive began on March 15 and continued for three consecutive days, targeting dozens of sites linked to the Iranian-backed Houthis. According to the Pentagon, the first wave of strikes hit 30 high-value Houthi positions, eliminating dozens of operatives. U.S. Central Command confirmed that precision strikes aimed to minimize civilian harm, despite conflicting reports from Houthi-run media.
President Trump made it clear that this was not a limited response. In a statement posted on Truth Social, he wrote, “To all Houthi terrorists, YOUR TIME IS UP, AND YOUR ATTACKS MUST STOP, STARTING TODAY. IF THEY DON’T, HELL WILL RAIN DOWN UPON YOU LIKE NOTHING YOU HAVE EVER SEEN BEFORE!”
The Houthis, who have launched more than 100 attacks on commercial and military ships since late 2023, have caused major disruptions to global trade. Two ships were sunk, another hijacked, and at least four seafarers were killed. Egypt alone reported $800 million in monthly losses from Suez Canal traffic rerouted due to Houthi threats.
The strikes come in direct response to the Houthis’ intensified campaign in solidarity with Hamas during Israel’s war in Gaza. They
also reflect Trump’s determination to reverse what he called former President Biden’s “pathetically weak” approach to the threat. Under Biden, the Houthis were delisted as a Foreign Terrorist Organization—a move Trump has now reversed.
“The Houthis are a proxy of Iran, plain and simple,” Trump declared. “Every shot fired by the Houthis will be looked upon as being fired by Iran, and Iran will be held fully responsible.”
Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei responded with threats of his own, warning the
U.S. could receive “severe slaps” if it continues what he called “malicious acts.” But Trump dismissed Tehran’s rhetoric, accusing Iran of not only backing but orchestrating the Houthi operations with weapons, funds, and intelligence.
Strikes against the Houthi rebels included the use of U.S. Navy carrier-based aircraft, with footage showing jets launching from the USS Harry S. Truman in the Red Sea. U.S. warships also intercepted and shot down multiple drones aimed at the Truman Carrier Strike Group, successfully neutralizing the threat.
This latest show of force is already being felt across the region. Trump, flanked by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, monitored operations from the White House situation room. A senior official noted, “President Trump is taking action to defend U.S. shipping assets and deter terrorist threats.”
The strikes follow an incident last month where the Houthis fired surface-to-air missiles at a U.S. F-16 and MQ-9 Reaper drone. Though both aircraft escaped unharmed, the message from Trump was unmistakable: the era of restraint is over.
With shipping costs surging, regional tensions rising, and Tehran watching closely, Trump has placed the full weight of American might behind a clear warning: terrorist threats will be crushed, and those who support them will face the consequences.
The Houthis—and their Iranian patrons—have been put on notice.
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Operation Inspiration: Senior Moments
I’ve been meaning to write about this topic for some time, but I kept forgetting to. It would pop into my mind, then before I could do anything with it, it would be gone. I mean, I wrote down an overview of the idea, but then I didn’t look at it for a while and forgot it was there. When I came across it again, I decided I would finally write it, but it took me a few more times of remembering randomly to say, “OK, now I’m going to write this.”
Of course, when I wanted to use this title, I couldn’t remember if I’d used it before, but at least it’s something I can search for on my computer. I didn’t find another column using this title, so I went with it, though I think it might have been funnier if I had used it before.
The topic for today, of course, is forgetting. Not forgetting which Divrei Torah you said last year at the Pesach Seder, and not even forgetting where you parked your car. I’m talking about REAL forgetting, like when you get into your car and can’t remember where you wanted to go, or whether you are getting in or getting out. I mean when you walk into a room and wonder, “Why am I here? What did I come for?”
Then you have to walk out, walk back in, and try to jog your memory. And I HATE jogging, so it’s even harder for me. I find myself getting a bit more forgetful, and the episodes happen a bit more frequently. They say it’s normal as you age, and that’s why they coined the term, “Senior Moment.” It is something that happens to many people, especially when they get older, and it doesn’t mean you have dementia. It just means your brain is so full of life experience that you sort of push other things into the corner.
By Rabbi Jonathan Gewirtz
OK, I don’t know if that last part is true, but I do think I know why this happens as we get older. It’s similar to something I’ve shared in the past.
