Skip to content

Instantly share code, notes, and snippets.

@simon-marcus

simon-marcus/shmuz1.xml

Last active March 9, 2019 04:53
Show Gist options
  • Save simon-marcus/5c4329d9811add7c71e845cf57bd03e4 to your computer and use it in GitHub Desktop.
Save simon-marcus/5c4329d9811add7c71e845cf57bd03e4 to your computer and use it in GitHub Desktop.
Download ZIP
Raw
shmuz1.xml
<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?>
<rss version="2.0" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:googleplay="http://www.google.com/schemas/play-podcasts/1.0" xmlns:itunes="http://www.itunes.com/dtds/podcast-1.0.dtd" xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/">
<channel>
<title>The Shmuz</title>
<link>http://www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<description>Yeshiva Programs For Working People</description>
<language>en</language>
<pubDate>Fri, 22 Jul 2011 14:58:39 GMT</pubDate>
<docs>http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss</docs>
<managingEditor>[email protected]</managingEditor>
<webMaster>[email protected]</webMaster>
<category>Religion, Jewish, Judisam</category>
<ttl>1440</ttl>
<generator>RSSeditor v0.9.54 (http://www.rss-info.com)</generator>
<image>
<url>http://theshmuz.com/magnet.jpg</url>
<link>http://theshmuz.com</link>
<title>The Shmuz</title>
</image>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 11 Sep 2017 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#265- Rosh HaShanah 5778</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/265.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ A World Unraveling ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 11 Sep 2017 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#264- Tisha BAv 5777</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/264.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ A World Unraveling ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 13 Jul 2017 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#260- Holy Pleasures</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/260.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ A World Unraveling ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 13 Jul 2017 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#259- Whats Wrong with a Rainbow</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/259.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ A World Unraveling ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 13 Jul 2017 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#258- HASHEM Loves Me</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/258.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ A World Unraveling ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 13 Jul 2017 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#257- Is it True Love-Dating Shmuz</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/257.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ A World Unraveling ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 13 Jul 2017 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#256- A Mitzvah to Listen to the Rabbis</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/256.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ A World Unraveling ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 13 Jul 2017 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#255- Teshuva Shmuz 5776</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/255.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ A World Unraveling ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 13 Jul 2017 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#254- Biases and Prejudice</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/254.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ A World Unraveling ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 13 Jul 2017 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#253- Learning to Love Hashem</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/253.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ A World Unraveling ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 13 Jul 2017 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#252- If I Were a Rich Man</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/252.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ A World Unraveling ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 13 Jul 2017 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#251- Kindliness is Gdliness</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/251.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ A World Unraveling ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2015 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#248- Stop Playing Gd</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/248.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ A World Unraveling ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2015 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#247 - Teshuvah Shmuz 5775 - Maybe its My Fault</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/247.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ A World Unraveling ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 09 Aug 2014 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#246- Tisha Beav A World Unraveling</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/246.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ A World Unraveling ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 09 Aug 2014 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#243- Needs of the Soul </title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/243.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Needs of the Soul ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 01 Dec 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#242- Marriage the Second Time Around</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/242.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Marriage the Second Time Around ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 01 Dec 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#241- The Gratitude Attitude </title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/241.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ The Gratitude Attitude ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 01 Dec 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#240- The Gratitude Principle </title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/240.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ The Gratitude Principle ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 21 Oct 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#239- Being Wise to Yourself </title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/239.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Being Wise to Yourself ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 21 Oct 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#238- Teshuvah Shmuz 5774 </title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/238.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Teshuvah Shmuz 5774 ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 21 Oct 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#237- Teshuvah Shmuz 5774 - The Damage of Sin </title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/237.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Teshuvah Shmuz 5774 - The Damage of Sin ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Tue, 03 Sep 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#236- How to Talk so that HASHEM Listens </title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/236.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ How to Talk so that HASHEM Listens ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 26 Aug 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#235- One Small Step For a Man </title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/235.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ One Small Step For a Man ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 26 Aug 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#234- Man Dependent on HASHEM </title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/234.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Man Dependent on HASHEM ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 15 Aug 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#233- If We Knew What Our Prayers Do </title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/233.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ If We Knew What Our Prayers Do ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 31 Jul 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#232- Tisha BAv What we Lost </title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/232.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Tisha BAv What we Lost ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 26 Jun 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#231- Marriage: Women Are From Venus </title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/231.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Marriage: Women Are From Venus ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Fri, 05 Jul 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#230- Marriage: The Art of the Apology </title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/230.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Marriage: The Art of the Apology ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Fri, 14 Jun 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#229- Marriage: Communication in Marriage </title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/229.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Marriage: Communication in Marriage ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Tue, 11 Jun 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#228- Marriage: I Can't Respect Him Her </title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/228.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Marriage: I Can't Respect Him Her ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Fri, 31 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#227- Marriage, A Unit of One, and I am the One </title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/227.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Marriage, A Unit of One, and I am the One ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 27 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#226- Respect, Can a Marriage Survive without it? </title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/226.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Respect, Can a Marriage Survive without it? ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 08 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Parsha in Depth - Bamidbar</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Parsha_in_Depth_Bamidbar.mp3" length="31853672"
type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Parsha in Depth - Bamidbar ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 08 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#225- Heaven's Judgements </title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/225.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Heaven's Judgements ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 01 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Parsha in Depth - Bechokosai</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Parsha_in_Depth_Bechokosai.mp3" length="31853672"
type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Parsha in Depth - Bechokosai ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 30 Mar 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Parsha in Depth - Emor</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Parsha_in_Depth_Emor.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Parsha in Depth - Emor ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 30 Mar 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Parsha in Depth - Acharei Mot-Kedoshim</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Chumash_in_Depth_Acharei_Mot-Kedoshim.mp3"
length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Parsha in Depth - Acharei Mot-Kedoshim ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 30 Mar 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Parsha in Depth - Tazriah-Metzorah</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Chumash_in_Depth_Tazriah-Metzorah.mp3" length="31853672"
type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Parsha in Depth - Tazriah-Metzorah ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 30 Mar 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Parsha in Depth - Shemini</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Chumash_in_Dept_Shemini.mp3" length="31853672"
type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Parsha in Depth - Shemini ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Tue, 26 Feb 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#224- Ahmadinejad, the Palestinians and the Modern Purim Story</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/224.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Ahmadinejad, the Palestinians and the Modern Purim Story]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 01 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Parsha in Depth - Tzav</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Parsha_in_Depth_Tzav_Seeing_the_Maakos.mp3"
length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Parsha in Depth - Tzav ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 17 Feb 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Parsha in Depth - Va'yikrah</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Parsha_in_Depth_Vayikrah.mp3" length="31853672"
type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Parsha in Depth - Va'yikrah ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 17 Feb 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Parsha in Depth - Va'yakhel/Pekudi</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Parsha_in_Depth_Vayakahel_Pikudei.mp3" length="31853672"
type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Parsha in Depth - Va'yakhel/Pekudi ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 17 Feb 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Parsha in Depth - Ki Tisa</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Parsha_in_Depth_KiTisah.mp3" length="31853672"
type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Parsha in Depth - Ki Tisa ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 17 Feb 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Parsha in Depth - Tizaveh Purim</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Parsha_in_Depth_Tizaveh_Purim.mp3" length="31853672"
type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Parsha in Depth - Tizaveh Purim ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jan 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Chumash in Depth - Terumah</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Chumash_in_Depth_Terumah.mp3" length="31853672"
type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Chumash in Dept - Terumah ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jan 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Chumash in Depth - Mishpatim</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Chumash_in_Depth_Mishpatim.mp3" length="31853672"
type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Chumash in Dept - Mishpatim ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jan 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Chumash in Depth - YIsro</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Chumash_in_Depth_YIsro.mp3" length="31853672"
type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Chumash in Dept - YIsro ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jan 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Chumash in Depth - Bishalach</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Chumash_in_Depth_Bishalach.mp3" length="31853672"
type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Chumash in Dept - Bishalach ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 17 Jan 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Chumash in Depth - Bo</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Chumash_in_Depth_Bo.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Chumash in Dept - Bo ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jan 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Chumash in Depth - VaEirah</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Chumash_in_Depth_VaEirah.mp3" length="31853672"
type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Chumash in Dept - VaEirah ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jan 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Chumash in Depth - Shemos</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Chumash_in_Depth_Shemos.mp3" length="31853672"
type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Chumash in Dept - Shemos ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jan 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#223- Reasons and Causes </title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/223.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Reasons and Causes ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jan 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#222- Dealing with Failure </title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/222.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Dealing with Failure ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 15 Nov 2012 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#221- Super Hurricanes and Changing Realities </title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/221.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Super Hurricanes and Changing Realities ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 15 Nov 2012 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Chumash in Depth - Vayichi</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Chumash_in_Depth_Vayichi.mp3" length="31853672"
type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Chumash in Dept - Vayichi ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 15 Nov 2012 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Chumash in Depth - Vayigash</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Chumash_in_Depth_Vayigash.mp3" length="31853672"
type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Chumash in Dept - Vayigash ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 15 Nov 2012 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Chumash in Depth - Miketz</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Chumash_in_Dept_Miketz.mp3" length="31853672"
type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Chumash in Dept - Miketz ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 15 Nov 2012 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Chumash in Depth - Vayeshev</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Chumash_in_Dept_Vayeshev.mp3" length="31853672"
type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Chumash in Dept - Vayeshev ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 15 Nov 2012 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Chumash in Depth - Vayishlach</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Chumash_in_Depth_Vayishlach.mp3" length="31853672"
type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Chumash in Dept - Vayishlach ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 15 Nov 2012 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Chumash in Depth - Vayeitzei</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Chumash_in_Depth_Vayeitzei.mp3" length="31853672"
type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Chumash in Dept - Vayeitzei ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 08 Oct 2012 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Chumash in Depth - Toldos</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Chumash_in_Depth_Toldos.mp3" length="31853672"
type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Chumash in Dept - Toldos ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 08 Oct 2012 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Chumash in Depth - Chayei Sarah</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Chumash_in_Depth_Chayei_Sarah.mp3" length="31853672"
type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Chumash in Dept - Chayei Sarah ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 08 Oct 2012 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Chumash in Depth - Vayearah</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Chumash_in_Depth_Vayearah.mp3" length="31853672"
type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Chumash in Dept - Vayearah ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 08 Oct 2012 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Chumash in Depth - Lech Licha</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Chumash_in_Depth_Lech_Licha.mp3" length="31853672"
type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Chumash in Dept - Lech Licha ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 08 Oct 2012 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Chumash in Depth - Noach</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Chumash_in_Depth_Noach.mp3" length="31853672"
type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Chumash in Dept - Noach ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 08 Oct 2012 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Chumash in Depth - Bereishis</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Chumash_in_Depth_Bereishis.mp3" length="31853672"
type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Chumash in Dept - Bereishis ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 08 Oct 2012 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>Chumash in Dept Introduction </title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/video/chumash_in_depth/Chumash_in_Dept_Introduction.mp3" length="31853672"
