Yesterday, June 21, was officially the first day of summer.

I may just be getting sentimental, but reading about the passing of Maurice Sendak, beloved author of Where the Wild Things Are, got me thinking - maybe children's books are just as much for adults as they are for kids.

While listening to the rabbi speak at the seder, I also found myself thinking of another, much more recent exodus: that of the Jewish people from the former Soviet Union, in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

I've often heard people say that someone's "true" nature is revealed during difficult times. And that humanity's "true" nature is actually animalistic, primitive and selfish. I have to tell you, I have my doubts.

2011 was a year that I believe can't be defined as either positive or negative, as the world saw its fair share of tragedies and miracles. But it's hard to imagine a year more memorable, filled with more historic events or important news stories, in recent years.

I’ve found that the idea of gratitude takes on a whole new meaning when you work at a non-profit organization.

If you’re looking for answers to the complicated questions, you’re in the wrong place. But if you’re simply hoping for some insight into some of the wacky behaviors and logic sometimes displayed by Russian immigrants, stay on the page.