As we age, even people whose eyesight has always been good begin having trouble seeing. It could be reading, seeing things at a distance, or switching from one to the other. When I started noticing it happening to me (and I’m really not THAT old, btw) I explained it as I saw it: “As we age, Hashem wants us to start looking at things differently.” Some people chuckled, thinking I was making a joke, but I wasn’t really. It’s simply the way I see it, that Hashem is trying to help us before it’s too late to change.
I think the same thing is happening with the memory lapses. As they happen more and more, you can’t deny them. (I hope I’m not the only one!) There’s something in your brain that is making you forget where you were heading or why, and then reminding once you realize you’ve forgotten. The message, it seems to me, is that we came to this world for a reason, and along the way, we tend to get sidetracked and forget why we’re here.
Do you remember the story of the fellow who heard of a place where diamonds were as plentiful as rocks or seashells on the sand? He traveled there on a ship that made the treach-
erous voyage once every few years. He collected a bunch of diamonds and went to a hotel, trying to pay with them. “Diamonds are worth nothing here,” he was told. “Potatoes, though, those are valuable!”
The man managed to borrow some money to tide him over, and then he began working. Over the next four years, he amassed a fortune, and was ready to head home. When the ship arrived, he booked cargo space and carefully loaded his haul.
When he arrived home, his wife and family gathered to see all the gems he had brought back. “Gems?!” he asked, “I brought back something much better, POTATOES!” They were dumbfounded.
The crates were opened but the potatoes had rotted on the voyage. In his time away on the island where diamonds were plentiful, he forgot what was truly valuable and bought into the mind frame of the islanders. When getting ready to clean his clothes, he found a few small diamonds in the pockets and hems with which his family was able to support themselves, but he felt humiliated as he realized his grave mistake in not gathering all the diamonds he could before he came home.
That story, of course, symbolizes this world, where mitzvos are as plentiful as the dust, and where they are scorned by society. We have to make sure we don’t forget why we came here. I think that’s why Hashem gives us these moments when we recognize our memories are faulty, and… um… what was I saying?
Did you enjoy this column? Feedback is welcome and appreciated. E-mail info@JewishSpeechWriter.com to share your thoughts. You never know when you may be the lamp that enlightens someone else.
From the Battlefield to Academic Excellence: An Honors Student’s Journey with the Open University of Israel
Last week, Tal Sax was honored by the Open University of Israel for outstanding academic achievement, having completed a year of studies in psychology and life sciences with distinction — despite serving over 300 days in active military reserve duty since the war began.
Having returned to Israel in October 2023 aboard an emergency flight, he had only a brief moment to reunite with his family, survivors of the massacre in Netiv Ha’asara, before reporting to duty at the IDF’s elite Maglan unit.
Tal described his journey from the battlefield to academia during the award ceremony: “… on a rare break from combat, I remembered that I was also enrolled as an Open University student. I reached out to the university, clueless about how to continue. Their team walked me through everything, step by step, and suddenly, finishing the school year felt possible.” Returning to academia”, he said “was a tougher battle than those in South Lebanon and Khan Younis and, without the university’s unwavering support, completing my degree — let alone excelling academically — would have been impossible”.
At the ceremony, Tal dedicated the award to his fallen comrade, Omer Gavra, who gave his life defending the Gaza Envelope communities on October 7. “I miss you, my brother. Not a day goes by that I don’t think of you.”
Florida Resident Former Ambassador David Friedman Receives Golan Award SEIZING THE MOMENT
BY Yaakov Selavan
You Have Reached High Position for Just Such a Time: The Golan, Securing Israel’s North There are some opportunities in life that do not come around a second time. Six years ago presented one such moment, a pivotal juncture where the trajectory of regional security could be significantly influenced.
David Friedman, then serving as the United States’ Ambassador to Israel, was presented with the opportunity to articulate the compelling case for Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights directly to then President of the United States, Donald Trump.
The President’s subsequent agreement and formal recognition of Israel’s historical right to the Golan marked a watershed moment. As Ambassador Friedman waited for his flight that night from Israel to the US it was Erev Purim and the echoes of the Purim story resonated deeply, particularly the powerful verse from Megilat Esther:
- “And who knows if you have reached High Position for just such a time.” This sentiment underscores the profound sense of purpose and historical significance that accompanied Ambassador Friedman’s actions, actions that have had a lasting impact on the State of Israel, bolstering its future security and prosperity.