type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Chumash in Dept Introduction ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 20 Jan 2013 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#220 - Difficult Life Situation </title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/220.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Difficult Life Situation ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 08 Oct 2012 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#219 - Looking back on a Year Passed </title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/219.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Looking back on a Year Passed ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 05 Aug 2012 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#218- Understanding Suffering </title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/218.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Understanding Suffering ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 01 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#217- The Incredibe Power of Prayer</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/217.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ The Incredibe Power of Prayer ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#216 - Love the Life You Live</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/216.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Fleeting Glimpses of the Upper Worlds ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#215 - Fleeting Glimpses of the Upper Worlds</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/215.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Fleeting Glimpses of the Upper Worlds ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#214 - Hashem Waits for our Teshuvah </title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/214.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Hashem Waits for our Teshuvah ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#213 - The Tiny Giant Called "I"</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/213.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ The Tiny Giant Called I ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 23 Jul 2011 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#212 - Putting Joy Back into LIfe</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/212.mp3" length="31853672" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Putting Joy Back into LIfe ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 23 Jul 2011 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#211 - Putting G-d Back into the Relgion</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/211.mp3" length="18809280" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Putting G-d Back into the Relgion ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 23 Jul 2011 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#210 Why is Life Such a Battle</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Why is Life Such a Battle ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 20 Oct 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#209 The Whatever Generation</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/209.mp3" length="32914997" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ The Whatever Generation ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Tue, 28 Dec 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#206 - Teshuva Shmuz</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/206.mp3" length="28766976" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Teshuva Shmuz ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#205- The Giant Within</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/205.mp3" length="28766976" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Teshuva Shmuz ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#204 - Listening to your messages </title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/204.mp3" length="17233776" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Listening to your messages ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#203 - Disney Land USA, the ADD Generation</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/203.mp3" length="20418552" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Disney Land USA, the ADD Generation ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#202 - Outcomes and Intentions </title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/202.mp3" length="20780511" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Outcomes and Intentions ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#201 - Chanukah - The Power given to Man </title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/201.mp3" length="23669236" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Chanukah - The Power given to Man ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#199 - Lashon Harah- Mindless Chatter</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/199.mp3" length="34563457" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Whether we are aware of it or not whether we admit it or not-- We all speak Lashon Harah. And herein lies one of the great mysteries: The Rambam defines Lashon Harah as words that hurt words that damage. Yet, we are nice people. We arent malicious or mean spirited, and we certainly wouldnt do something to intentionally hurt another person. Yet, we regularly speak, words that hurt words that damage the question is why? <BR>This Shmuz focuses us on the fact that one of the biggest causes of Lashon Harah is simply not recognizing the effect of our words, and the impact that they have on other people. And therefore the solution is simple: to recognize the gravity of the words that we speak, and almost effortlessly we can remove one of the greatest obstacles to our growth and functionally be much better people.]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#198 - Life Transforming Moments</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/198.mp3" length="34563457" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Sir Winston Churchill is quoted as saying: Men occasionally stumble over the truth, but most of them pick themselves up and hurry off as if nothing had happened. <BR>The reality is that all of us have moments of truth: short lived burst of inspiration and clarity when we truly get it- when we fundamentally understand why we are here and what we are capable of. One of the great secrets of life is to capture those moments and use them to catapult our growth. <BR>This Shmuz introduces us to those often missed Life Transforming Moments and shows us the techniques to utilize them effectively.]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#197 - Teshuvah Shmuz 5770 - Limiting Beliefs</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/197.mp3" length="34563457" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[1. To fear HASHEM <BR>2. To go in all of His ways.<BR>3. To love HASHEM.<BR>4. To serve Him with all of you heart and your soul. <BR><BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#196 - I'd be the first to Thank HASHEM if</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/196.mp3" length="34563457" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[The Chovos Ha'Levovos explains that one of the most powerful driving forces in our serving HASHEM should be a sense of appreciation. We should be filled with a powerful feeling that I am the recipient of much good; that I am constantly benefiting from all that HASHEM has bestowed upon me. The sense that I am constantly receiving should fill me with a recognition that nothing that I could do would ever pay back for what HASHEM has given me. <BR><BR>Yet, often that isn't the sense that we feel-it seems far more common to feel "of course I would be the first to thank HASHEM if there were anything to thank him for-but my life stinks." <BR>This Shmuz focuses on a perspective change that allows us to enjoy the great wealth that we possess and our unaware of. <BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#195 - Stop Playing G-d!</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/195.mp3" length="34563457" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[I know exactly what it is that I need! I need to marry that woman; get that job; my child has to get into that class - and HASHEM just won't listen! I have tried to teach HASHEM. I have tried to speak to him. I even daven. But nothing helps. For some strange reason, HASHEM won't give me what I need. <BR>85% of our Emunah problems come from just such thinking: assuming that I know exactly what it is that I need and then having questions on HASHEM when He doesn't deliver it. Part of being a mature, thinking person is recognizing that I am exactly that - a person made of flesh and blood, here for a few short years. I come into this world while things are in full swing. I leave before I have much of a chance to sort things out. Yet I have the arrogance to think that I truly get it, that I know what is best for me. <BR><BR>This Shmuz introduces us to one of the most fundamental concepts in our serving HASHEM: recognizing that HASHEM cares more about me than I do, that He knows far better than I do what I need, and will do what is best for me five years from now, ten years from now, in this world, and in the World to Come.]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#194 Tisha B'Av- What we can do to bring the Geulah</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/194.mp3" length="34563457" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Tisha B'Av- What we can do to bring the Geulah ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#193 A Clash of Civilizations</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/193.mp3" length="27734" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[On the Voice of the Islamic Republic of Iran Radio on Oct. 20, 2006, the Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad declared: "[America] should understand that the message from the peoples of the region . . . is manifested in a single slogan: "Death to America!"<BR><BR>While America's foreign policy is set on appeasement and understanding, Iran is within months of attaining nuclear arms capacity, and so the threats are no longer mere slogans. The West seems to be ignoring the reality that we are not witnessing a war being waged by country against country, but rather a clash of civilizations that threatens to engulf the globe. <BR><BR>This is an essential Shmuz for putting some perspective on the volatile times we live in and making sense of a chaotic new world]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#192 HASHEM Really Cares</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/192.mp3" length="27734" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[If we could imagine the most kindly, giving, loving person and the take each of those traits and multiply them by 10,000, we still wouldn't begin to illustrate the tremendous loving kindness that HASHEM has towards Creation. <BR><BR>That being said, the only question is: why don't I feel it? Why isn't this something that is obvious to me? <BR><BR>This Shmuz focuses us on our relationship to HASHEM and what it takes to realize that HASHEM really cares.<BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#191 Combatting Robotic Judaism</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/191.mp3" length="27734" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[We all have bitachon. We all know that HASHEM determines our fate and all the events that will befall us. The problem is that this concept remains so far removed that while we know it on one level, in our day to day lives, it's non-existent. So while we say we trust in HASHEM, we live our lives in contradiction to this. <BR><BR>This Shmuz focuses on making our beliefs real and taking our bitachon from the potential to the actual<BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#190 My Rebbe</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/190.mp3" length="27734" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[The Chofetz Chaim network consist of <BR>high schools, batei medrashim, kollels, kiruv centers, shuls, and rabbonim and teachers across the country from communities as diverse as <BR>Milwaukee, Rochester, Los Angeles, the Five Towns, Miami, Cherry Hill, Manalapan, and Yerushalayim <BR><BR>- an empire of thousands of talmidim following in the mesorah given to them by their Rebbe. <BR><BR>This Shmuz is both a personal tribute and a recognition of the great gaon, Reb Alter Hencoch Hanoch Lebowitz. <BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#189 Encounters with G-d</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/189.mp3" length="27734" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Faith is a sort of vague, hopeful idealism. I have faith that your check won't bounce. I don't know, but I hope. Knowledge is far more concrete. I know that fire burns and that heavy objects fall. And while both faith and knowledge seem commendable, when it comes to relating to HASHEM, both fall short of what a human is capable of. <BR><BR>We have the capacity to experience HASHEM. Not only to have faith that He is present, not only to know it with absolute certainty, but to actually experience HASHEM. To reach that level, we must learn to encounter HASHEM. <BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#188 Rich Man, Poor Man - The Ferris Wheel of Life</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/188.mp3" length="27734" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Lehman brothers fell. The market is down. Real estate is down. Many people have lost their jobs. About the only thing that is up these days is sales of anti-depressants. <BR><BR>Putting some perspective on the events that we are living through, this Shmuz focuses on some of cycles of life and what our attitude towards them should be.<BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#187 Self Mastery - The Key to Good</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/187.mp3" length="25475758" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[I know that middos make the man. I understand that my character traits define every relationship that I am involved in. And I wish I were more generous, humble, and caring. But what can I do about it? I am who I am. <BR><BR>This Shmuz focuses on how it is that our gedolim changed their very nature and demonstrates the Torah's system for developing our middos. <BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#186 G-d for the Perplexed</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/186.mp3" length="27734" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[We are commanded to love G-d. We are commanded to fear G-d. Yet we really don't know that much about G-d. <BR><BR>We are certainly aware that HASHEM created the world and all that it contains, but how do we move beyond that to actually fearing and loving HASHEM? First, we must become aware of HASHEM's presence and His involvement in our lives, concepts that, while noble, may seem so far removed from our world that they don't seem attainable. <BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#185 Responsibility</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/185.mp3" length="27734" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[The adult is mature; the child is immature. <BR>The hallmark of the immature is to shirk responsibility; the characteristic of the mature is to take responsibility. <BR><BR>While we understand that so much of being an effective human being is based on being responsible, the message that comes to us from society at large is "I'm not responsible," and "It's not my fault." It's almost counter-cultural to be responsible. <BR><BR>This Shmuz focuses us on the role that responsibility plays in all of our relationships and its significance in allowing us to reach our potential. <BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#184- The Galus Mentality</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/184.mp3" length="27734" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>He's got money." <BR>"They come from a well-to-do family." <BR>"He's a man of means." <BR>It is often difficult to sense the influence that society has upon our way of thinking until certain events transpire and bring them to light. The recent financial meltdown is one of those events. It's a chance to see how much we have adopted from outside influences. One of the negative values that we have picked up from the society we live in is rating people by their financial success, where money becomes the sole measure of "making it." It has gotten to the point that for many people, their self-worth is directly tied to their net worth.<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 29 Aug 2011 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#183 With Perfect Faith: Bitachon in Turbulent Times.</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/183.mp3" length="20812088" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[For those of us paying bills and trying to make ends meet, dealing with the uncertainty in the marketplace today has become a major issue. <BR><BR>This Shmuz deals with the attitude and approach with which to view current events.<BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#182 Tolerating Evil: A Perspective on Recent Events</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/182.mp3" length="27734" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[This Shmuz deals with the attitude and approach that we should have in light of recent events.]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#181 Emunah in Difficult Times</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/181.mp3" length="27734" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[This Shmuz deals with the attitude and approach that we should have in these trying times. <BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#180 Why We Want Mosiach Now</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/180.mp3" length="27734" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Since the time that we were young children, we were taught, "We want Moshiach now!" This concept is not the exclusive domain of fringe elements of Jewry; rather, it is a basic tenet of our religion. The Rambam counts it as one of the Thirteen Main Principles, and if one denies it, he is considered a heretic with no portion in the World to Come. <BR>And so, we daven for Moshiach. We sing songs about Moshiach. We wait for Moshiach. But do we understand why? Do we understand what it is that we're waiting for? This Shmuz focuses on what life will be like in the times of Moshiach, and why in fact we anxiously await his appearance.<BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 29 Aug 2011 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#179 The Commitments of a Jew</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/179.mp3" length="27734" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#178 To One Person You May Be the Whole World</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/178.mp3" length="27734" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[While we may be aware of the influence that our thoughts and attitudes have on the way that we act, we rarely focus on the effect that we have on others. After all, who am I? Am I so important that I can really change other people? Do my actions really sway them? <BR>While this may be true for our relationship with most people, for each of us there are a few individuals on whom we have a profound influence. <BR>This Shmuz focuses on the concept that to the whole world you may be one person, but to one person you may be the whole world. <BR>By focusing on this, we come to a better understanding of the impact that we have on others and how we can use that opportunity for the best possible results. <BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Tue, 15 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#177 Being Grateful</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/177.mp3" length="16556462" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[This Shmuz deals with a basic concept in our becoming effective human beings: developing the trait of appreciation.]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#176 A Diamond with a Flaw</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/176.mp3" length="27734" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[The difference in value between a perfect diamond and an almost-perfect diamond can be a king's ransom. With the same cut, clarity, and color, a flawless ten-carat diamond might be worth two hundred dollars, while a diamond with a tiny flaw can be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars. <BR>That's right. The flawed diamond is worth more. Why? <BR>Because a completely flawless diamond is a fake. Real diamonds have imperfections. They may be small and almost unnoticeable, but they are flaws all the same. In fact, looking for imperfections is one of the methods professionals use to determine whether a diamond is a real gem or just cubic zirconium.<BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 13 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#175 Rosh Hashana Prep - Yom Ha Din</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/175.mp3" length="17567885" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA["Dip the apple in the honey, have a good sweet new year." <BR>We teach our children that touching song, and that is what we all wish for: a good sweet year with bracha and hatzlacha in all that we do. <BR><BR>But that often isn't the case. If we look back on previous years we see many things that were sweet, but also things that weren't. Some parts of our lives are downright bitter and we wish they'd never occurred. <BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 12 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#174 The illusion of reality </title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/174.mp3" length="27734" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ The illusion of reality <BR><BR> ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Fri, 11 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#173 Children of HASHEM</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/173.mp3" length="21449708" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Am I worthy to ask for even more than what I have been given? <BR>Why should HASHEM grant my requests? <BR>This Shmuz deals with our relationship with HASHEM, and helps us focus on some basic issues of davening and bitachon. <BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 10 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#172 Tisha B'Av 2000 Years Later - Where Are We?</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/172.mp3" length="27734" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[For almost 2,000 years, the Jewish people have been driven from land to land across the globe. Exiled from our home with the destruction of the Bais Hamikdash, we have been forced from continent to continent and country to country - tortured, oppressed, and banished. For a short while, we find haven in one country, only to be kicked out again and chased to the next place in a never-ending series of tragedies. This reality brings many questions: <BR><BR>Why is the Jewish people so oppressed? <BR>Why is it that the other nations stand up to destroy us in every generation? <BR>Why is it that the one universal law of history is that everyone hates the Jew? <BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 09 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#171 Don't Sweat the Small Stuff</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/171.mp3" length="27734" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[We all have those moments in life: a demanding boss, difficult people, situations that spin out of control. Learning how to effectively deal with trying circumstances goes a long way towards a happy, successful life.<BR><BR>If I am easygoing by nature, the secret to handling these situations is straightforward: follow my temperament. But what if that isn't my natural bent? What if I allow things to get to me? Or what if, over and over again, I just seem to lose it? <BR><BR>This Shmuz offers a perspective on life that allow us to more easily deal with the trying moments that come our way. <BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Tue, 08 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#170 Sweet Revenge</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/170.mp3" length="27734" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[The Rishonim tell us that nothing is sweeter then revenge. When a person feels he has been wronged, he waits - scheming and dreaming of ways to even up the score. <BR>If this is so instinctive a trait in the human, how can the Torah expect us to eliminate it? And even more significantly, revenge by definition is justified; I am only returning to him what he did to me. Why would the Torah demand that we avoid it? <BR>This Shmuz deals with a different perspective on revenge and offers us a vantage point for dealing with many life situations. <BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 07 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#169 Anger Taming the Monster Within</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/169.mp3" length="21449708" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[We've all had that moment when we lost it and said something we shouldn't have said -- something we later regretted.<BR>The intriguing part is that when the heat of the moment has passed, not only do we feel badly about what was said, often, we can't understand what came over us? "It was like I was possessed or something". <BR><BR>This Shmuz #169 Anger- Taming the Monster Within, deals with some of the mechanics of anger in the human, and by understanding why we get furious, we gain insight into what we can do about it.]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 06 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#168 - Emunah</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/168.mp3" length="27734" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[The Rishonim tell us that the most assured way to come to belief in HASHEM is to look out at the world. <BR><BR>When a person sees the beauty of the universe; the conformity of every part working together as a unit, everything so orderly and so reliable--the sun rising every morning exactly at the appointed time; the tides always pulling in the pre-described manner; the forces of nature all so seemingly untamed, yet always performing within a predictable, set pattern; all diverse parts conforming to a master plan--the world itself cries out: there is a Master to this house!<BR><BR>Yet, many intelligent, educated individuals look at this very phenomenon, study it, discuss it- and don't see HASHEM. Quite the opposite they attribute it all to some lucky roll of some cosmic dice. All of this wisdom just evolved, the entire plan just happened. How can we reconcile the undeniable evidence of a creator with the reality that many, many people just deny it? And how does it affect our own belief system?<BR><BR>This Shmuz explores some of the basics of Emunah, and brings us to a deeper understanding of what causes a person to believe or not believe.<BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 05 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#167 - Sefiras Ha'Omer Countdown to Ka'balas Ha'Torah</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/167.mp3" length="27734" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[We all know the importance of learning, and we certainly value it in our daily lives. Yet, somehow that sense of significance doesn't always translate into reality. there may be many days that we don't learn as much as we can, and if pushed to the wall, all of us would admit that we could be learning more. But we're not. <BR><BR>Why is this? If we claim to truly value Torah, if we admit to its vitality in our lives, how is it that we just don't seem to be learning as much as we know we can. <BR><BR>This explores the true motivations to learn and offers some insightful perspectives on increasing our involvement in learning Torah.]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Fri, 04 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#166: Everybody is doing it</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/166.mp3" length="14747035" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[We live in times when society at large has lost its moral compass. Particularly in the United States, once a bastion of family values and morality, we now watch daily as new innovations in decadence and promiscuity pour forth. We can't open a newspaper without being exposed to a new depth of moral decay. Ideas, concepts, and images that wouldn't have been accepted in the most base of publications a generation ago are now common place in the most respected ones. <BR><BR>We may be tempted to assume that this doesn't affect us. After all, we are different. We don't buy into the culture of the times. And while we may feel self-assured and secure in our position, the reality is that we are human, so it can't help but affect us. <BR><BR>The question is: what can we do about it?<BR><BR>This Shmuz explores the influence that society has upon us, and offers practical insights to deal with it. .]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#165 The Art Of</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/165.mp3" length="27734" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 02 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#164 I Hate Critic</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/164.mp3" length="27734" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Info coming soon.. ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Tue, 01 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#163 Only the Good Die Young</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/163.mp3" length="27734" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Is there an explanation for a woman in her mid-thirties, the mother of four children, to be struck down by cancer? <BR><BR>Does it make sense that a forty-year-old should take a jump shot on a basketball court and die in mid-air? <BR><BR>It seems that we are witnessing more and more young people dying. The question is: why? This Shmuz focusing on understanding the reason behind all human suffering. <BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 31 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#162 Learning to Care</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/162.mp3" length="27734" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Of course, he's a nice guy. Everyone is a nice guy. Yet how do you explain all of the pettiness and downright nasty things that people do to one another on an ongoing basis? <BR><BR>This Shmuz focuses us on one of the most important functions in a human: learning to truly care about another human being and sharing his plight. <BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 30 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#161 - April 15th: The Test of Emunah</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/161.mp3" length="22970642" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[To most of us, April 15th is nothing more than a deadline for filing our personal taxes. But when a person begins thinking about life from a broader perspective, they come to recognize that April 15th is a great test -- It is a test of my beliefs in practice. Do I truly believe that HASHEM runs this world and not I? Do I truly believe that HASHEM determines how much money I am to make this year? Do I somehow believe that I will only get that amount if I bend the rules a bit?<BR><BR>And the final test comes when I sign on the words:<BR><BR>"Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined this return and accompanying schedules and statements, and to the best of my knowledge and belief, they are true, correct, and complete."<BR><BR>Then I face the challenge: Do my actions fit my beliefs?<BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 29 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#160 - Purim: Sheep to the Slaughter and Concert Bans</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/160.mp3" length="23875304" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P><FONT size=2>When Adar enters we increase Joy. Yet how can we be happy when we live in such troubling times? From rockets falling daily on S'derot, to&nbsp;<SPAN class=visible id=wholedescr>the brutal massacre of 8 of our Yeshiva Bochurim in Yeshivat Merkas HaRav -- It has been difficult to feel joy. </SPAN></FONT</P><P><FONT size=2><SPAN class=visible>In the midst of it all many are troubled by the recent ban by Gadolim on a concert in America. </SPAN></FONT</P><P><FONT size=2><SPAN class=visible>This Shmuz attempts to make sense of the events we are living through, and offers a perspective on our times.&nbsp;</SPAN></FONT></P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Fri, 28 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#159 - 212 Degrees - Just One Degree Hotter</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.Com</link>
<author>Rabbi B, Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/159.mp3" length="23943109" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Info coming soon, iy"H. ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 27 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#158 -Me & My Big Mouth</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/158.mp3" length="18603769" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 26 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#157 - Learning to Love Learning</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi. B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/157.mp3" length="27734" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Shmuz info coming soon...buts its a really good Shmuz! <BR>Be well everyone.<BR>-Yechiel]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Tue, 25 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#156 - Get Out of Debt</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/156.mp3" length="25472423" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Shmuz Info Coming Soon... ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 24 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#155 - Chanuka: Flexi-dox Judaism</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/155.mp3" length="21637896" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Sorry, Shmuz info coming soon.<BR> ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 23 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#154 - PART II Marriage: A Work in Progress</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/154.mp3" length="24460425" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>Each one of us stands under the chuppah starry-eyed, knowing full well that we have found eternal love and bliss</P><P>Yet, something happens between that moment and real life. The reality is that getting married is easy, but staying married isn't . <BR><BR>This Shmuz is Part II of a Marriage series that deals with the essential of creating long lasting Shalom Bayis</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 22 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#153 - Marriage: A Work in Progress</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/153.mp3" length="26710912" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Each one of us stands under the chuppah starry-eyed, knowing full well that we have found eternal love and bliss.<BR>Yet, something happens between that moment and real life. The reality is that getting married is easy, but staying married isn't . <BR><BR>This Shmuz is Part I of a Marriage series that deals with the essential of creating long lasting Shalom Bayis.<BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Fri, 21 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#152 - In G-d's Image</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/152.mp3" length="18859638" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Shmuz Info Coming Soon... ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 20 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#151 - Be Bold, Be Brave</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/151.mp3" length="20127637" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>All the great leaders and teachers of the Jewish Nation had faults and flaws. The Torah tells us the shortcomings of Avrohom, Dovid, and Shlomo. More amazingly, the Gemarah tells us that the four men who never sinned aren't counted amongst the greatest of our nation. Why?</P><P>The reason is simple. HASHEM didn't put us on the planet not to sin. HASHEM created us to act - to accomplish, to change ourselves, to change our world. To do this, we need to stand up for what is right, despite the odds, despite what others will say or think. But where does a person get the courageand strength to do just that: to be bold and be brave?</P><P>This Shmuz introduces us to one of the basic life outlooks necessary for a person to reach his potential. <BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 19 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#150 - Being a Religious Atheist</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/150.mp3" length="19336356" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>An atheist is someone who doesnt believe in G-d. A religious person is someone who practices a lifestyle that serves G-d. It would therefore seem obvious that being a religious atheist would be a contradiction in terms. Yet not only isnt this correct, the phenomenon of religious atheists is far more prevalent than we realize.</P><P>This Shmuz focuses us on some of the bedrock foundations of our religion and some of the strange experiences that result from living a life unexamined.</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Tue, 18 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#149 - The System of Tshuvah</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/149.mp3" length="22542088" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>We know that Tshuvah works. The Nivim told us it does, Chazal repeat it many, many times, and we even have Yom Kippur, a day created specifically for tshuvah. The question isn't whether Tshuvah works, but why I don't make use of it?</P><P>Why is it that I don't stand there on Yom Kippur with tears flowing down my face, repenting, improving, ridding myself of a year's worth of iniquities? It isn't that I don't want to. It isn't even that I don't believe in it. It just seems that I don't feel a need to repent.</P><P>This Shmuz focuses on the motivation to do Tshuvah and the different parts of the Tshuvah process. <BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 17 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#148 - Rich, Richer, Richest - How to be Wealthy</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/148.mp3" length="23355646" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>Hot, hotter, hottest. Fast, faster, fastest. In the English language we distinguish between the adjective, a descriptive word, and the superlative, an adjective taken to its extreme. Yet when we think about wealth, that distinction somehow gets lost. If I am not as rich as Bill Gates, then I am not rich.</P><P>While the Torah does not guarantee that any individual will be wealthy, it does offer a tried and true formula for a person to enjoy riches in this world.</P><P>This Shmuz focuses on the concept of wealth, appreciation and the concept of being rich. <BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 16 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#147 - Finding G-d</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/147.mp3" length="20880515" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>On 12 April 1961, Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin became the first man in space. Upon his return, he made the famous statement, I have proven that G-d doesnt exist I was in heaven, and I didn't see any God up there."</P><P>While we may find his logic simple minded, in reality, he makes a valid point. How can the Torah expect us to believe in something that all of our senses deny? We relate to the world through our five senses, yet none of them can perceive the presence of HASHEM. How can a person be expected to see HASHEM when everything he experiences clearly denies HASHEM existence?</P><P>This Shmuz focuses on how we can come to see HASHEM clearly and experience His presence in our lives. <BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 15 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#146 - The Impact of One Mitzvah</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/146.mp3" length="19687545" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[I do daven with a minyan. I don't. I do a chesed -- I don't. Does it really matter? Does it really make a difference? Very often we find ourselves thinking what is the big deal? Will my actions really change my life? Will they change my world? <BR><BR>Yet every once in a while, we come across a sing]]>
<![CDATA[le action that does change the world-- a shot heard around the world. Our natural assumption is that these types of acts are relegated to singular people, living in highly unusual times and circumstance. Yet, Chazal have a different appreciation of the value of a single act. From their vantage point a single mitzvah, accomplished by an ordinary person, is so important, that it exceeds anything we could ever imagine. <BR><BR>The question is why? What is the big deal? After all said and done, it was only one Mitzvah, it's not like the entire universe: heaven and earth, are dependent upon that one act.<BR><BR>Using HASHEM's answer to, why Nevuchadneser merited becoming one of the most powerful kings in history, as a backdrop, this Shmuz helps us enter Chazal's world view of the impact of even one Mitzvah.]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Fri, 14 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#145 - Stages of Change Part III Taking Action</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/145.mp3" length="21971491" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>When a person recognizes that he needs to lose weight, it isn't enough for him to read all the latest diet books and find a great plan - the person has to actually "do it." He has to go on that diet and stick to it. But "doing it" requires motivation, not just the initial motivation to begin, but long-lasting motivation that will withstand the tests of life, allowing changes in behavior to become permanent. Why is it that some people are able to maintain that positive focus and other aren't? Are there techniques for "getting motivated", and maintaining that sense of empowerment?<BR>&nbsp;<BR>This issue is especially relevant to us, the Chosen Nation. Our mandate is not only to change damaging personal habits, but to change our very nature, our character traits, and our approaches to life -- the types of spouses we are, the types of parents we are, the type of human beings we are.&nbsp; To do this, we must have a constant source of motivation and drive. Changing our very nature is difficult work. Where does this drive come from? How can we stay that motivated throughout life?<BR>&nbsp;<BR>In this third part of a three-part series on the mechanisms of change, we focus on using moments of inspiration and learn how to lock them in, so that we give ourselves the constant source of inspiration needed for change. <BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 13 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#144 - Stages of Change Part II Support Groups</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B, Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/144.mp3" length="18185382" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<FONT color=#000000>Recent studies show that in 2004, <SPAN>&nbsp;</SPAN>there were an estimated 44.5 million adult smokers in the United States, and 70% of them want to quit. Each year, 35% do attempt to stop, <SPAN>&nbsp;</SPAN>yet only 5% succeed -- clearly change isn't easy. Willpower alone isn't enough. A good program for change alone isn't enough. To make change permanent, we need outside help. Support groups are successful for this very reason. <SPAN>&nbsp;</SPAN>Weight Watchers reports that people who attend meetings lose <SPAN>&nbsp;</SPAN>three times as much weight as those who don't. Same program, same motivation. The only difference <SPAN>&nbsp;</SPAN>is the social component of support. </FONT><DIV>&nbsp;</DIV><SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","\n\u003cdiv\>\u003c/div\>\u003c/font\>\u003cfont color\u003d\"#000000\"\>\u003cfont face\u003d\"Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif\"\>Our goal as the Chosen Nation is not only to change destructive personal habits, but to change our very natures, our character traits, and our approaches to life -- the type of spouses we are, the type of parents we are, the type of human beings we. Clearly it is a formidable challenge- one that we were given a lifetime to tackle. And \u003cspan\> \u003c/span\>provided we have the motivation, systems and knowledge of how to change, we can accomplish it.\u003c/font\>\u003cspan\>\u003cfont face\u003d\"Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif\"\> \u003c/font\>\n\u003cdiv\> \u003c/div\>\u003c/span\>\u003c/font\>\u003c/div\>\n\u003cdiv\>\u003cfont color\u003d\"#000000\" face\u003d\"Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif\"\>In this second \u003cspan\> \u003c/span\>of a three part series on the mechanisms of change, we focus on \u003c/font\>\u003ca\>\u003cfont color\u003d\"#000000\"\>\u003cfont face\u003d\"Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif\"\>\u003cspan\> \u003c/span\>how support systems function\u003c/font\>\u003c/font\>\u003c/a\>\u003cfont face\u003d\"Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif\"\>\u003cfont size\u003d\"2\"\>\u003cspan style\u003d\"font-size:8pt;line-height:115%\"\>\u003cspan\>\u003cspan\>\u003cfont color\u003d\"#000000\"\> \u003c/font\>\u003c/span\>\u003c/span\>\u003c/span\>\u003cfont color\u003d\"#000000\"\>and how important they are in making change permanent. \u003c/font\>\u003c/font\>\u003c/font\>\u003c/div\>\u003cbr\>\u003cfont color\u003d\"#000000\"\>\u003cfont face\u003d\"Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif\"\>\u003cu\>\u003cstrong\>CDS For Shmuz #144 are Sponsored:\u003c/strong\>\u003c/u\> \u003c/font\>\n\u003cdiv\>\n\u003cdiv style\u003d\"font-size:12pt;font-family:times new roman,new york,times,serif\"\>\u003cfont face\u003d\"Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif\"\>\u003cfont size\u003d\"2\"\>\u003cstrong\>LiZecher Nishmas:\u003cbr\>\u003c/strong\>Maras Rivka bas Harav Shmuel \u003c/font\>\u003c/font\>\u003c/div\>\n\u003cdiv style\u003d\"font-size:12pt;font-family:times new roman,new york,times,serif\"\>\u003cfont size\u003d\"2\" face\u003d\"Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif\"\>Harav Yosef Chaim ben Harav Aharon Hacohen \u003c/font\>\u003c/div\>\u003c/div\>\u003c/font\>\u003c/div\>\u003c/div\>\u003cfont style\u003d\"font-weight:normal;font-size:10pt;color:#000000;font-style:normal;font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif\" color\u003d\"#000000\" face\u003d\"Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif\"\>\n\u003cp\>\u003c/p\>\u003c/font\>\u003cstrong\>\u003cu\>TIME:\u003c/u\> \u003cbr\>Refreshments at 8:30, The Shmuz at 8:45 \u003cbr\>followed by Maariv.\u003cbr\>\u003c/strong\>\n\u003cdiv\>\n\u003cdiv\> \u003c/div\>\u003cstrong\>",1]);//--></SCRIPT><DIV><FONT color=#000000></FONT></DIV><FONT face=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif color=#000000>Our goal as the Chosen Nation is not only to change destructive personal habits, but to change our very natures, our character traits, and our approaches to life -- the type of spouses we are, the type of parents we are, the type of human beings we. Clearly it is a formidable challenge- one that we were given a lifetime to tackle. And <SPAN>&nbsp;</SPAN>provided we have the motivation, systems and knowledge of how to change, we can accomplish it.</FONT><SPAN><FONT face=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif color=#000000>&nbsp; </FONT><DIV>&nbsp;</DIV></SPAN><DIV><FONT face=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif color=#000000>In this second <SPAN>&nbsp;</SPAN>of a three part series on the mechanisms of change, we focus on </FONT><A><FONT color=#000000><FONT face=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif><SPAN>&nbsp;</SPAN>how support systems function</FONT></FONT></A><FONT face=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif><FONT size=2><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; FONT-SIZE: 8pt"><SPAN><SPAN><FONT color=#000000>&nbsp;</FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><FONT color=#000000>and how important they are in making change permanent. </FONT></FONT></FONT></DIV><DIV><BR>&nbsp;</DIV>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 12 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#143- Stages of Change Part I Denial</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/143.mp3" length="24447454" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[The Vilna Gaon tells us that the main reason for life is to change our middos -"If not" he says, "Why should a person have life?" <DIV><FONT face=Calibri><DIV>&nbsp;</DIV>The difficulty with this mandate is that it means: I have to change. While in theory I may be open to grow -- I may even recognize the many advantage to my life, in practice we humans find it very difficult to change.&nbsp; Ask a person who has smoked for 20 years, "How easy it is to change?" Ask a person who is 40 lbs overweight, "Don't you want to lose weight?" The reality is that even when we recognize the need to change, actually carrying out the process seems to be a daunting task-and it's not just about willpower. </FONT></DIV><DIV><FONT face=Calibri><DIV>&nbsp;</DIV>This is part one of a series of Shmuzin, focusing on the <U>dynamics</U> of change.