The recent honor bestowed
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upon Ambassador Friedman – the 2025 Honorary Golan Citizenship Award – serves as a powerful testament to the enduring gratitude of the Golan’s residents. This recognition comes six years after the President’s bold declaration, a declaration that continues to be viewed as not just crucial for Israel’s defense but an act of justice, recognizing Israel’s historic right to the Golan Heights.
Given recent events in Lebanon and Syria, the Ambassador’s actions and the decision of the President changed the course of history in the Middle East.
The ongoing turmoil in Syria only amplifies the importance of Israel’s control over the Golan. The protracted Syrian civil war has fractured the country, creating a power vacuum that has been exploited by various extremist organizations, many of whom harbor hostile intentions towards Israel, despite changing their traditional dress for new suits. The presence of these groups along Israel’s northern frontier poses a direct and tangible threat. The Golan and its citizens are Israel’s first line of defense along the northern frontier
Similarly, the entrenched instability in neighboring Lebanon presents another significant security challenge for Israel. The continued presence of Hezbollah, a heavily armed and Iran-backed militant group, along the Lebanese border continues to pose threat. The Golan Heights acts as an additional layer of defense in this context, providing a crucial buffer zone against potential aggression from the north. The combination of state fragility in Syria and the military capabilities of Hezbollah
in Lebanon creates a complex and volatile security environment, underscoring the non-negotiable nature of the Golan’s strategic value for Israel’s national defense.
Beyond immediate security concerns, the Golan Heights has an opportunity to serve as physical and cultural bridge between the State of Israel the Syrian Druze community. The importance of fostering strong relationships with the Druze community residing in Syria, especially those near the Golan border, is another crucial aspect of Israel’s northern security strategy.
The recognition of Israel’s sovereignty over the Golan Heights, facilitated by Ambassador Friedman’s timely intervention,
was a decision deeply rooted in the strategic realities of the region as well as Israel’s historic ties to the Land of the Bashan.
That historic decision then impacts now and offers Israel and the region an opportunity to not just break Iran’s Axis of Evil but to build a buffer of strong local actors to push it out of the region forever.
The 2025 Honorary Golan Citizenship Award is a fitting acknowledgment of this enduring legacy.
Yaakov Selavan is the Deputy Governor of the Golan Heights Regional Council and an IDF Major in reserves. He took part in the war both in Gaza and Lebanon. His unit, the 188th Armored Brigade is the only IDF unit protecting Israel simultaneously in Syria, Lebanon and Gaza.
GAN CHABAD PRESCHOOL
Public school children designing Mishloach Manot and preparing for their Purim Skit at the Chabad Chayil grand Purim Celebration. Credits: HebrewSchool.info & ChabadChayil.org/Preschool
Gan Chabad Preschool children making their own Pesach Hagada. Credit: ChabadChayil.org/Preschool
SQUARE CAFE
CHAP Public School children learn how Matzah is Made at Chabad Chayil’s Model Matzah Bakery. Credits: HebrewSchool.info
SHAAREI BINA
Grand opening of the Square Cafe in North Miami Shaarei Bina Students doing virtual reality research
If you or your loved one needs care at home, Nautilus will match you with the perfect caregiver. We make sure every patient receives the personalized and tailored care they deserve,
Rabbi Yitzchak Lasry
Rabbi of the "Yehilat Yitzchak" community, expert consultant in couples counseling and professional therapist for men and women for over 10 years. Combines psychology, coaching, and practical applications from the world of Kabbalah and daily Jewish life.
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YESHIVA OF MIAMI
Our Weekly Visit at JEMS
We played Ohr HaTorah in their last game of the season and participated in their awards ceremony as well.
KATZ YESHIVA HIGH SCHOOL
This week we took our freshmen class ice skating at Boca Ice. From wobbly first steps to graceful glides, we shared plenty of laughs and moments that brought us closer together.
YESHIVA TORAS CHAIM TORAS EMES THE FUN CLUB
The elementary school girls are painting stunning masterpieces as they prepare for Pesach.
Purim Party at the Fun Club for single parent families.
COMMUNITY HEALTH
Concierge Medicine: The Future of Personalized Healthcare
By Dr. Sarah Rosanel, MD FACC, Concierge Physician in Miami Florida - Internal Medicine Specialist/ Family Medicine and Cardiologist
At 42, Rachel was juggling a demanding career and family life when she began feeling constantly fatigued and short of breath. Frustrated by long wait times, rushed appointments, and a healthcare system that treated her like just another number, she struggled to find real answers. Determined to take control of her health, she turned to a concierge physician— and the results changed her life.
Within months of longer, unhurried visits with her concierge doctor—where every aspect of her health was carefully assessed—her energy returned, and she felt better than she had in years.
The Rise of Concierge Medicine
Rachel’s story highlights a growing trend: more patients are turning to concierge medicine for truly personalized, continuous care— not just quick fixes. Unlike the traditional healthcare model, where doctors rush through 15-minute appointments after 60-minute wait times, concierge physicians spend an hour or more per visit, taking the time to address every concern and create a comprehensive, long-term health plan. Concierge medicine puts the patient first, removing the barriers created by insurance companies, pre-authorizations, and surprise bills. Patients pay a transparent annual fee in exchange for:
Unmatched Physician Access – Longer visits, direct communication, and same-day or nextday appointments.
Comprehensive Care –
A doctor who knows your full medical history and manages all aspects of your health.
Proactive Prevention – Routine check-ups, screenings, and early intervention before small issues become big problems.
Reduced Healthcare Costs –Avoid excessive insurance premiums, high deductibles, and unexpected bills.
Frustration with Traditional Healthcare
Many patients are exhausted by the complexities of health insurance—high premiums, limited networks, long wait times, and endless red tape just to get the care they need. Finding an in-network doctor can feel impossible, and when they do, they often face rushed visits with little time for real discussion. Concierge medicine eliminates these frustrations, offering direct access to a doctor who truly knows you.
Rachel’s experience proves that concierge medicine is redefining healthcare—shifting from reactive, fragmented care to proactive, comprehensive, and patient-focused medicine. As more people seek a doctor who sees them as a whole person, not just a diagnosis, concierge medicine is becoming the future of healthcare.
Dr. Sarah Rosanel is a dedicated concierge physician based in Miami, FL, specializing in personalized healthcare tailored to the unique needs of her patients. With a holistic approach that blends traditional medicine, lifestyle interventions, and functional medicine, she empowers individuals to achieve optimal health and well-being.
As an expert in Concierge Medicine & Cardiology, Dr. Rosanel integrates cutting-edge medical treatments with holistic methodologies, ensuring comprehensive care that goes beyond symptom management to address the root causes of health concerns.
Beyond her medical practice, Dr. Rosanel is a devoted mother to Ariel, Zev, and Shirley, balancing her passion for healing with family life.
�� Book an Appoi n tme n t: Cal l or tex t (646) 467-4368 �� Miami, Flo r id a | �� i n fo@D r Rosa n el.com
Photo credit-@DavidLeviPhotography
KID’S ZONE KID’S ZONE
KID’S ZONE KID’S ZONE
Zack Wargon Boca Raton
David Azancot
years old
Ahuva Zafrany
Noam Drang
Talya Zafrany
Miami Beach
Chaya Sara Horowitz
Miami Beach
Racheli Tanami Surfside
years old
Rafaella Huss Boca Raton
Mikayla Huss Boca Raton
Devorah Miller Boynton Beach
Abie Ehrenfeld
Tzvi Ehrenfeld
Raton
Avigayil Applebaum Boca Raton
Shaina Deitsch Parkland
Esther Tanami Surfside
KID’S ZONE KID’S ZONE
RIDDLES BRAIN TEASERS &
All Aboard the Riddle Express! Ten tricky train riddles for smart kids – can you solve them all before the next stop?
1. I’m always first, but I follow a line. I don’t have eyes, but I stay in design. I pull others behind, though they never complain —
I’m not a leader, I am the train. What part am I?
(The engine / locomotive)
2. When I come, you wait. When I stop, you move.
I take you places but I don’t approve. I control the flow with just red and green. I’m not alive, but I’m always seen. What am I?
3. You’ll never find me lost or wild, Though I travel mile by mile.
I don’t steer left, I don’t steer right, Yet somehow I arrive just right. What am I?
4. I’m not a train, but I ride inside. I take the tickets and watch the ride. I don’t drive, but I make the calls. When there’s trouble, I walk the halls. Who am I?
5. I hide below, you rarely see, But without me, there’d be no journey. I’m made of gravel, steel, and ties — Guess me if you’re really wise. What am I?