&nbsp; Whether my aim is to stop: gambling, over eating, drinking, or improving my character traits; by understanding the different stages, techniques and mental states, that are a necessary part of change, we can be more successful at attaining our goals. </FONT></DIV>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Tue, 11 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#142 - The Power of Laughter</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/142.mp3" length="18219145" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<DIV><FONT face=Calibri>There are certain life lessons that they don't teach you in school. One of them is the importance of maintaining a sense of humor. </FONT></DIV><P><FONT face=Calibri>&nbsp;Not only is this one of the key elements for maintaining a sense of balance and joy as we travel through the trials of life, in terms of our relationships with others, a light touch often spells the difference between harmony and strife-love and hate. </FONT</P><P><FONT face=Calibri>Focusing on the adage that "He who laughs, lasts.. .." this Shmuz underscores the power of laughter -- a force that improperly used, can cause much harm, but properly utilized is one of the keys to leading a successful life.</FONT</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 10 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#141 - Parenting Part IV - Sibling Rivalry</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/141.mp3" length="23275690" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Since the time of Kain and Hevel, it seems a given that brothers fight. Even in the most refined home, where individuals are polite and respectful, siblings take liberties with each other that they wouldn't dare take with outsiders- it is almost as if an unwritten law permits the torture of siblings. What is even more surprising is that individuals we know, good people, who outside the home are so courteous and caring, act very differently when they are amongst their closest family --&nbsp;&nbsp; What is even more shocking is when those "People", turn out to be you and I. <P><FONT face=Calibri>The question is why? Why does the very closeness and attachment we share with family bring out contention, and what can we do about it? </FONT</P><P><FONT face=Calibri size=3><FONT size=2><SPAN id=st name="st" >This</SPAN> <SPAN id=st name="st" >Shmuz</SPAN> explores some of the forces that drive sibling rivalry, and offers strategies to deal with it, whether in the role of parents or sibling.<BR> </FONT></FONT</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 09 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#140 - The Arabs and The Jews</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/140.mp3" length="24628687" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P><FONT face=Calibri>The Palestinians have aspirations of political freedom as do every people. Their requests are merely of sovereignty and political rights-- and of course, once they have been granted these, they will live in harmony with their neighbors, recognizing Israel's right to peaceful coexistence. Or will they? </FONT</P><P><FONT face=Calibri>An opened minded view of the current situation brings grave doubts to the true desires of the Arabs in general and the Palestinians in particular. This Shmuz focuses on some of the underlying causes of the Arab's attitude towards the Jews, and why Western Culture has such difficulty relating to the core issue. </FONT</P><P><FONT size=1><FONT face=Calibri><FONT size=2><U>WARNING</U>: If your worldview is shaped by CNN you will find this Shmuz disconcerting.</FONT> </FONT></FONT</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 08 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#139 - The Power of Speech</title>
<link>Rabbi B. Shafier</link>
<author>www.The Shmuz.com</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/139.mp3" length="21874184" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P><STRONG>We know that the Torah is very exacting in regards to Loshon Horah: there are 17 negative and 14 positive commandments concerning disparaging speech.&nbsp; In fact, the Rambam paskens like the Gemara, that the sin of Loshon Horah is worse than the sins of Idol worship; illicit relations, and bloodshed. The question is why? Of all of our activities why does the Torah see fit that this one should be dealt with so severely? What is so egregious, so horrific? After all its only words.. ..</STRONG</P><P><STRONG>This Shmuz deals with the Torah's view of the power of the spoken word, and its effect on human relationships.<BR><BR> </STRONG><BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Fri, 07 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#138 - The Potential and The Present</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/138.mp3" length="24011332" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P><FONT face="Times New Roman" size=3><I>"Considering where I come from and what I've been through, I'm doing pretty well..."</I> While this may be a comforting position to take, the question a person must ask themselves is: <U>is this really all that I can be?</U> What if I were to stop making excuses? What if I was to truly hold myself accountable to live up to my potential? What if I was to go full blast - how great could I be? </FONT</P><P><FONT face="Times New Roman" size=3>This question is essential for growth, but it is also one of our greatest pitfalls. If we don't clearly see how much we are capable of, we cannot chart the course toward our potential. However, with a realistic view of where we are now and a clear understanding of what we could become might lead to depression. </FONT</P><P><FONT face="Times New Roman" size=3>This Shmuz focuses us on maintaining a balance between the two views needed for steady growth: a clear understanding of where we are now and a vivid image of what we can be, even if we won't reach those levels for many, many years. </FONT</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 06 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#137 - Being Sensitive</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/137.mp3" length="19054578" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: Arial; FONT-SIZE: 9.5pt"><FONT color=#000000>Almost all of the people that we deal with are reasonable, well intentioned individuals. And so too, am I. Yet, in the course of life, there is conflict, hurtful words, vengeful acts And, in that rare moment of self honesty, I realize that everything that happens isn't the "other guys fault". I too, am to blame. There have been situations where I acted in a manner that was cold and callous. There have been times when I acted with cruelty and malice. &nbsp;The question is why? It's not that I am not a nice guy, I know I am. Yet there are times when that's not the way I act. The question is why would a nice, caring individual act in a manner very inconsistent with that image? And more significantly what can I do about it?<o:p></O:P></FONT></SPAN</P><P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: Arial; FONT-SIZE: 9.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA"><FONT color=#000000>This Shmuz focuses us on one of the keys to growing in all human relationships: learning to focus on the <B>Inner Condition</B> how people actually feel, and learning to ignore the <B>Outer Condition</B> the show that people put on to hide what is actually going on in their heart.</FONT></SPAN</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 05 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#136 - I'm Never Wrong</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/136.mp3" length="27048080" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P><FONT style="FONT-STYLE: normal; FONT-FAMILY: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; COLOR: #000000; FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-WEIGHT: normal" face=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif color=#000000 size=2>There is much truth in the adage: There are three sides to every story, your side, my side and the truth. And, even though I fully understand that you might be making a valid point, as soon as we get into an argument, I can no longer even see your side because, of course, I'm right. <BR><BR>Why is that? We all make mistakes. That is part of being human. And while I certainly can accept that you make mistakes, it becomes very difficult to accept that I may be wrong. In theory I accept that as a human I err, but when it comes down to real life situations, I just seem never to be wrong. <BR><BR>This Shmuz focuses on <U>why</U> it is that we humans have a blind spot when it comes to seeing our own faults, and helps us with some techniques to change that natural propensity.</FONT></P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Tue, 04 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#135 - Imagination: The Devils Playground</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/135.mp3" length="21068172" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P><FONT style="FONT-STYLE: normal; FONT-FAMILY: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; COLOR: #000000; FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-WEIGHT: normal" face=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif color=#000000 size=2>Eleanor Roosevelt has been credited with saying, "No one can make you feel inferior without your consent." The reality is that most of the battles that we fight are based on complex constructions -- created by us. Whether they be issues of misunderstanding other's motives, or our fight with passions and desire, or understanding our place in the universe - our fights and battles are very real to us. <BR><BR>Yet, when you try to explain them to others we often find, many people can't even identify with the challenge nor understand the temptation. <BR><BR>This Shmuz focuses on the fight of our generation, and the very powerful psychological forces that help create the fever- pitched battle that it is.</FONT></P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 03 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#134 - PARENTING 103: Setting Limits</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/134.mp3" length="20094586" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P><FONT face="Times New Roman" size=3>If you were to poll our community, the average parent would admit we probably give our children too much. And while this sentiment may not be clearly spoken out by young parents, once children hit the teen age years, most parents upon reflection would say : I wish we had been more firm with them when they were younger; Weve probably spoiled them; They would have been better off, had they not be given quite so much </FONT>&nbsp;<BR</P><P><FONT face="Times New Roman" size=3>We live in permissive times, and parents seem almost afraid to say the word <U>no</U> to their children. Yet intuitively, we understand that we are injuring our children by not being firm, by not setting limits, and following through with consequences when they go past those limits. The challenge for parents is to find the balance between letting our children know that we love them unconditionally and setting limits and educating them in our expectations. </FONT>&nbsp;<BR</P><P><FONT face="Times New Roman" size=3>Using the backdrop of some of the most famous personalities in all of history for reference, the Medrash presents to us some of the foundations of effective parenting. </FONT>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 02 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#133 - ReJEWvinate</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/133.mp3" length="11999107" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[One of the tools of highly successful people is the ability to stay focused and motivated over long periods of time. Whether in sports, academics, or business, the effort and consistency needed to accomplish long term goalsrequires a high level of motivation and the ability to renew excitement and enthusiasm. Often the difference between a person who reaches great heights and a person who doesn't is the persons self awareness and ability to marshal the inner resources to stay on top of the game. In religion, , we also need the same set of skills to maintain a high level of enthusiasm and focus to prevent our daily actions from becoming merely robotic. <BR><BR><BR>In this Shmuz we are focused on one of the Torah's techniques for staying motivated-- ReJewvinating. <BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 01 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#132 - PURIM: Being Human</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/132.mp3" length="13090626" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<FONT color=#000000 size=2>One of the most difficult character traits to work on is humility. Not only is it considered the most pervasive of the all of the middos, it is the most misunderstood. On one hand, we are obligated to appreciate the greatness of the human, yet on the other, we must remain humble. <BR><BR>One technique to help identify the trait and its pathology is to see it in its extreme. Using the story of Megillas Esther as a backdrop, and particularly some of foibles of Haman, we are able to witness arrogance in its extreme, and thereby find its cure: the understanding that I am a human.<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","<br><br>\nThis is a highly recommended Shmuz for working on \nthe trait of humility, as well as a good preparation for \nPurim.</font>\n</p>\n \n <p>\n <font color\u003d\"#333333\" face\u003d\"Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif\" size\u003d\"2\" style\u003d\"font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:10pt;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;color:#333333\"><b><u>The CDs For Shmuz #132 is \nSponsored:</u></b><br>\nIn Honor of Ariel &amp; Ranit Kutler of Springfield NJ for the \nbirth and Bris of their new son Chaim.</font>\n</p>\n \n <p>\n <font color\u003d\"#0000CC\" face\u003d\"Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif\" size\u003d\"2\" style\u003d\"font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:10pt;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;color:#0000CC\"><u><b>CD Sponsors Are Always Appreciated!</b> \n</u><br>\n\nIf you are interested in sponsoring The Shmuz, CDs \nor \nrefreshments for any Shmuz, please email \n<a href\u003d\"mailto:[email protected]\" target\u003d\"_blank\" onclick\u003d\"return top.js.OpenExtLink(window,event,this)\"> \[email protected]</a>, or call 866-613-TORAH</font>\n</p>\n \n <p>\n <font color\u003d\"#333333\" face\u003d\"Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif\" size\u003d\"2\" style\u003d\"font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:10pt;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;color:#333333\"><b><u>TIME:</u></b> <br>Refreshments at 8:30, The \nShmuz at \n8:45 followed by Maariv.<br><br>\n\n<b><u>LOCATION:</u></b> <br>Rabbi Rudinsky&#39;s \nShul - <a href\u003d\"http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t\u003dgiixd6bab.0.e9aun9bab.95qsntbab.787&amp;ts\u003dS0234&amp;p\u003dhttp%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2Fmaps%3Ff%3Dq%26hl%3Den%26q%3DParker%2BBlvd%2Band%2BForshay%2C%2BMonsey%2C%2BNY%26ie%3DUTF8%26om%3D1%26z%3D15%26ll%3D41.147186%2C-74.085145%26spn%3D0.014219%2C0.037165%26iwloc%3Daddr\" target\u003d\"_blank\" onclick\u003d\"return top.js.OpenExtLink(window,event,this)\"> \nCorner of Parker &amp; Forshay",1]);//--></SCRIPT> <BR><BR>This is a highly recommended Shmuz for working on the trait of humility, as well as a good preparation for Purim.</FONT>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Fri, 30 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#131 - Working For A Living</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/131.mp3" length="10832789" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[We know that we were put on this planet for a few short years, to shape ourselves into who we will be for eternity. HASHEM has created this world specifically to give us the chance to mold our inner essence. We also know that the Torah and its mitzvahs are the greatest vehicles of self perfection. If so, one of the questions that a thinking person must ask themselves is, why do we need work? HASHEM is quite capable of creating a world where all of man's needs are met. Yet, not only do we labor, it seems that majority of our life is spent earning a living. Why would HASHEM want that to be? If the entire purpose of life is to allow us to grow in spirituality, wouldn't those goals have been better met by putting us in a world where all of our physical needs were met, and then we would have the time and energy to focus on perfecting ourselves? <BR><BR>This Shmuz addresses one of the most basic questions a Jew must ask himself: Why does HASHEM want us to work for a living? <BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 29 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#130 - Living With Bitachon</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/130.mp3" length="10712444" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<FONT color=#000000 size=2>We know that everything is from HASHEM. We also know that we must do our part-- our Hishtadlus. In theory it is easy to find the balance-- I must act in the way of the world, yet knowing all the while that HASHEM runs everything. One of the great challenges of life is actually personifying that tightrope walk between Bitachon and proper Hishtadlus. <BR><BR>How hard should I be working? How seriously should I take the medical reports and new findings? When is it appropriate for me to say, "I have done my part, now it is in HASHEM's hands"? <BR><BR>Drawing on some very inspiring examples of perfect Bitachon, this Shmuz helps us put our belief system into practice.</FONT>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 28 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#129 - HaKaras HaTov: Recognizing the Good</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/129.mp3" length="12817182" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Shmuz INfo Coming Soon.... ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Tue, 27 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#128 - Kiruv: The Message & The Medium</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/128.mp3" length="12817182" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[In 1996 Gordon and Horowitz published a study entitled Will your grandchildren be Jewish? Their conclusion: if one were to view the Jewish Nation as a totality, based on ever decreasing birth rates and skyrocketing intermarriage rates, the odds of any Jews being left by the end of the 21 st century are slim to none. <BR><BR>However, one category stands out in stark relief -- the Orthodox. Based on their average birth rate of between 4-6 children per family, and their intermarriage rate of less than 3%, they are burgeoning and ever increasing. We should expect that by the end of this century the Jewish Nation will be alive and vibrant, however strictly Orthodox. The only question that remains is of those Jews alive today: How many will make it themselves, and how many of their grandchildren will be Jewish. <BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 26 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#127 - Breaking The Forces of Habits</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/127.mp3" length="11910696" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>We are creatures of habit -- we act by habit, we react by habit and, to a large extent, we even think by habit. And, in truth, it has to be that way. If we didn't act based on previously established patterns of behavior, life would be unmanageable. If every time we turned a corner we would have to think through the actions involved, our entire mind's focus would be on navigating the basics of living, with no upper brain room left for thinking. For that reason, HASHEM gave us this ability to put things on auto pilot, doing many activities without even giving them a second thought, thereby leaving us the ability to free our mind for more important things</P><P>While this reality is a fact of life, it also brings us face to face with one of the core realities of growth: our habits determine who we are and what we become. Assuming that some of my habits are in my best interest and some aren't, the question then becomes, "How do I change"</P><P>This Shmuz helps us identify those habits that affect us, and then defines the strategies necessary to change them.<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","<span> </span><span> </span</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this Shmuz we are introduced to the vital obligation upon\nevery Jew to be involved in Kiruv, and some practical understandings as to how\neasy it for everyone, not just the Kiruv professional, to have a profound\neffect on the people around us. <span> </span</p>\n\n\n",0]);D(["ma",[1,"<table class\u003datt cellspacing\u003d0 cellpadding\u003d5 border\u003d0><tr><td><table cellspacing\u003d0 cellpadding\u003d0><tr><td><img width\u003d16 height\u003d16 src\u003d\"/mail/images/doc.gif\"><td width\u003d7><td><b>Shmuz #128 &nbsp;Handout.doc</b><br>31K <a target\u003d_blank href\u003d\"/mail/?realattid\u003df_ex941htl&attid\u003d0.1&disp\u003dvah&view\u003datt&th\u003d1104a9ee2ab2ad6a\">View as HTML</a> Scanning for viruses...</table>105</table>","1104a9ee2ab2ad6a"> );D(["mi",8,2,"1104aa0c205be84b",0,"0","YechielZlotnick","Yechiel","[email protected]",<],<"B","[email protected]","1104aa0c205be84b">,[>,"Jan 22 (1 day ago)",["B Shafier <[email protected]>"],[],[],[],"Jan 22, 2007 11:25 AM","Re: Blurbs","",[],1,,,"Mon Jan 22 2007_11:25 AM","On 1/22/07, Yechiel Zlotnick <[email protected]> wrote:","On 1/22/07, <b class\u003dgmail_sendername>Yechiel Zlotnick</b> &lt;[email protected]&gt; wrote:","gmail.com",,,"","",0,,"<[email protected]>",0,,0,"In reply to \"Blurbs\"",0]);D(["mb","thanks very much<br><br>\n<div>",1]);//--></SCRIPT> <SPAN>&nbsp;</SPAN><SPAN>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </SPAN</P><P>In this Shmuz we are introduced to the vital obligation upon every Jew to be involved in Kiruv, and some practical understandings as to how easy it for everyone, not just the Kiruv professional, to have a profound effect on the people around us</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 25 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#126 - Dignity of Man</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/126.mp3" length="13276502" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<STRONG><P><FONT style="FONT-STYLE: normal; FONT-FAMILY: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; COLOR: #000000; FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-WEIGHT: normal" face=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif color=#000000 size=2>While there is much talk today about the importance of self esteem and its effect on a person's attitudes and accomplishments, there is a corollary benefit of understanding the greatness of man -- If I am obligated to respect myself because I was created in the image of HASHEM, then so too, I must respect you, because you also were created in that same image. In fact, Ben Azzai teaches us that if a person wants to improve his interpersonal relationships, a concept that will help him even more than <I>Loving one's neighbor as oneself</I>, is this understanding that <I>All men are created in the image of HASHEM</I>. <BR><BR>This Shmuz focuses us on the Torah's view of the true dignity of man, and the profound effect that this concept has on our lives.</FONT></P></STRONG>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 24 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#125 - Business Ethics</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/125.mp3" length="13608740" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<FONT color=#000000 size=2>HASHEM created man with an innate sense of morality and an inborn need to do what is right and proper. One of the difficulties of acting ethically is that in the slippery slope of life that sense of right and wrong becomes dulled. It seems that in the business world this is more clearly felt, where the lines between what is considered honest and moral, and what isn't, quickly get blurred. <BR><BR>In the post Enron era, when much of the business community is checking its moral compass, isn't it time for us, The Chosen Nation, to make sure that we are living our lives in accordance with the Torah's standards? <BR><BR>In this Shmuz we are introduced to an overview of what the Torah considers the ethical approach for business dealings, and how to conduct our day to day affairs.</FONT>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Fri, 23 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#124 - Life is Like a Box of Chocolates</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/124.mp3" length="13388760" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>Do you ever get the sense that there is always something going on -- If it's not one thing it's another. Just when you have finally gotten one area of your life under control, from out of nowhere a whole new issue, a whole new problem, or a whole new crisis pops up -- and now a completely different set of difficulties have to be dealt with. Why is this? Why can't life just be simple? Why can't HASHEM just allow me to go about my business, work on myself, and use this life for its intended purpose? <BR><BR>In this Shmuz we are introduced to a perspective on the various situations that befall a person, and why in fact they are a necessary, integral, part of life. <BR><BR>A highly recommended Shmuz for understanding life, and the point of view necessary to make sense out of the "things" that just seem to keep on happening.</P><P>&nbsp</P><P>podcas</P><P>&nbsp</P><P></P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 22 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#123- Chanukah - Whose Side Are You On?</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/123.mp3" length="13793093" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<FONT color=#333333 size=2>Chanukah centers on the ideological battle of two cultures: The hedonistic Yevanim (Greek / Syrian) Culture waging war against the Torah ideals -- the battle not being fought for the physical survival of the Jewish nation, but rather for its ideology and way of life. <BR><BR>We, today, live in very different times. We are no longer downtrodden and subjugated to oppressive regimes -- we are free to choose our lifestyle. And so, not only does Torah learning flourish at unprecedented levels, we have also created our own insular culture, and the Jewish nation even in exile, has fashioned its own way of life. We have our own neighborhoods and schools, we have our own shopping districts and clothing styles, we even have our own novels, music and daily newspapers. So it seems that we have won the cultural war - there are no Yevanim influences in our world -- and as such the message of Chanukah has little to offer us. Unfortunately, this rosy picture is far from reality. <BR><BR>This Shmuz explores some of the inroads that "foreign ways" have found even into the finest Torah homes, and identifies the ideological battleground of our time.<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","</font>\n</p>\n \n <p>\n <font color\u003d\"#3300CC\" face\u003d\"Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif\" size\u003d\"2\" style\u003d\"font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:10pt;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;color:#3300CC\"><u><b>CDS For Shmuz #123 Are available For \nSponsorship</b></u></font>\n</p>\n \n <p>\n <font color\u003d\"#000000\" face\u003d\"Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif\" size\u003d\"2\" style\u003d\"font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:10pt;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;color:#000000\"><u><b>Sponsorships are available:</b></u> If you \nare available to sponsor The Shmuz, CDs or \nrefreshments for any Shmuz, please email <a href\u003d\"mailto:[email protected]\" target\u003d\"_blank\" onclick\u003d\"return top.js.OpenExtLink(window,event,this)\"> \[email protected]</a>, or call 866-613-\nTORAH<br><br>\n\n<b><u>TIME:</u></b> <br>Refreshments 8:30, \nMaariv 8:45, followed by The Shmuz<br><br>\n\n<b><u>LOCATION:</u></b> <br>Yeshivas Tiferes \nYisroel - <a href\u003d\"http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t\u003dwzhdz9bab.0.b8t7s9bab.95qsntbab.787&amp;ts\u003dS0220&amp;p\u003dhttp%3A%2F%2Fmaps.google.com%2Fmaps%3Fnum%3D20%26hl%3Den%26q%3DE%2B35th%2BSt%2B%2526%2BAvenue%2BL%2C%2BBrooklyn%2C%2BNY%2B11210%26ie%3DUTF8%26oe%3DUTF-8%26om%3D1%26t%3Dh%26z%3D17%26ll%3D40.623041%2C-73.941185%26spn%3D0.003583%2C0.01075%26iwloc%3Daddr\" target\u003d\"_blank\" onclick\u003d\"return top.js.OpenExtLink(window,event,this)\">East \n35th Between K &amp; L (Map)</a></font>\n</p>\n \n </font>\n \n\n </td>\n </tr>\n <tr>\n <td colspan\u003d\"3\" rowspan\u003d\"1\"><img height\u003d\"10\" src\u003d\"http://img.constantcontact.com/letters/images/spacer.gif\"></td>\n </tr>\n </table>\n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n <table border\u003d\"0\" cellpadding\u003d\"0\" cellspacing\u003d\"0\" width\u003d\"380\">",1]);//--></SCRIPT> </FONT>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 21 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#122 - Parenting 102</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/122.mp3" length="14415424" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[For thousands of years parenting was a pretty straight forward responsibility. Society offered very structured guidelines for behaviors and expectations: Adult's roles were well defined, children's roles were clearly delineated, and throughout the strata of the community everyone knew his place. In terms of practical parenting, new parents had their own parents as guideposts and role models, and the techniques to use were time tested and proven - to fit that world. <BR><BR>However, we live in very different times. We live in an open society. Man has social freedoms that never existed before, in terms of opportunities for education - social advancement - increase in income - where to live and what to do - there are almost no boundaries. Yet,&nbsp; this new found freedom comes with a cost: gone are the norms of social conduct, gone is the family structure, and gone are the role models for socially acceptable behaviors. And, so, we now find ourselves in uncharted waters in the role of parents, without having a clear and definitive path as to "how to parent".<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","</font></div>\n<div><font color\u003d\"#000000\" face\u003d\"Arial\" size\u003d\"2\"> </font><br>This Shmuz, the second on the topic of parenting, deals with\nthe primary role of the parent, and some practical &quot;how to&quot;s in term of\nfulfilling that role. \n\n<br></div>\n<div><font color\u003d\"#000000\" face\u003d\"Arial\" size\u003d\"2\"> </font></div></div>\n\n<br clear\u003d\"all\">\n\n",0]);D(["ma",[0,"<table class\u003datt cellspacing\u003d0 cellpadding\u003d5 border\u003d0><tr><td><table cellspacing\u003d0 cellpadding\u003d0><tr><td><a target\u003d_blank href\u003d\"/mail/?realattid\u003d0.1&attid\u003d0.1&disp\u003dattd&view\u003datt&th\u003d10f5325b4689f2dd\"><img width\u003d16 height\u003d16 src\u003d\"/mail/images/generic.gif\"></a><td width\u003d7><td><b>blurb 122.rtf</b><br>2K <a target\u003d_blank href\u003d\"/mail/?realattid\u003d0.1&attid\u003d0.1&disp\u003dvah&view\u003datt&th\u003d10f5325b4689f2dd\">View as HTML</a> <a href \u003d\"/mail/?realattid\u003d0.1&attid\u003d0.1&disp\u003dsafe&view\u003datt&th\u003d10f5325b4689f2dd\">Download</a> </table>99</table>","10f5325b4689f2dd">);D(["ce"]);//--></SCRIPT> <DIV><FONT face=Arial color=#000000 size=2></FONT><BR>This Shmuz, the second on the topic of parenting, deals with the primary role of the parent, and some practical "how to"s in term of fulfilling that role. <BR></DIV>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Tue, 20 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#121 - EMES - The Whole Truth</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/121.mp3" length="11873988" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>Politicians lie, lawyers lie, salesmen lie -- but we are honest, moral people and we don't lie... Unfortunately, the reality is that the world we live in affects us, and lies - sometimes little ones, sometimes bigger ones, tend to seep into and become part of our lives.</P><P><BR>Reb Yisroel Salanter defines lying as "Saying words with our mouth that our heart knows aren't true". Using this as our gauge of <EM>Emes,</EM> we may well find that we bend the truth a bit more often than we would care to admit.</P><P><BR>This Shmuz introduces us to the Torah's definition of <EM>Emes</EM>, and aids us in becoming more honest in all of our dealings.</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 19 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#120 - Thrift</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/120.mp3" length="13115683" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<DIV><FONT face=Arial color=#000000 size=2>Never before in the history of mankind, has so much been available to so many. Even in recent times the earning power and discretionary income of the average US citizen has increased dramatically. The typical American worker today earns far more than he did back in the 1950's. Yet, the rate of savings has decreased fourfold since that time. Even more troubling, consumer debt has increased exponentially (far outpacing the rate of inflation or cost of living increases) to the point that for many, credit card debt has become a fact of life they never see themselves getting out of it.</FONT></DIV><SPAN><DIV><FONT face=Arial color=#000000 size=2></FONT>&nbsp;</DIV><DIV><FONT face=Arial color=#000000 size=2>Why is it that we are earning more and more, yet finding ourselves deeper and deeper in debt? </FONT></DIV><DIV><FONT face=Arial color=#000000 size=2></FONT>&nbsp;</DIV><DIV><FONT face=Arial color=#000000 size=2>This Shmuz explores the Torah's approach to personal money matters, and gives us a solid approach to financial stability. </FONT></DIV></SPAN>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 18 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#119 - Bris Milah</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/119.mp3" length="11513803" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[The Jewish contribution to the cultural, scientific, and technological evolution of civilization is nothing short of astounding. Whether in academics, politics, the media, or the professions -- from curing polio to discovering atomic energy, from Hollywood to Wall Street-- Jews have had an extraordinary influence on culture and human progress. <BR><BR>Between 1901 and 2006, 23% of all Nobel Prizes worldwide, were awarded to Jews. In the 20th century, 37% of all United States Nobel Prizes were awarded to Jews. (Even though Jews make up less than a quarter of a percent of the world population, and less than 2% of the US population!) <BR><BR>The question is why? Why is it that such a miniscule percentage of the population can have such a profound influence - even effecting areas not known to be Jewish, areas like literature, art, theater and music? This Shmuz explores some of what make Jews unique, and allows him to find exceptional success in all of his endeavors.]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 17 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#118 - Daas Torah</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/118.mp3" length="13024811" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>When we have medical questions, we go to our doctor. When we have legal questions, we go to our lawyer. When we have financial questions, we go to our accountant. But who do we go to when we have "life questions"? Who do we approach when we have the really big deal questions -- questions that shape our future and the future of our families?&nbsp; Since the time we were in Yeshiva we have been taught the answer: Da'as Torah -- We consult our Rebbeim.</P><P>&nbsp;But the problem is that most of us don't have a Rebbe. Most of us find ourselves davening in one shul maybe another If we had a connection to a Rebbe in our Yeshiva days, we have long since lost contact with him. The Rov of the Shul I daven in, may be a big Talmid Chacham, but I have little to do with him So who do I turn to</P><P>&nbsp;This Shmuz address this very real problem in our communities.</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Fri, 16 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#117 - OPTIMISM</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/117.mp3" length="10097382" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Optimism is one of the most essential ingredients in a successful life: Without optimism the world is bleak, dreary place - Life stinks then you die. And even if there is some meaning and purpose in my existence, the odds of my succeeding at it are very slim, considering that bad things are far more likely to befall me than good. <BR><BR>An Optimist on the other hand, looks upon the world as a positive place. People and events are inherently good, things will work out in the end - They have a positive outlook on life. <BR><BR>Yet there is a sense of realism that demands questioning such an outlook. After all, many bad things do happen: businesses go bankrupt, people get sick, and everyone must die at sometime. Doesn't an optimistic outlook on life run counter to intelligence? How can a person maintain a sense of optimism when often times it is counterintuitive? <BR><BR>This Shmuz deals with the issue of balancing an objective, calculated view of life with optimism, and some practical techniques towards adopting a more optimistic view point.]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 15 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#116 - GROWTH</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/116.mp3" length="10467367" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>Every human needs to grow -- this is an inborn trait in the species. That trait either manifests itself in real, significant growth or it can be sublimated, channeled into other pursuits. When we watch people chase all types of new plateaus and never being satisfied when they attain them: The man who is constantly seeking to make more money, even though he already has far more than he can spend in his lifetime; the king who goes to war to expand his boundary, even though his monarchy is safe and secure, these are manifestations of the need for growth, incorrectly channeled. <BR><BR>This need stems from the Nishoma of man, his soul. Man was placed on this planet exactly for that purpose -- to grow. If man fills his soul's needs, then he is satisfied, and finds peace, if he doesn't, then he has this unmet need and desire within him that plagues and haunts him, demanding its fill. If that fulfillment can't be attained with real growth then it demands its fill with something, anything, as long as it takes away that gnawing sense of "I am wasting my life". <BR><BR>This Shmuz introduces us to some of the most basic factors in the functioning of a human being, and helps us understand exactly what it is that man needs to attain happiness.<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 14 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#115 - Preparing For Yom Kipper</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/115.mp3" length="13298796" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>While Yom Kippur is known as the day of forgiveness, there are two other issues a person should be focusing on during this day: Praying for all of their needs in the coming year, and asking themselves that key question: is the life that I am leading, in fact the life I wish to be leading.</P><P>This Shmuz focuses us on the importance of all three issues, and gives us some powerful motivation to use the day to its fullest.</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Tue, 13 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#114 - Creating a Balanced Self Esteem</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/114.mp3" length="12147322" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[In todays culture there is great emphasis on Self Esteem. Countless studies and reports claim that the basis of success is a good strong sense of self. <BR><BR>Does the Torah agree? Are there exceptions to this rule? Is self esteem really that integral to becoming a great person? And if, in fact, I need to have a high self esteem to reach my potential as an individual, how can that be balanced with the concept of being humble? High self esteem translates into thinking that I am very important; humility manifests itself into thinking that I am not important. Arent these two concepts in utter contradiction? <BR><BR>In this Shmuz we are introduced to the correct source of self esteem, its importance in success, and the formula for finding the balance between a good strong sense of self and a healthy sense of humility. <BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 12 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#113 - Tshuvah - Two Elements of Sin</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/113.mp3" length="12003877" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>As we come close to Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, <BR>we focus on the idea that Torah expects us to do <BR>Teshuva. Yet for most of us, while in a theoretical <BR>sense we understand that there are areas in which <BR>we could improve, in our real mode of being, we <BR>don't seem to feel that we really sin. When we go to <BR>Shul on Yom Kippur morning, it is rare to find the <BR>person who walks in with this sense of the magnitude <BR>of his sins and the fierce determination to get rid of <BR>them. For most of us, we come to daven, we try to<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","<br>\n focus on what we can do to improve, but the idea \nof <br>\n heart felt remorse and repentance just doesn\'t \nseem <br>\n to fit in</p>\n<p>In this Shmuz we are brought to focus on the \n<br>\n severity of a sin and its grave consequences, and \n<br>\n our ability to use the system of Teshuva to rid \nthem <br>\n from our essence</p>\n</div>\n\n</p>\n \n <p>\n <b><u>CDs For Shmuz #113 Sponsored \nBy:</u></b><br>Mr. &amp; Mrs. Chezky Eider<br>In \nHonor of Benny &amp; Chaim Eider\n</p>\n \n <p>\n <font color\u003d\"#FF0033\" face\u003d\"Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif\" size\u003d\"2\" style\u003d\"font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:10pt;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;color:#FF0033\"><div align\u003d\"CENTER\"><a href\u003d\"http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t\u003df84onybab.0.wndwkybab.95qsntbab.787&amp;ts\u003dS0207&amp;p\u003dhttp%3A%2F%2Fwww.theshmuz.com%2Fsourcesheet%2FShmuz_Number_113.pdf\" target\u003d\"_blank\" onclick\u003d\"return top.js.OpenExtLink(window,event,this)\">CLICK HERE FOR SHMUZ #113 \nHANDOUT</a></div></font>\n</p>\n \n <p>\n <u><b>TIME: </b></u>Refreshments 8:30, The \nShmuz \n8:45, Followed by \nMaariv<br><br><u><b>LOCATION:</b></u> \nYeshivas Chofetz Chaim, KGH\n</p>\n \n \n\n </font>\n </td>\n <td colspan\u003d\"1\" rowspan\u003d\"1\" valign\u003d\"top\">\n <img border\u003d\"0\" hspace\u003d\"10\" src\u003d\"http://www.theshmuz.com/graphics/products/thumb/Shmuz_Number_113.jpg\" vspace\u003d\"15\">\n </td>\n </tr>\n </table>\n \n\n \n\n <table border\u003d\"0\" cellpadding\u003d\"0\" cellspacing\u003d\"0\" width\u003d\"100%\">\n <tr>\n <td bgcolor\u003d\"#FFFFFF\" colspan\u003d\"3\" rowspan\u003d\"1\" style\u003d\"background-color:#FFFFFF\"><img border\u003d\"0\" height\u003d\"4\" src\u003d\"http://img.constantcontact.com/letters/images/spacer.gif\" width\u003d\"1\"></td>\n </tr>\n <tr>\n <td bgcolor\u003d\"#660066\" colspan\u003d\"3\" rowspan\u003d\"1\" style\u003d\"background-color:#660066\"><img border\u003d\"0\" height\u003d\"4\" src\u003d\"http://img.constantcontact.com/letters/images/spacer.gif\" width\u003d\"1\"></td>\n\n </tr>",1]);//--></SCRIPT> <BR>focus on what we can do to improve, but the idea of <BR>heart felt remorse and repentance just doesn't seem <BR>to fit in</P><P>In this Shmuz we are brought to focus on the <BR>severity of a sin and its grave consequences, and <BR>our ability to use the system of Teshuva to rid them <BR>from our essence</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 11 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#112 - Chesed - The Essence of Judaism</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/112.mp3" length="12003877" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[We know that HASHEM is more kindly that any human being that we can imagine. HASHEM created this entire world with fantastic love and concern strictly to give to man. We also know that HASHEM created many features in this world, specifically to give man more enjoyment.<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","<br><br>\nSo why don\'t I see it? Why don\'t I see the Chessed \nof HASHEM? Why can\'t I simply open my eyes and be \nawed by the fantastic amount of chessed, pure \nkindliness that HASHEM has invested in this world? \n\n \n<br><br>\nIn this Shmuz we focus on a concept of projection. \nThat more a person lives a life of doing for others, \nthe more they are can appreciate what others do for \nthem, and the more they are able to sense \nkindliness.</font>\n</p>\n \n <p>\n <b><u>Time</u>:</b>Chulent at 8:30, The Shmuz \nat \n8:45 and is followed by Maariv.<br><br>\n<b><u>Location</u></b>:Rabbi Rudinsky\'s Shul \nCorner of Parker &amp; Forshay.\n</p>\n \n <p>\n <b><u>The CDs For Shmuz #112 are sponsored \nby</u></b>: <br>Mr. &amp; Mrs. Kenny Pinczower \n<br><br>\n<b><u>Sponsorships are available</u></b>-If you \nare interested in sponsoring The CDs for \nany Shmuz or the refreshments, please \nemail [email protected] or call \n866-613-TORAH\n</p>\n \n\n <div style\u003d\"text-align:right\">\n <a color\u003d\"#CC0000\" href\u003d\"http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t\u003dba7yeybab.0.0.95qsntbab.0&amp;ts\u003dS0207&amp;p\u003dhttp%3A%2F%2Fwww.theshmuz.com%2Fsourcesheet%2FShmuz_Number_112.pdf\" shape\u003d\"rect\" style\u003d\"font-weight:bold;color:#CC0000\" target\u003d\"_blank\" onclick\u003d\"return top.js.OpenExtLink(window,event,this)\"><div align\u003d\"CENTER\">Click Here For Shmuz#112 Handout</div></a>\n </div>\n </font>\n </td>\n </tr>\n </table>\n <br>\n \n\n \n \n <a name\u003d\"10d88e36e71b64aa_article2\" shape\u003d\"rect\">\n \n\n <table border\u003d\"0\" cellpadding\u003d\"0\" cellspacing\u003d\"0\" width\u003d\"100%\">\n \n <tr>\n <td bgcolor\u003d\"#EDEDED\" colspan\u003d\"1\" rowspan\u003d\"1\" style\u003d\"background-color:#EDEDED;text-align:left;padding-left:3px\" valign\u003d\"top\"><font color\u003d\"#336699\" face\u003d\"Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif\" size\u003d\"2\" style\u003d\"font-family:Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:10pt;font-weight:bold;color:#336699\"><font color\u003d\"#990000\" face\u003d\"Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif\" size\u003d\"5\" style\u003d\"font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:18pt;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;color:#990000\">",1]);//--></SCRIPT> <BR><BR>So why don't I see it? Why don't I see the Chessed of HASHEM? Why can't I simply open my eyes and be awed by the fantastic amount of chessed, pure kindliness that HASHEM has invested in this world? <BR><BR>In this Shmuz we focus on a concept of projection. That more a person lives a life of doing for others, the more they are can appreciate what others do for them, and the more they are able to sense kindliness.]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 10 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#111 - Sustaining Spiritual Growth</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/111.mp3" length="11398175" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<DIV><P>Any level of spiritual growth comes with a lot of hard work and perseverance. Oftentimes it takes months or years to change my outlook on life, and to bring my value system in line with the Torahs values. Now that I have invested the time, energy and effort, and I have reached a certain level of understanding, how do I maintain it? How do I keep up the growth that I have attained?