6. I run all day but I don’t get tired. I breathe smoke, though I’m not on fire. I eat coal and puff with pride —
Once king of tracks, now pushed aside. What am I?
(A steam engine)
7. I’m not the driver, but I sit up front. Without me, the journey would face a stunt. I point the way and keep things clear, Though I can’t see and I can’t hear. What am I?
(The front car / cowcatcher / pilot)
8. No windows, no seats, no snacks or sound, Yet I’m part of the train that’s underground. I send the signals, I hum and I blink — Without me, the train can’t even think. What am I?
(The control system / rail signaling system / third rail) (A railway signal / traffic light for trains) (A train — because it follows tracks) (The conductor) (The railway bed / track foundation)
9. You’re standing still, yet I zoom past. A blur of color, gone so fast. But when I stop, I open wide — And then invite you all inside. What am I?
(A high-speed train / express train)
10. I stretch across cities, through tunnels and trees. I move through the cold, the rain, and the breeze. Some say I’m late, some say I’m loud — But for those without cars, I make them proud. What am I?
(Public transportation trains / the railway system)
KID’S ZONE KID’S ZONE
DID YOU KNOW THAT...
REALLY COOL TRAIN FACTS
1. There’s a train in Argentina called “The Train to the Clouds” that rides so high, you’re actually in the clouds!
2. In Peru, a luxury train called the Andean Explorer takes passengers through the mountains at super high altitudes — and it has a spa on board!
3. Japan once built a train that used jet engines to go super fast — it looked like a rocket on rails!
4. India has a train station where monkeys are known to hang out and sometimes even ride the trains.
5. There’s a train in Alaska that stops for bears, moose, and other wild animals crossing the tracks.
6. Australia’s Ghan train travels across the whole continent and takes four days from start to finish!
7. In Switzerland, one train tilts as it goes around corners so passengers don’t spill their drinks.
8. The London Underground is the oldest underground railway in the world — it opened in 1863 and is still running!
9. The Trans-Siberian Railway in Russia is the longest railway line on Earth — over 5,700 miles!
10. There’s a train-themed hotel in South Africa where you sleep in old train cars parked on a bridge!
KID’S ART CONTEST KID’S ZONE KID’S ZONE
Email your artwork to editor@tsfcommunityvoice.com
Make sure to include your name, age and city. Entries must be received by April 6.
This type of contest encourages creativity, education and community engagement. It allows kids to express themselves through art, and it also provides an opportunity for their work to be showcased in the magazine.
Sponsored by: SMASH HOUSE BURGERS smashhouseburgers.com (305) 351- 9545
Finish the weekly project, snap a pic, and email us at info@jcm.museum for a chance to win a prize. Let’s get creating!
2. THE NUGGET
When Zimri did an aveira, Moshe, Aharon, and the Zkeinim didn’t know what action to take. Pinchas, a young scholar who had only learned the Halacha once, remembered what to do and acted immediately. Only Pinchas remembered – not his elders – because his role in the story was part of his mission in elevating this world. Similarly, every person comes to the world with a special purpose only they can do.
4. FUN FACT
According to Targum Yonasan, Pinchas is the same person as Eliyahu Hanavi, who will be the Mevaser HaGeulah, the one to announce the coming of Moshiach.
1. LIFE STORY SNIPPET
Pinchas was the son of Elazar, and the grandson of Aharon HaKohen, whose peaceful nature he inherited. Toward the end of Bnei Yisraels’ 40year journey in the desert, he took action, and killed Zimri, the prince of Shevet Shimon, who did an aveira. He acted not out of aggression, but purely for the sake of Hashem, for which he was rewarded with the Kehuna. Later, he was one of the spies sent by Yehoshua to scout the city of Yericho.
3. BRINGING IT DOWN
If a situation arises and you see that there is something particular which needs to happen, step forward and do it if you can – even if older kids or adults around you are silent or passive.
5. QUESTION TO CONSIDER
What Mitzvah or part of Yiddishkeit do you feel knowledgeable and confident about?
PARACHUTE CRAFT PINCHAS
Take a ziploc bag and cut around all four sides to create 2 squares. Tape one square onto the template and cut around to create a circle.
Cut four strings of yarn, each 1 foot long, and tie each one through a hole in the parachute.
Use the permanent markers to trace over the design onto the parachute.
To create the parachute handle, wrap two pipe cleaners around the 6-inch skewer.
To reinforce the plastic for hole punching, place 1½ inch long pieces of tape along four edges of the circle. and then use a hole puncher to punch out a hole in each piece of tape.
To make the arms, take a pipe cleaner and fold it into a bow. Gently push down on the center.
Twist the ends of the folded section together, leaving about an inch untwisted at the end. Next, secure the bow behind the torso by twisting the overlapping parts around the pipe cleaner. Continue twisting until only a small opening remains on either side.
SCIENCE UNCOVERED
Cut a pipe cleaner to 8 inches and fold it in half, leave
space to create a loop then twist down, leaving about one inch on either end. Bend the two loose ends to create feet.
Attach the person to the handle with a glue dot. Take two strings from the parachute and tie it to one arm. Repeat with the second arm. 8
While standing at the top of a staircase, gently let the parachute man go and watch it glide gracefully to the floor!
Here’s the science behind this: When you drop something, gravity pulls it down. But when a parachute opens, it creates a large surface area that pushes against the air – also called air resistance – which slows down the fall. The larger the parachute, the more air it catches, and the slower the descent. This is why parachutes help people land safely instead of falling too fast!
SUPPLIES LIST
-Printed Template
-A One-Gallon Plastic Bag
-Metallic Permanent Markers
-Yarn, 4 Feet
-Clear Tape
-Hole Puncher
-6 Inch Skewer
-4 Pipe Cleaners, 2 of Each Color
-Glue Dot
-Scissors
Stacked Eggplant Rounds
By Jamie Geller
• 40 MIN DURATION • 25 MIN COOK TIME • 15 MIN PREP TIME • 4-6 SERVINGS •
Note: To seed tomatoes, cut tomato in half and gently scopp out seeds; or turn halves upside down over a bowl and gently squeeze until all the seeds have come out. Tomato seeds can be bitter and so can eggplant, so it is better to remove the seeds for these Stacked Eggplant Rounds.
Ingredients
• Canola Oil Cooking Spray
• 2 eggplants, unpeeled, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds
• Kosher salt
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
• 1 (8 ounce) container feta cheese, crumbled
• 6 on-the-vine tomatoes, seeded and chopped or 1 (16 ounce) can chopped tomatoes, drained
• 1 green pepper, seeds and ribs removed, finely chopped
• 8 large basil leaves
Preparation
1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Lightly spray jelly-roll pan with cooking spray.
2. Place eggplant slices on paper towels and sprinkle lightly with salt. Let sit for about 5 minutes. Pat dry with more paper towels.
3. Lay the eggplant rounds in a single layer on a prepared pan. Brush with olive oil and season with pepper. Roast for 15 minutes; turn over and brush with oil. Continue roasting for 10 minutes more.
4. While eggplant is roasting, combine feta, tomatoes, and peppers in a medium bowl. Set aside.
5. Stack basil leaves, roll them up like a cigar, and slice them into thin strips (a chiffonade).
6. Place one slice eggplany on a serving platter. Spoon 1 - 2 tabelspoons feta mixture on top. Repeat layers. Finish with a few shreds basil. Repeat with remaining ingredients. Serve with Braised Carrots.
Jamie Geller is the Chief Media and Marketing Officer at Aish. She is also a bestselling cookbook author, celebrity chef, television producer, and businesswoman. She’s the author of eight cookbooks and the founder of Kosher Media Network.
Personal Taxes Done Right: Why Expert Guidance Makes All the Difference
By Signature CPAs & Advisors
At Signature CPAs & Advisors, we believe tax season shouldn’t feel like damage control—it should feel like strategy. Our boutique firm offers a personalized approach to personal tax planning and preparation, helping you not only meet compliance requirements but uncover opportunities to optimize your financial picture. Whether you’re a salaried professional, self-employed entrepreneur, investor, or retiree, your personal taxes deserve more than a one-size-fits-all solution.
More Than Just Filing—We Plan Ahead
While many firms focus solely on preparing returns, we take a planning-first approach. We get to know your full financial landscape—income, investments, business interests, family dynamics, and goals—so we can advise on:
• Timing of income and deductions
• Charitable contribution strategies
• Retirement plan contributions and distributions
• Real estate and investment tax implications
• Education and healthcare-related tax credits
• Filing status and dependent planning
• Estimated tax payments and safe harbor rules
Our goal? To help you keep more of what you earn, legally and confidently.