</P><P>This Shmuz offers us the Torah's system for preserving spiritual growth, and making the changes that we have effected in ourselves permanent</P></DIV>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Fri, 09 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#110 - Becoming a Great Individual</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/110.mp3" length="10791620" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Each individual was created with different strengths and weakness -- One is wise and the other is capable, one has great physical strength, and the other has a strong mental capacity. One is a financial wizard but can't fix his car, the other is a great Talmid Chacham but can't balance his checkbook. Some people can paint, some can speak, some can play the piano, some can create, some can sing and some can write poetry each person has his or her own unique ability.<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","</i><br><br> \n\nThis Shmuz focuses on the concept that each \nindividual was created with the potential for \ngreatness -- but not all individuals have the potential \nto be great in the same areas. As there are different \naptitudes, talents and gifts, there are different \nexpectations from each person. One of the keys to \nleading a successful life is to find my personal \nstrengths, develop them, and use them to \naccomplish great things. At the end of my \ndays &quot;They&quot; will ask me if I became a great person, \nbut not a great person as judged by the criteria of \nyou, or any other individual -- the question will be \ndid I use my abilities, gifts and talents to become the \ngreat individual that I could have become. <br><br>\n<b><u>Location</u></b>: Yeshivas Tiferes Yisroel. \nEast 35th Between K&amp;L<br><b><u>Time</u></b>: \n8:30 \nPM\n\n\n<br><br><a href\u003d\"http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t\u003dyprhyxbab.0.44zazxbab.95qsntbab.787&amp;ts\u003dS0199&amp;p\u003dhttp%3A%2F%2Fwww.theshmuz.com%2Fsourcesheet%2FShmuz_Number_110.pdf\" target\u003d\"_blank\" onclick\u003d\"return top.js.OpenExtLink(window,event,this)\"> Click Here For \nShmuz #110 Handout</a><br><br>\n<b><u>CDs For Shmuz #110 Sponsored by:</u></b>\nMr. &amp; Mrs. Zishy \nBarth, Leilulei Nishmas his grandfather Aryeh Leib ben \nYitzchok Issac - Yahrtziet Rosh Chodesh Elu</p>\n \n <p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p align\u003d\"center\"><strong><span>TBT \nBrooklyn - Programs Resume:</span><br>\n <span>Sunday Morning Halacha \nShiur</span> </strong><br>\n <strong><span>Location</span>: \n</strong>923 Roder Ave. between M&amp;N. <a href\u003d\"http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t\u003dyprhyxbab.0.ca9azxbab.95qsntbab.787&amp;ts\u003dS0199&amp;p\u003dhttp%3A%2F%2Fmaps.google.com%2Fmaps%3Fq%3D923%2BRoder%2BAve%2C%2BBrooklyn%2C%2BNY%2B11230%26amp%3Bie%3DUTF8%26amp%3Bom%3D1%26amp%3Bll%3D40.616656%2C-73.965197%26amp%3Bspn%3D0.016809%2C0.029182\" target\u003d\"_blank\" onclick\u003d\"return top.js.OpenExtLink(window,event,this)\">Google \nMap</a> <br>\n <span>Time:</span> Minyan is at \n8:15 followed by breakfast and the Shiur</p>\n<p align\u003d\"center\"><span>&quot;B-Ball \nand Blatt&quot;",1]);//--></SCRIPT> <BR><BR>This Shmuz focuses on the concept that each individual was created with the potential for greatness -- but not all individuals have the potential to be great in the same areas. As there are different aptitudes, talents and gifts, there are different expectations from each person. One of the keys to leading a successful life is to find my personal strengths, develop them, and use them to accomplish great things. At the end of my days "They" will ask me if I became a great person, but not a great person as judged by the criteria of you, or any other individual -- the question will be did I use my abilities, gifts and talents to become the great individual that I could have become.]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 08 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#109 - MACHLOKES! The Damage of Conflict</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/109.mp3" length="12721644" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>The Torah calls us a stiff necked people. It seems to be part of our very nature --<BR>put two Jews together and you get three opinions.<BR><BR>So how it is possible for us to live in harmony, as individuals, as families and certainly as communities? <BR><BR>We certainly understand the damage of conflict, and unfortunately many of us have felt first hand, the powerful downward spiral that occurs when human beings live in a state of strife. <BR><BR>The question is on a practical level, <STRONG>what can I do about this?<BR></STRONG><BR><!-- D(["mb",</p>\n \n <p>\n <u><b>CDs are Sponsored Tonight \nBy</b></u>:Pinchas Orbach - In Honor of Tiferes \nBnei Torah, with regards from Eretz Yisrael.\n</p>\n \n <p>\n <b><u>Sponsorships are available</u></b>-If you \nare interested in sponsoring The CDs for any Shmuz \nor the refreshments, please \nemail <a href\u003d\"mailto:[email protected]\" title\u003d\"mailto:[email protected]\" target\u003d\"_blank\" onclick\u003d\"return top.js.OpenExtLink(window,event,this)\"> \[email protected]</a> or call \n866-613-TORAH\n</p>\n \n\n <div style\u003d\"text-align:right\">\n <a color\u003d\"#CC0000\" href\u003d\"http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t\u003d9dvvywbab.0.0.95qsntbab.0&amp;ts\u003dS0194&amp;p\u003dhttp%3A%2F%2Fwww.theshmuz.com%2Fsourcesheet%2FShmuz_Number_109.pdf\" shape\u003d\"rect\" style\u003d\"font-weight:bold;color:#CC0000\" title\u003d\"http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t\u003d9dvvywbab.0.0.95qsntbab.0&amp;ts\u003dS0194&amp;p\u003dhttp%3A%2F%2Fwww.theshmuz.com%2Fsourcesheet%2FShmuz_Number_109.pdf\" target\u003d\"_blank\" onclick\u003d\"return top.js.OpenExtLink(window,event,this)\"><div align\u003d\"CENTER\">Click Here For Shmuz#109 Handout</div></a>\n </div>\n </font>\n </td>\n </tr>\n </table>\n <br>\n \n\n \n \n <a name\u003d\"10c58f2fe8824d5f_article2\" shape\u003d\"rect\">\n \n\n <table border\u003d\"0\" cellpadding\u003d\"0\" cellspacing\u003d\"0\" width\u003d\"100%\">\n \n <tr>\n <td bgcolor\u003d\"#EDEDED\" colspan\u003d\"1\" rowspan\u003d\"1\" style\u003d\"background-color:#EDEDED;text-align:left;padding-left:3px\" valign\u003d\"top\"><font color\u003d\"#336699\" face\u003d\"Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif\" size\u003d\"2\" style\u003d\"font-family:Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:10pt;font-weight:bold;color:#336699\"><font color\u003d\"#990000\" face\u003d\"Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif\" size\u003d\"5\" style\u003d\"font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:18pt;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;color:#990000\">Shmuz Sighting! <br>The Shmuz-Mini</font></font></td>\n </tr>\n <tr>\n <td bgcolor\u003d\"#666666\" colspan\u003d\"1\" rowspan\u003d\"1\" style\u003d\"background-color:#666666\" valign\u003d\"top\"><img height\u003d\"1\" src\u003d\"http://img.constantcontact.com/letters/images/spacer.gif\" width\u003d\"1\">",1] ); //--><BR</P><BR><BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 07 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#108 - Servant of HASHEM</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/108.mp3" length="12647050" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ <P>Said at the 3rd Annual Torah Retreat</P> ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Tue, 06 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#107 - CHAZAK!</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/107.mp3" length="10980159" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>Everybody wants to succeed. We want successful careers, successful relationships; we want to be winners at the game of life. But winning takes hard work, and hard work takes single-minded drive. That can be hard to maintain, especially when the going gets tough.<BR><BR>This Shmuz looks at the amazing success stories of champion athletes and underdogs who beat the odds, teaching us where we can find the inner strength to reach the heights HASHEM set up for us.<BR><BR><BR><BR>Said At The 3rd Annual Torah Retreat.<BR></P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 05 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#106 - The Power of a Tzibbur</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/106.mp3" length="7899852" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>There's strength in numbers. Sports fans tap into it when they cheer on their favorite teams, and lehavdil, the Torah recognizes it by commanding men to daven with a minyan. But why should it be that way? Why did HASHEM create the world in such a way that a group can accomplish more than an individual? <BR><BR>This Shmuz uncovers the intense power we tap into simply by connecting ourselves with the community at large.<BR><BR>Said At The 3rd Annual Torah Retreat.<BR></P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 04 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#105 - Understanding Life Settings PART II</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/105.mp3" length="12334116" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P><FONT style="FONT-FAMILY: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; COLOR: rgb(0,0,0); FONT-SIZE: 10pt" face=Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif color=#000000 size=2>We are taught over and over again that HASHEM is merciful and kind. We are taught that many times more that a Mother loves her child, HASHEM loves everyone one of his creations. <BR><BR>Yet when we look around the world we live in there are many features that just don't make sense. There is pain and suffering. There are hurricanes and tornadoes. There are diseases and ailments; there are orphans, widows and divorce.<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","<br><br>If we \nalso accept that HASHEM is all- knowing then we \nunderstand that all of these features are part of the \ndesign that HASHEM had for this world they \nweren\'t by accident- they were part of the \nplan.<br><br> How are we to understand all of the \nsuffering and misfortune that seems to be \ndeliberately designed into the world?</b>\n </font</p>\n<font style\u003d\"font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:10pt;color:rgb(0, 0, 0)\" color\u003d\"#000000\" face\u003d\"Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif\" size\u003d\"2\"> \n </font><p>\n<font style\u003d\"font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:10pt;color:rgb(0, 0, 0)\" color\u003d\"#000000\" face\u003d\"Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif\" size\u003d\"2\"> <b><u>Time</u>:</b>Dougie\'s at 8:30, Maariv at \n8:45 and is followed by The \nShmuz .<br><br>\n<b><u>Location</u></b>:Yeshiva Tiferes Yisroel, \nEast 35th Between K &amp; L.\n </font</p>\n<font style\u003d\"font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:10pt;color:rgb(0, 0, 0)\" color\u003d\"#000000\" face\u003d\"Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif\" size\u003d\"2\"> \n </font><p>\n<font style\u003d\"font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:10pt;color:rgb(0, 0, 0)\" color\u003d\"#000000\" face\u003d\"Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif\" size\u003d\"2\"> <b><u>Sponsorships are available\n</u></b>-If you \nare interested in sponsoring The CDs <b><u><b>for \nthis</b>\n</u></b>or any Shmuz or the refreshments, please \nemail <a href\u003d\"mailto:[email protected]\" target\u003d\"_blank\" onclick\u003d\"return top.js.OpenExtLink(window,event,this)\">[email protected]</a> or call \n866-613-TORAH\n </font</p>\n<font style\u003d\"font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:10pt;color:rgb(0, 0, 0)\" color\u003d\"#000000\" face\u003d\"Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif\" size\u003d\"2\"> \n\n </font><div style\u003d\"text-align:right\">\n<font style\u003d\"font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:10pt;color:rgb(0, 0, 0)\" color\u003d\"#000000\" face\u003d\"Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif\" size\u003d\"2\">",1]);//--></SCRIPT> <BR><BR>If we also accept that HASHEM is all- knowing then we understand that all of these features are part of the design that HASHEM had for this world they weren't by accident- they were part of the plan.<BR><BR>How are we to understand all of the suffering and misfortune that seems to be deliberately designed into the world? </FONT</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 03 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#104 - Parenting 101</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/104.mp3" length="11821435" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P><I>We hear a lot about the importance of good parenting techniques, and while these are essential to learn, it seems that there is more to being a great parent then being able to relate well to child. After all, there are many individuals who have good people skills yet make lousy parents. </I</P><P>In this Shmuz we are introduced to the amazing concept that Sarah Imanu wasn't ready to be a parent to Yitzchak until she was 90 years of age-- despite her personal greatness, she wasn't quite there yet. From this we come to understand that the true essence of great parenting is being a great person - the type of person that can guide a child on their path in life. Which then leads us to the critical question: how can I, a regular person, become that great person that my children and grandchildren will want to emulate?<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Fri, 02 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#103 Torah Study - The Key To It All</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/103.mp3" length="14012399" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>Everyone wants to grow. There isn't a person alive who doesn't want to grow; in fact this drive to grow is natural to the human. The problem is that we often find ourselves stuck. Even if we fully understand the gravity of our actions, even if we truly understand who it is that we can become-- it is difficult to change</P><P>Yet the Torah expects us to change, to grow, to become a better person. The question is how? How do I get the strength, the motivation, the push to actually move myself from where I am to where I would like to be? Chazal teach us that the key to personal growth is Torah study -- but not just Torah study, specifically, toiling in Torah. The process of learning Torah in depth, learning Torah with exertion, is the greatest firepower to empower a person to grow.<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","<br><br><b>This is a very good Shmuz for \nreenergizing \nour personal Torah Study.</b>\n</p>\n \n <p>\n <b><u>Time</u>:</b>Chlent at 8:30, The Shmuz \n8:45 and is followed by maariv.<br><br>\n<b><u>Location</u></b>:Rabbi Rudinsky\'s Shul, \ncorner of Parker &amp; Forshay.\n</p>\n \n <p>\n <font color\u003d\"#FF0000\" face\u003d\"Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif\" size\u003d\"2\" style\u003d\"font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:10pt;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;color:#FF0000\"><b><u>Sponsorships are available</u></b>-If you \nare interested in sponsoring The CDs <b><u><b>for \nthis </b>\n</u></b>or any Shmuz or the refreshments, please \nemail [email protected] or call \n866-613-TORAH</font>\n</p>\n \n\n <div style\u003d\"text-align:right\">\n <a color\u003d\"#CC0000\" href\u003d\"http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t\u003d47lgzvbab.0.fauhzvbab.95qsntbab.787&amp;p\u003dhttp%3A%2F%2Ftheshmuzpod.com%2FPublic%2FHandouts%2F103_Handout.pdf\" shape\u003d\"rect\" style\u003d\"font-weight:bold;color:#CC0000\" target\u003d\"_blank\" onclick\u003d\"return top.js.OpenExtLink(window,event,this)\">Click Here For Shmuz#103 Handout</a>\n </div>\n </font>\n </td>\n </tr>\n </table>\n <br>\n \n\n \n \n <a name\u003d\"10b6c23061f5f4fe_article2\" shape\u003d\"rect\">\n \n\n <table border\u003d\"0\" cellpadding\u003d\"0\" cellspacing\u003d\"0\" width\u003d\"100%\">\n \n <tr>\n <td bgcolor\u003d\"#EDEDED\" colspan\u003d\"1\" rowspan\u003d\"1\" style\u003d\"background-color:#EDEDED;text-align:left;padding-left:3px\" valign\u003d\"top\"><font color\u003d\"#336699\" face\u003d\"Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif\" size\u003d\"2\" style\u003d\"font-family:Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:10pt;font-weight:bold;color:#336699\"><font color\u003d\"#990000\" face\u003d\"Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif\" size\u003d\"5\" style\u003d\"font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:18pt;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;color:#990000\">The NEW TheShmuz.com</font></font></td>\n </tr>\n <tr>\n <td bgcolor\u003d\"#666666\" colspan\u003d\"1\" rowspan\u003d\"1\" style\u003d\"background-color:#666666\" valign\u003d\"top\">",1]);//--></SCRIPT> <BR><BR><B>This is a very good Shmuz for reenergizing our personal Torah Study.</B></P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 01 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#102 - Learning to Love HASHEM</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/102.mp3" length="11699119" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[When we speak about Love of HASHEM, we normally think of some sort of elusive, vague concept. Yet not only are we commanded to Love HASHEM, the Torah describes this as something that will be effective in preventing one from taking revenge. <BR><BR>How is it possible for a regular person to actually love HASHEM, and feel that emotion so strongly that it will actually change his behaviour? <BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 31 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#101 - Why Pray</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/101.mp3" length="9949419" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[When we speak about Love of HASHEM, we normally think of some sort of elusive, vague concept. Yet not only are we commanded to Love HASHEM, the Torah describes this as something that will be effective in preventing one from taking revenge. <BR><BR>How is it possible for a regular person to actually love HASHEM, and feel that emotion so strongly that it will actually change his behaviour?]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Tue, 30 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#100 - Keeping The Dream Alive</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/100.mp3" length="10211774" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Everyone has dreams. It's a healthy part of human nature. Our dreams give meaning to our lives, motivate us to get out of bed in the morning, and keep us going day in and day out. <BR><BR>But there's a difference between dreaming of making mega-millions and dreaming of making a difference in the world. This Shmuz teaches us how to fine-tune our dreams so we can transform our lives from the ordinary to the truly extraordinary.<BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 29 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#99 - Men are from Mars</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B.Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/99.mp3" length="10602452" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P><FONT face=Verdana color=#333333 size=2><EM>Men and women are inherently different, in the way that they approach issues and concepts and ideas, and in the very way that they think, speak, behave and feel. Even more significantly socially, emotionally, psychologically men and women are worlds apart What they value, aspire for, and need is starkly differentIt is almost as if they are from different planets. <BR><BR>Yet they are expected to live together in peace and harmony. A young man and a young woman are expected to meet, total strangers, then after a short courtship, are expected to come to together in the closest of all human bonds, soul mates, sharing their lives.</EM></FONT</P><P><FONT face=Verdana size=2>This Shmuz deals with some of the most basic differences between men and women, the systems HASHEM has created to allow couples to bond and live in harmony, and offers some techniques couples can use that are constructive to a harmonious, lasting relationship. </FONT</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 28 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#98 - The Power of Positive Thinking</title>