Common Pain Points We Solve
• Surprise tax bills from underpayment or poor planning
• Overlooked deductions or credits (like energy-efficient home upgrades or medical expenses)
• Tax confusion from crypto, stock options, rental properties, or multiple income sources
• Filing complexity due to major life changes—marriage, divorce, relocation, inheritance, or a growing family
We bring clarity to complexity and ensure nothing is missed.
Secure, Efficient, Boutique Service
We know tax conversations can be personal—so we offer the privacy, responsiveness, and relationship focus of a boutique firm. Our secure digital tools make document sharing and signature collection seamless, while our one-
on-one advisory keeps you in the loop at every step. You’re not just another file in the system. At Signature, you’re a client with a name, a story, and a financial vision we take seriously.
The Signature Standard
Our personal tax services include:
- Individual Federal & State Tax Return Preparation
- Year-Round Tax Planning
- IRS/State Correspondence & Audit Support
- Tax Strategy Sessions for High-Earners & Business Owners
- Multi-State Filing & Residency Planning
- Coordination with Financial Advisors & Estate Planners
Let’s make this tax season your smoothest one yet.
Whether it’s your first return with us or your fifteenth, we treat every client with white-glove attention. At Signature CPAs & Advisors, we don’t just prepare taxes—we prepare you for what’s ahead.
Betsalel Touitou, CPA & Oren Dayan, CPA
Ir Yamim, North & Park HaYam Properties that are walkable to the beach, close to Anglo-Young Israel or Torani communities with pool & amenities. LUXURY TO AFFORDABLE
JERUSALEM
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Fabulous houses with & without pools and spacious apts in Mitzpe Nevo, Ma’ale Adumim. A beautiful 4bedroom penthouse in Arnona & various options throughout Jerusalem.
A growing community that’s ideal for young families. Centrally located, 35-40 minutes by train from Tel Aviv or Jerusalem. Parks, schools, and shopping make it a perfect place to build a family!
Recent Bank of Israel Regulations Impact Property Purchases for Foreign Buyers
As an Israeli attorney specializing in real estate transactions for Jewish foreign residents, primarily from the United States, I want to alert potential buyers about significant regulatory changes recently implemented by the Bank of Israel that may affect your property purchase plans in Israel.
New Restrictions on Developer Loans
This week, the Bank of Israel introduced new regulations that substantially limit “developer loans” (halovaot kablan) – a financing mechanism that has been particularly popular among foreign buyers purchasing new properties from developers in Israel.
How These Loans Worked
These developer loans created an advantageous arrangement for both buyers and developers:
• Buyers could make minimal initial investments, often as low as 10% of the property value at contract signing, with the remainder due upon completion
• Developers would receive loans from banks against these contracts, effectively receiving a significant portion of the purchase price upfront
This created a win-win situation: buyers enjoyed low initial capital requirements, while developers
By Yitzchak Steinberg
gained relatively quick cash flow at interest rates lower than other financing options
For foreign buyers unfamiliar with the Israeli banking system or unable to qualify for local mortgages, this payment structure made purchasing Israeli properties significantly more accessible. What’s Changing?
The new regulations impose two major restrictions:
• Volume Limitations: The Bank of Israel has capped the percentage of units in each project that can be sold using developer financing. This means fewer properties will be available with this preferred payment method.
• Increased Costs: The regulations have made these loans more expensive for developers, who will inevitably pass these costs on to buyers through higher interest rates or purchase prices.
Why This Matters for American Jewish Buyers
These changes present particular challenges for foreign buyers who have traditionally relied on developer financing to streamline their Israeli property purchases. Without access to these loans, buyers may need to:
• Provide larger down payments upfront
• Establish banking relationships in Israel
• Navigate the Israeli mortgage system as non-residents
• Deal with currency exchange risks
Recommendations for Prospective Buyers
If you’re considering purchasing property in Israel, I recommend the following steps:
• Act promptly if you’re interested in new developments, as the available units with developer financing will be more limited.
• Explore alternatives such as Israeli bank mortgages for non-residents or other financing options through international banks with Israeli connections.
• Budget for higher costs as developers adjust their pricing to account for the new regulatory expenses.
• Consult with specialists who understand both Israeli real estate and the unique needs of foreign buyers.
While these changes present new challenges, the Israeli property market remains attractive for foreign buyers. The fundamental appeal of owning property in Israel – whether for personal use, investment, or establishing a connection to the homeland – remains unchanged.
Yitzchak Steinberg is a legal expert specializing in representing foreign residents in Israeli real estate transactions. Over the years, he and his team have successfully guided thousands of international buyers through property acquisitions in Israel. His extensive experience spans clients from across the globe, making him a trusted advisor in navigating the complexities of Israeli real estate law for non-residents. office@ys-law.co.il +972-2-5002923 Watsapp : +972-53-277-5431
Appliances
DOGE – Discipline, Overspending, Goals and Efficiency
By Shmuel Shayowitz
Imagine, for a moment, that Elon Musk himself walked into your home - not to pitch you on a Tesla, not to talk about colonizing Mars - but to conduct a full-blown audit of your life. And not just your finances - but your time, your work ethic, your energy usage … all of it. Imagine that he would be tasked with analyzing your bank statements, your daily routine, the way you manage your household, and your personal and professional work habits. How do you think it would go?
From launching Tesla and SpaceX to co-founding PayPal, which revolutionized online payments, Elon Musk has built a legacy of disrupting industries and redefining the “norm” in technology, space exploration, and transportation. He didn’t stop there. He took over Twitter (now X) to reshape digital communication, he co-founded ChatGPT, a staple in consumer AI usage today, launched Neuralink to bridge the gap between AI and the human brain, and developed The Boring Company to rethink urban transportation. Whether you admire him or question his methods, there’s no denying he’s a relentless force of creativity and productivity.
Then there is the average U.S. consumer … Most people run their lives like a company on the brink of bankruptcy. The money leaks are everywhere. Streaming services they don’t use, memberships they don’t even remember signing up for, and that $9.99-a-month subscription that started as a free trial that is now just quietly stealing
your money every month. Then there’s the daily Starbucks. Musk would do the math in his head faster than your calculator app could load and tell you that, yes, your daily $7 latte habit actually costs you over $2,500 a year. And while that alone won’t make or break your financial future, it’s a symptom of a bigger problem – that most people are spending money mindlessly. It wouldn’t stop at your finances. He would check your phone’s screen time and raise an eyebrow when he sees you’ve burned four hours scrolling through TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram - convincing yourself that watching “motivational content” counts as self-improvement or research. Then there’s Netflix – clocking in at two hours spent binge-watching, half of which was just deciding what to watch. The list goes on and on.
Musk wouldn’t just call it out - he would demand a fix. Cut out the fluff. Eliminate the waste. He would suggest that you set up a budgeting tool to track where your money. You can use a simple rule - if you haven’t actively thought about or used a subscription in the last 30 days - cancel it immediately. When it comes to time management, Musk would insist on his proven method of task-batching and time-blocking. He would demand that you schedule deep work like you schedule meetings and make critical tasks non-negotiable.
But the real wake-up call would come when he looks at your work ethic. Because here’s the thingmost people believe they’re working
hard. They’re busy. But being busy is not the same as being productive. Musk would likely ask, “What have you built? What have you created? Where’s the output?” Whether you have been talking about starting a business, cleaning your office, or getting in shape for the past year, he would call you out on it. His likely advice - take immediate action … stop overanalyzing … stop waiting for “the perfect time,” and just make your first move.
Granted, Musk may be an unmarried, self-admittedly unhappy, restless workaholic whose relentless drive defies human logic - so his lifestyle isn’t exactly a blueprint for everyone. But if there’s one thing to take away from his success, it is that relentless improvement and bold action can push us all to be just a little better than we were yesterday.
Would you rather have Elon Musk as a personal coach or your spouse? Please let me know if you have a good “Would you rather” question, and we will highlight your submission.
Shmuel Shayowitz (NMLS#19871 ) is a highly regarded Real Estate & Finance Executive, Writer, Speaker, Coach, and Advisor. He is President and Chief Lending Officer of Approved Funding, a privately held national mortgage banker and direct lender. Shmuel has over twenty years of industry experience, holding numerous licenses and accreditations, including certified mortgage underwriter, licensed real estate agent, residential review appraiser, and accredited investor, to name a few. Shmuel has successfully navigated through many changing markets and business landscapes, making his market insights and experience well-coveted within the real estate industry. He can be reached via email at Shmuel@approvedfunding.com.