<link>www.TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/98.mp3" length="11349735" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Shmuz Info Coming Soon.... ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 27 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#97 - Living the Good Life</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/97.mp3" length="11879062" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[We all want to live "the good life." Big homes, money in the bank, vacations, and luxury. The trouble is that these things never seem to satisfy. Anyone who spends his life acquiring them finds himself wanting more and more. Perhaps "the good life" isn't so good, after all.<BR>So what is "the good life?" It comes from living life in balance, from fulfilling your mission on this planet.<BR>By breaking down human nature into its basic components, this Shmuz shows how good, happy, and productive lives are possible for everybody - and that includes you.<BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Fri, 26 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#96 - Purim III-Seize the Moment</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/96.mp3" length="12294209" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Shmuz Info Coming Soon... ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 25 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#95 - Time Management</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/95.mp3" length="12622121" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Shmuz Info Coming Soon... ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 24 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#94 - On Being Judgmental</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/94.mp3" length="27841015" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>Why is it so important not to be judgmental of others</P><P>How do you not judge other people's words, ideas and actions even when you don't agree with them?</P><P>The trick is knowing when to be judgmental, and when to reserve it for later, and when to not judge at all. Every situation needs an independent evaluation. This ability is key in many areas in life especially in relationships</P><P>&nbsp</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Tue, 23 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#93 - Shabbos - Foundation of our Emunah</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/93.mp3" length="13136145" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Shmuz info coming soon.... ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 22 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#92 - TACT</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/92.mp3" length="23918558" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>How can a different perspective of speech and my actions sometimes so drastically make a difference between success and failure. <BR>Tact is a careful consideration of the feelings and values of another so as to create harmonious relationships with a reduced potential for conflict or offense. It is a virtue. It is the ability to induce change or communicate critical and sometimes hurtful information without offending through the use of consideration, compassion, kindness, and reason. <BR>A tactful person can tell you something you don't want to hear and you will be thankful for the information when they are finished</P><P>&nbsp</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 21 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#91 - I Never Forget</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/91.mp3" length="28981554" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ <P>Shmuz Info Coming Soon..</P> ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 20 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#90 - Torah Lishmah</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/90.mp3" length="13467349" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>Since the time we began school the importance of Torah study has been something that weve learnt about and come to understand.&nbsp; But at the end of the day, it seems to be hard to set up meaningful Sedarim that really last. Why is that? And, what can I do about it</P><P>&nbsp;In this Shmuz we are brought to see the value of Torah from the Torahs perspective, and given some practical, hands on, advice as to how to set up realistic Torah study goals, actually reach them.&nbsp;</P><P>&nbsp</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Fri, 19 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#89 - Malbin Pnei Chavero</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/89.mp3" length="10736749" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[We've all have felt the pain of embarrassment, and we understand the seriousness that the Torah ascribes to not causing a friend pain-- Yet it seems that it happens anyway. Granted we don't intend it, but it happens anyway. In this Shmuz we are introduced to a new understanding of the gravity that the Torah ascribes to not embarrassing a fellow man, and the sensitivity we need to develop to another person's pain.]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 18 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#88 - Chanukah - The Effect of Outside Influences</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/88.mp3" length="12737155" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[The nisayon in the times of Chanukah was clear: fight for Torah or succumb to Greek culture. During the Spanish Expulsion, the nisayon was also clear: leave Spain as a Jew or convert and remain comfortable. What is the nisayon in our times? Our lives are no longer threatened. We enjoy tremendous wealth and freedom. What could be wrong? <BR><BR>Make no mistake. Modern-day culture is insidiously breaking down morality. Each of us must be on our guard. <BR><BR>If you ever wondered if there was a Divine purpose for Elvis Presley, the Beatles, and Mick Jagger, then this Shmuz is for you. Beware of the crushing of a few idols. <BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 17 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#87 - SELF CONTROL</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/87.mp3" length="11906689" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Most of us are wimps. If you dont believe it, ask yourself what you do when faced with a choice between doing what you want and doing what you should. The nisyonos are different for everybody, but how many of us can claim to be masters over our desires? How many of us have real inner strength, real self-control? <BR><BR>Just like a body builder develops his strength in small increments, we develop inner strength step by step. This Shmuz clues you in to the strategies you need to trounce your weaknesses once and for all. <BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Tue, 16 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#86 - To Tell the Truth</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/86.mp3" length="10429573" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Were surrounded by falsehood. We dont believe our leaders, and we know that all the ads bombarding us are lies. Were so used to it, we accept as normal. <BR><BR>Tzaddikim dont do that. Lies are anathema to them. They live by their word. <BR><BR>Once upon a time, everyone lived that way. Truth and honor meant something, not just to tzaddikim, but to ordinary people. <BR><BR>This Shmuz shows how you, an ordinary person in a world full of lies, can rise above it all and live a life of truth. <BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 15 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#85 - MOTIVATION!</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/85.mp3" length="11095413" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Success may be sweet, but to get there, you need motivation. When things are going swimmingly, motivation comes naturally. But when you hit those inevitable rough spots, you need an extra boost. <BR><BR>Where do you get it, especially when youre in a rut? How can you get motivated when you just arent? <BR><BR>Motivation works on the positive side and the negative. You can motivate yourself by visualizing your dreams or you can give yourself a little kick by imagining your worst fears. Both ways work; you just need to know when to apply which. <BR><BR>This Shmuz will teach you how to be your own cheering committee so youll always be motivated to tackle the big challenges of life. <BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 14 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#84- Why Me</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/84.mp3" length="9837522" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Why me? Why now? Its too much. I cant take it anymore! <BR><BR>Weve all said it when the going gets rough. The trials of life really can seem unbearable at times. But the moment you think youre down for the count is the moment to turn to HASHEM even if youre angry at Him. <BR><BR>This Shmuz gives you the chizuk you need to get through all the rough spots on the roller coaster of life. <BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 13 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#83 - The Moon Was Jealous, Understanding the Forces of Nature</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/83.mp3" length="11096245" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[The Midrash that tells us that the moon was jealous of the sun is much more than a mashal for kids. It contains deep and spiritual messages about how HASHEM runs the world, but it takes a mature mind to grasp them. <BR><BR>The world is far more complex than meets the eye. To really understand it, you need a spiritual microscope. This Shmuz, drawing on the teachings of the Rishonim as well as modern science, provides that spiritual microscope. The stories of your childhood wont seem so childish anymore. <BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Fri, 12 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#82 - Why Me? Understanding Suffering</title>
<link>The Shmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/82.mp3" length="9516663" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Nobody gets through this life without some suffering. Some people suffer tragedies, others just stress and discomfort, but no matter the nature of the pain, it comes with a Divine purpose. Suffering, when viewed correctly, deepens you and makes you a better, more sensitive person. <BR><BR>Unfortunately, its possible to completely miss HASHEMs message. A person can suffer pain and not even grow from it. That is the worst kind of suffering - pain without meaning. <BR><BR>Its only natural to want to minimize pain, but since some is inevitable, the wise person prepares himself to face it. This Shmuz gives you the mindset you need to extract the Divine lessons in every type of suffering. <BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#81 - All For My People</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/81.mp3" length="10908674" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Loving our fellow Jews is a beautiful concept, but really feeling one with them often seems far-removed from real life. Its fine in theory, but in practice? Its hard to do in the cold and indifferent 21st century. <BR><BR>The story of Yonah is the prime example of ahavas Yisrael. He risked his life and his Olam Habo, all for the love of the Jewish people. And while we cant be on that level, this Shmuz will give us practical applications for that all-important mitzvah, the klal gadol of the Torah. <BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#80 - Its Never Too Late</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/80.mp3" length="11806284" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[We put up many resistances to teshuva. The simplest one is denial. Ive never done anything wrong. But deep down, we know its a lie, so guilt festers, perking up at odd moments to tell us, Who do you think you are doing mitzvos? Youre a slime and a faker. Stop pretending to be holy. <BR><BR>With all these obstacles, it could almost seem that teshuva is impossible. But it isnt. You just have to take it in small, steady steps. <BR><BR>With inspiring mussar for Elul, the Yomim Noraim, or even an ordinary day, this Shmuz will show you that its never to late to change. <BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Tue, 09 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#79 - Reward & Punishment</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/79.mp3" length="12042690" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Reward and punishment is not a matter of HASHEM giving a potch to a rasha and making nice to a tzaddik. Each persons cheshbon is meted out with fine precision, sometimes over generations. Its so complex we cannot begin to fathom it. But theres one thing we can understand: our actions, whether for the good or the bad, have a forceful impact. <BR><BR>By giving us a glimpse into the vast orchestrations of reward and punishment, this Shmuz will leave you awed not only by HASHEMs power, but by the power He gives each one of us. <BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 08 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#78 - Kiddush HASHEM</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/78.mp3" length="11601037" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Making a kiddush Hashem isnt just about the big things like sacrificing ones life for the sake of a mitzvah its something we can do every day. <BR><BR>Ultimately, every Jew is a billboard for Torah. When we behave properly, we have a ripple effect on the people around us. Our simple mitzvos make the world a better place. <BR><BR>Its a heavy responsibility, but also a rewarding challenge. This Shmuz shows how your honesty and courtesy have the power to transform you, your family and friends, and even total strangers. <BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 07 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#77 - Man Based Morality</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/77.mp3" length="11691432" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Whenever we follow our own desires, we mess up. Even when we act with the best of intentions, we mess up. High-minded ideologies have failed time and time again. History is chock-full of examples. <BR><BR>Theres a very good reason why man-based morality consistently fails. We humans are imperfect. We cant possibly see all the consequences to our actions. <BR><BR>This Shmuz reminds us of the one and only way to make sure that your good intentions bring good results: by sticking with the tried and true morality of Torah. <BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 06 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#76 - Asking Advice-Second Torah Retreat</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/76.mp3" length="11417473" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Making decisions is a challenge for many of us. Some people stall themselves into inaction. But more often, people just jump into things without thinking them through. The younger you are, the more likely you are to do this. <BR><BR>But rushing into things is no way to live your life. Chances are, all youll end up with is regrets. And thats why each of us needs the advice of someone older and wiser a rabbi or mentor. <BR><BR>This Shmuz, with its amazing and even eerie stories, proves that seeking daas Torah is the most intelligent decision you can make. <BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Fri, 05 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#75 - The Art of Appreciation</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/75.mp3" length="11587908" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[We live in times of unmatched wealth and comfort. People now live in more ease and luxury than at any other time in history. So why is there so much unhappiness? Why do the rich and famous seem to be the least happy of all? <BR><BR>The trouble is that we take all this good for granted. And worse, we forget that HASHEM granted it. <BR><BR>This Shmuz trains us in the fine art of appreciation. Just by thinking about any single benefit of this world, youll find plenty of reasons to be happy with life.]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#74 - D'Vaykus in Our Times</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/74.mp3" length="10116308" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Falling in love is the most pleasurable and powerful experience most of us will have in our lifetimes. And it comes so naturally, too. Just look at any chosson and kallah.<BR><BR>Loving Hashem takes more effort, but the reward can be even greater. After all, His love is all-powerful.<BR><BR>Lofty as it sounds, we can all achieve dvaykus with HASHEM. This Shmuz shows us how to turn that spiritual goal into practical reality.<BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 03 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#73 - Self Respect - The Basis of it All</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/73.mp3" length="10995181" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Too many of us are familiar with inner chatter, the little voice that constantly says, Youre no good. Youre a failure. Everything you touch turns to mud.<BR><BR>If only we could learn to shut that inner chatter off! Its blocking us from reaching our full potential!<BR><BR>Shutting it off may not be easy, but its definitely possible. The first success will boost you forward with the speed and strength of a runaway train.<BR><BR>No quick fix for self esteem, this Shmuz goes to the core, highlighting the tzelem Elokim in each of us. The tools for reaching great heights are already in your hands.<BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Tue, 02 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#72 - Respecting Others - The Students of Rebbe Akiva</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/72.mp3" length="12544287" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Respect is the basis of all good human relations, but do we really give others their due? We know that every human is a tzelem Elokim, but how often do we think about that when were talking to our friends? Do we even remember it with our spouses?<BR><BR>With stories of the gedolim, including some to make you laugh, this Shmuz shows how respect can work magic in your relationships.<BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 01 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#71 - Chesed-Being Like HASHEM</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/71.mp3" length="11345241" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[One of the most detailed sections in Torah is the description of Avraham Avinus chesed to the three angels. Posuk after posuk tells us the minutiae of how Avraham served his guests. But of all his spiritual accomplishments, what is so great about this one? Why does the Torah give it so much attention? <BR><BR>The answer is that chesed is the closest means we have of emulating HASHEM. HASHEM is the ultimate Giver. He gave us life and all the brachos that come with it. Avraham knew this, so he cherished every opportunity to do chesed. And the Torah wants us to absorb that lesson.<BR><BR>Believe it or not, each of us can be like Avraham. Weve got it in our genes. We just have to keep our eyes open for opportunities.<BR><BR>This Shmuz will show you how to move away from self-centeredness and into other-centeredness. Not only will you become a better oved HASHEM, your life will be more satisfying, too.<BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 28 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#70 - Onah-The Torah's Sensitivity to Another's Pain</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/70.mp3" length="11007409" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Often we think of onaas devorim of not saying cruel things to people as referring to big things, like tearing someone down in public. In reality, its much more subtle. People hurt each other with callous remarks all the time. And usually, they didnt even mean to.<BR><BR>Those callous remarks cost. Even when we forget what weve said, our victims dont, and neither does HASHEM. He makes sure well feel the after-effect one way or other.<BR><BR>This Shmuz will heighten your sensitivity to your fellow human beings and keep you from stumbling into the ever-present trap of saying the wrong thing.<BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 27 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#69 - Yitzias Mitzraim- A War of Ideology</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/69.mp3" length="12370171" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[When we look at Pharaoh and his pagan beliefs, we usually write him off as primitive. The same goes for all idol worshippers. But surprisingly, they were tuned into spiritual secrets we modern folks tend to ignore. They just made one fatal error.<BR><BR>Modern science isnt all that different. Scientists have uncovered some astounding facts of nature. But for all their sophistication, some of their beliefs are downright silly.<BR><BR>For Pesach or for all year round, this Shmuz brings home the war of ideas between Pharaoh and Moshe and the war of ideas we face today.<BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Fri, 26 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#68 - People Skills</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/68.mp3" length="13165498" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Getting along with people is the single most important of all life skills. Good human relations are the key to running a successful business, having a loving marriage, and above all, to raising happy kids. <BR><BR>Because people skills are so essential, this Shmuz offers something unique: a mini-course in social relations. With these basics under your belt, youll become more than just well-liked; youll be more effective in achieving your goals.<BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 25 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#67 - Understanding and Eliminating Jealousy</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/67.mp3" length="9374860" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[If theres one thing that makes smart people act dumb, its jealousy. When people are caught in its clutches, they forget every other bracha in their lives. Nothing is as important as what the other guy has, whether it be money, happiness, or kavod.<BR><BR>The good news is that jealousy is surprisingly easy to work on. Because its so irrational and illogical, clear thinking is all it takes to neutralize it.<BR><BR>This Shmuz will give you the hashkafos you need to quell that green-eyed monster once and for all, put you on the path to conquering jealousy forever, leaving you free to really enjoy your life.<BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 24 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#66 - Mark of the Man</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/66.mp3" length="11072632" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[A popular notion in the secular world is that people are just like animals. Animals live and breathe; we live and breathe. Animals walk on four legs; we walk on two. Whats the big difference?<BR><BR>The Torah tells us that the difference is staggering. Its true that humans have an animalistic side, but we also have nishomas. By nurturing the nishoma, we can reach limitless spiritual heights. Thats something no animal can do.<BR><BR>The nishoma requires specific nourishment for its growth: Torah. Learning Torah beats back the animalistic desires and propels the nishoma forward. It takes discipline, but the pay-off is enormous. <BR><BR>By reminding you of just how much you stand to gain, this Shmuz will not only motivate you to learn, itll help you enjoy learning.<BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Tue, 23 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#65 - Davening Part III - Power Prayers-The Impact of Tfilah</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/65.mp3" length="10119817" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[A close look at tefilla defies human logic. Simply by saying particular words with kavannah, we can reverse judgments in Heaven. How is it possible? It doesnt make sense!<BR><BR>The answer is that it doesnt have to make sense. On one level, davening is a chok. But more than that, davening is a gift. Its an escape hatch we can use to get out of trouble any time.<BR><BR>This Shmuz will teach you to treasure the mitzvah of tefilla and help you to tap into its life-changing power.<BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 22 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#64 - Davening Part II</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/64.mp3" length="10811485" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Davening is an amazingly powerful tool, and any of us can use it. Hashem loves us so much, its as though He cant resist our prayers. Yet somehow, most of us dont believe it. We think were too small to be noticed or that if we ask for too much, its kvetching. Nothing could be further from the truth.<BR><BR>This Shmuz gives us a taste of just how much HASHEM loves us. With that clear in your mind, youll be more enthused about davening than ever before.<BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 21 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#63 - Davening Part I</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/63.mp3" length="12622289" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Plan your life; live your plan. Set goals for yourself; follow through with them.<BR><BR>Davening by rote is nothing less than selling yourself short. HASHEM and only HASHEM has the power to provide you with whatever you want or need. So why rush through davening in one big mumble? <BR><BR>The trick to planning your life effectively is in when you plan it. First and foremost, you have to understand yourself.<BR><BR>With humor and apt mashalim, this first of a three-part Shmuz is just the thing to put life back into your davening.<BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 20 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#62 - Plan Your Life / Live your Plan</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/62.mp3" length="11138346" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Plan your life; live your plan. Set goals for yourself; follow through with them.<BR><BR>It sounds like plain common sense, but somehow, most people dont bother. They get sidetracked by the rat race and the pursuit of pleasure. Winging their way through life, they never reach their full potential.<BR><BR>The trick to planning your life effectively is in when you plan it. First and foremost, you have to understand yourself.<BR><BR>The simple yet powerful teachings in this Shmuz contain everything you need to live the life of your dreams.<BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Fri, 19 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#61 - Heroes!</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/61.mp3" length="10359260" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[People have accomplished some extraordinary things. Muhammad Ali fought his way to becoming heavyweight champion of the world. Roger Bannister ran the first four-minute mile. And lehavdil, gedolim like Rav Shimon Shkop, Reb Chaim Brisker, and Rav Gifter became champions in Torah.<BR><BR>What is the difference between them and us? Surprisingly, nothing at all. HASHEM gave every human the ability to soar to great heights if only wed believe in ourselves. <BR><BR>So dust off those dreams youve put on the shelf. This Shmuz will give you the focus and motivation to turn them into reality.<BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 18 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#60 - Tidal Waves and Middas HaDin</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/60.mp3" length="12921001" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Middas Ha Din and Middas Ha Rachamim may seem like esoteric Kabbalistic concepts beyond our understanding, but a look at history will give us a clear demonstration of how they operate. Weve seen people die by the millions, not just in wars, but in famines, tidal waves, and other natural disasters. Even the media calls them acts of G-d. The question is: why does G-d make them happen?<BR><BR>This Shmuz wakes us up to the awesome power of HASHEM and stirs our hearts toward teshuva.<BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 17 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#59 - Humility - An Issue of Perspective</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/59.mp3" length="11844040" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[HASHEM gave everyone a unique set of talents. Some people are strong, others smart, and others musical. But no matter which talents you have, HASHEM gave them to you to help you accomplish a specific mission in this world.<BR><BR>The trouble is, people often lose sight of this. They credit themselves for their talents and even expect praise and honor because of them. Not only does this make them seem obnoxious, it guarantees that they will fail to use their talents as HASHEM intended.<BR><BR>This Shmuz teaches us to view ourselves and our abilities with honest humility. Only then can we achieve the greatness HASHEM meant for each of us.<BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Tue, 16 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#58 - Arrogance Misdirected</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/58.mp3" length="11967146" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Nobody in the entire Torah was as arrogant as Pharaoh. He actually believed he was the Creator! But his delusion, though in an extreme form, is common in human beings. Weve seen it in dictators like Hitler and Napoleon. We see it in larger-than-life tycoons like Donald Trump. And sometimes, we see it in ourselves.<BR><BR>With a breakdown of why this middah rears its ugly head so often, this Shmuz motivates us to work on its antidote: humility. <BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 15 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#57 - Torah - Creating Worlds</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/57.mp3" length="15198076" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Shmuz Info Coming Soon... ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 14 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#56 - The Death of Right and Wrong</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/56.mp3" length="13584722" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[According to the modern world, the worst thing we can do is judge others. Im okay, and youre okay. Even murderers are okay, or at least we should try and understand them. They have excuses their upbringing, jealousy, pressures. How can they be responsible for their crimes?<BR><BR>This moral relativism is eating away at the very fabric of society. Its even penetrating Jewish society. What can we do about it?<BR><BR>This Shmuz weaves together current social politics with the Chanukah story, delivering a timely message about standing up for right and wrong. <BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 13 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#55 - Staying Pure In An Impure World</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/55.mp3" length="14550683" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ Staying Pure In An Impure World. ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Fri, 12 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#54 - Understanding Laziness</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/54.mp3" length="13967226" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[Have you ever found it hard to get out of bed in the morning? Lying there after a full nights sleep, is it difficult to get yourself moving? It doesnt take a genius to know thats laziness, but the question is: how do we overcome it?<BR><BR>For starters, we need to understand laziness why we have it and why it drags us down. From there, the solution is simple. Dont be lazy. Good middos are like muscles. When you exercise them, they grow stronger.<BR><BR>The battle plan in this Shmuz will not only help you beat laziness and make you more productive, it will make your life more fun!<BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 11 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#53 - I hate Criticism</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/53.mp3" length="13657028" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>Youre always late. Why cant you ever be neat? You bounced another check, whats wrong with you It seems that whether we are dealing with children, parents, siblings, coworkers or employees, there is so much that needs improvement, that we cant help but comment. In fact, these lines slip out of our mouths so easily, that often we dont even know we are saying them! Of course, we only say them in the hope of influencing behavior and affecting change Yet they never seem to work. For some strange reason, not only dont these comments cause people to improve, they seem to backfire. <BR><BR>In this Shmuz we are brought to focus on the concept that, not only is criticism counterproductive, it actually eats away at the root of all successful relationships- that sense of trust and approval that we humans so crave.</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 10 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#52 - Bitachon Part III</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/52.mp3" length="13246710" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[The Torah tells us that when Yosef Ha Tzaddik was in prison and asked Pharaohs wine steward to put in a good word for him, HASHEM punished him for his lack of bitachon. Doesnt that seem a bit extreme? He was in a terrible dungeon, far worse than the prisons of today. What was wrong about making an effort to free himself?<BR><BR>The problem lies not in what Yosef did, but how and why he did it. And while HASHEM does not expect us to be on Yosefs level, He does test us with challenges of our own.<BR><BR>This Shmuz reveals HASHEMs three intended purposes for giving us parnossah. As long as we keep His priorities straight, we can maximize bracha in our own lives. <BR><BR>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Tue, 09 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#51 - Bitachon Part II</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/51.mp3" length="10644117" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P> If you want to know if your bitachon is where it should be, theres a very simple test. Do you go into a panic when you dont know how youre going to pay your next bill? Do you often think that you could have been more successful if only youd done things differently? If your answer was yes, then you, like most of us, need to work on bitachon.<BR><BR>But striking the balance between bitachon and hishtadlus is not so simple. What is my part and what is HASHEMs?<BR><BR>This Shmuz teaches how honest effort combined with trust in HASHEM is an unbeatable formula for success. <BR><BR></P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 08 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#50 - Bitachon Part I - Learning to Trust HASHEM</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/50.mp3" length="13101003" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>Part one of a three-part series on Bitachon, this Shmuz focuses us on the first stage of Bitachon: learning to trust HASHEM. Amazingly the Chovos Halevovos explains to us that by nature we trust. In fact, without trust we couldnt function. If we didnt trust, then every time we left our home we would fear death by a car crash, an earthquake, or a tornado. Every time we entered into a business transaction we would fear the economy failing or a major international catastrophe. To allow us to function as healthy human beings, HASHEM put into our nature a need to trust. However, that need to trust is typically misplaced. We trust in nature, we trust in the economy, we trust in the Air Force, the police and the emergency medical personnelmore than anything we trust that the ways things have been until now, they will continue to be. And this sense of trust remains with us until the thing we so trusted in fails us, and then we see the futility of that which we trusted in.</P><P>A good follow-up to Shmuz #18 The Difference Between Emunah and Bitachon.&nbsp; <BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 07 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#49 - Yom Kippur- The Capacity of a Human</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://www.theshmuz.com/podcast/49.mp3" length="14161150" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>Nachum Ish Gam Zu, one of the greatest Tanaim who ever lived, was a complete Tzadik. Yet, at one point in his life, he made a minor mistake, and from then on suffered terribly. When he explained to his students that it was because of this minor oversight that he was suffering they said to him, Woe to us, that we have to see you this way. He responded, Woe to me, if you didnt see me this way. Meaning he felt that his pain was worth it. Even more, he felt that his suffering was a good thing, something he welcomed -- something in fact he had wished upon himself.</P><P>Through this perplexing episode brought in the Gemarah we are presented with a radically different view of punishment in this world, and the extent of accountability that a human is held to. But more than a fire and brimstone concept, we see what is expected of a person, and what he can accomplish during his stay on this planet.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 06 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#48 - Being a Nice Guy</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/48.mp3" length="14066321" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>Most people we meet are nice guys. If you were stuck on the road, or if you needed a place to sleep they would be the first to come forward and offer to help. Yet these very same people do things that really arent nice-- in fact, sometimes downright cruel. The question is why? Why is it that people who are kind and sweet, do things that are so unquestionably mean?</P><P>Oftentimes the answer is simply because they dont see other people. They go through life too busy to notice that those around them are human beings, with needs and sensitivities just like their own. So while they may be nice people in the sense that they mean well, they do a lot of damage to others because they fail to see that those around them have the same human feelings as they do. Amazingly, it is often you and I who fit this description! Yet, once we come to this recognition our behavior can change dramatically.</P><P>This Shmuz focuses us on the concept that by becoming sensitive to other people's needs, not only do I become a truly nice guy, I begin that long road to spiritual perfection, by becoming more similar to our Creator, the source of all giving kindness in this world.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Fri, 05 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#47 - Cognitive Restrucing</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/47.mp3" length="14150856" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>The last of the Ten Commandments is You shall not covet. Simply stated one should not be desirous of his neighbors property, possessions or any attribute that he may have. On the face of things this seems to be a very difficult mitzvah to observe. If my neighbor has something that is beautiful, he owns a magnificent home, he drives a beautiful car or has a fantastic job, isn't it human nature to feel jealous? How can the Torah ask me to do something that goes against the very nature of man? Granted the Torah can tell me not to take revenge, or not to take out my frustration on my neighbor, but how can the Torah expect me to control that which I feel in my heart-- something, clearly out of my control</P><P>In this Shmuz we are introduced to a fundamental concept in personal growth: that our very emotional needs and desires are moldable. Not only can we change what we do, we can change our very attitudes and even the way that we feel about things. The primary system in this process is cognitive restructuring, reshaping the way that we thing about things, what we value, how we feel, and ultimately what we aspire to. This is a fundamental concept for many areas of growth in life.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 04 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#46 - Greatness of Man- Beyond our Understanding</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/46.mp3" length="13759768" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>Chazal teach us that HASHEM would have created the entire world for one man: the sun, the moon and the stars, the planets and constellations, the oceans, the rivers and the birds -- all for one human being. The question is what exactly is so great about man? What is so fantastically meaningful and significant about one man that it was worth creating all of heaven and earth just for him?</P><P>Using the famous event of Hillels students following him to the bathhouse as a backdrop, we are brought to a new understanding of the significance of Man and what is expected from him a mindset very much missing from Western Thought.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 03 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#45 - WYSIWYG- Developing Willpower</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/45.mp3" length="14278907" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>Its true that Im not quite where I hope to be one day. Its even true that there are many thoughts that go through my head that Im not proud of. I am still selfish and self centered, and there are many things that I feel that I would be deeply ashamed of if anyone else knew about them. But its OK, because one day I will change.</P><P>This Shmuz focuses us on the shocking realization that as I am at the last moment of life, exactly as I am, is how I will be for eternity. The same attitudes, thoughts and desires that course through my mind now will be a part of me forever. When I leave this earth -WYSIWYG- What You See Is What You Get. I will be exactly as I am now, with one difference; you and everyone else will be able to see me, exactly as I am, with all of my positive thoughts and all of my negative ones. This Shmuz also brings us to understand the preciousness of life, -- that as long as there is a breath in my being, I can change -- I can shape myself; mold myself into what I will be for eternity.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Tue, 02 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#44 - Bar Kamtza - Do you really have Free Will?</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/44.mp3" length="13006936" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>I accept that each persons life span is set before they are born. I also accept that the question is visited on Rosh Hashanah when Hashem decides who will live and who will die. All that is fine and well, until I pick up a gun and say to myself, cant I decide to end that persons life? Isnt it obvious that whether that person will live or die is now in my hands?</P><P>Using the Tisha BAv Gemarah as a backdrop we are brought into some of philosophys deepest questions: resolving the issue of how much of life is in HASHEMs control, and how much is in mans.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 01 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#43 - Soton out of the Box</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/43.mp3" length="13267398" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>It seems that it should be easier now to grow than in any previous generation. We have wealth, luxuries, freedom from oppression, and we have time. We enjoy so many time saving devices and conveniences that it would surely seems that we are finally free to sit and learn. And in fact, it seems that we should be able to reach great heights - and yet it is harder than ever to serve Hashem. It seems that somehow in earlier generations it was just easier to sit and learn, but why</P><P>This Shmuz focuses on the one area that the Soton was given control over in this generation, that one area he is allowed full control over, the one area he is allowed to go full power...&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 31 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#42 - Tricks of the Soton</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/42.mp3" length="13276190" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>Chazal tell us that Hashem created a malach whose sole job it is to trip up man -- to get us to sin, to get us to fail, to get us to mess up.</P><P>Where is he? <BR>What voice does he speak with? <BR>How can I identify him?</P><P>For most of us, without direct guidance from chazal it is difficult to quantify and identify the soton. Does he speak in my head? Whose voice does he use? How can I tell?</P><P>This Shmuz brings us face to face with a powerful force that is foreign to western thought, and requires great understanding to recognize.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 30 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#41 - Rebbe Akiva and Rochel, Potential of the Individual</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/41.mp3" length="10828916" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P><FONT face=Arial color=#333366>At the age of 40, Akiva the shepherd went off to learn and transformed himself into the Torah giant known throughout history. We all know the basic story line, but we may not know that he promptly quit and set back home -- a failure. One event changed his life and gave him the strength and fortitude to turn back and succeed. Detailing the events of Rebbe Akivas struggle, the story of sacrifice, failure and eventual success, we are introduced to some of the most moving events that shaped this great leader of men.</FONT</P><P><FONT face=Arial color=#333366>An inspiring lesson to all of us who at one time or other felt, Im not cut out for learning.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR></FONT</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Fri, 29 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#40 - Acher, The Importance of Torah, Founding an Organization</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/40.mp3" length="12169288" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>Elisha Ben Avuha was one of the greatest Torah scholars who ever lived--He was a tanna, a great Torah teacher, and the rebbe of Rebbe Meir -- until he became Acher, the Heretic. In that state he undid all of the good that he had accomplished, and did things that were purely evil. Yet, when he died, he wasnt allowed into Gehenom, because of the merit of Torah until his student, Rebbe Meir, begged for mercy.</P><P>Through this gripping story we are introduced to the value of Torah learning, the one act that can never leave a person. A great motivating Shmuz for setting goals and succeeding in learning.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 28 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#39 - I Need, Needs</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/39.mp3" length="13299769" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>It is clear that Hashem is capable -- very capable. It is also clear that Hashem has great wisdom -- enough wisdom and capacity to create the cosmos and all that it contains, with words alone -- from galaxies that stretch over billons of light years, to tiny amoeba that float in a sea of flotsam, all parts of the whole, all harmoniously integrated, all so seemingly perfect. Yet Hashem created man incomplete, with many needs. It seems that Hashem could have created man to be much less needy - yet Hashem didnt.</P><P>This Shmuz focuses us on the importance of needs in our life. And we come away with the understandings that not only arent these" needs" frivolous things to be rejected; they are actually an essential part of the growth process of life.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 27 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#38 - Where is Hashem, The Sixth Level of Emunah</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/38.mp3" length="14160522" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>We are trained from our school years to say boruch Hashem and im yirtzeh Hashem. Yet it seems that something is lacking. While we mouth the words that Hashem is responsible and we thank Hashem, if we are honest with ourselves we will soon recognize that what is lacking from our sentiments is Hashem. The sense of Hashems presence and involvement in our life that we talk about is what is missing from our understanding.</P><P>Understanding the sixth and highest level of emunah, we are brought to understand some of the deepest thoughts of which man is capable.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Tue, 26 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#37 - Three Types of Miracles, The Fifth Level of Emunah</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/37.mp3" length="12708589" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>Hashem created this world. Hashem orchestrates this world but there is another dimension of Hashems relationship with this world -- Hashem is the maintainer of this world.</P><P>A very deep Shmuz that deals with the way that HASHEM interacts with this world, and directly deals with some fundamental questions: <BR> How I can have free will, when HASHEM knows what I am going to do?<BR> How can HASHEM be in so many different places at the same time?<BR>&nbsp;<BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 25 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#36 - For the Love of Money</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/36.mp3" length="16444243" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>I heard hes worth 10 million dollars, is not so uncommon an expression for us to hear, even within our own community. The reality is that to many people, their self worth is equal to their net worth. While we assume that our values come exclusively from a Torah Perspective and not from the world around us, the reality is that the world we live in has a real effect on our thoughts and attitudes. In our society money has a prominence and significance that affects even bnai Torah</P><P>This Shmuz helps us focus on the Torahs view of money and how to shape our attitudes towards it.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 24 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#35 - Hashem and Man: Master and Servant (Understanding Humility)</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/35.mp3" length="14383941" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>We know the Torah gave us a specific mitzvah - to work on our character traits, but how do I change my very basic, underlying emotional makeup? Much like as with any character trait, I didnt wake up in the morning and say, I just want to be a big, fat, arrogant buffoon. I didnt wake up and say, I]]>
<![CDATA[would like to consider myself the most important human on the planet G-d's gift to humanity. But what can I do? Thats how I feel. Now what?</P><P>This Shmuz helps us deal with the gaavah, arrogance, as it functions in our lives.<BR> How do I recognize if I am affected by this trait?<BR> How do I work on this issue</P><P>Understanding our relationship with HASHEM is the first line of defense against arrogance, and as it turns out, the sense of humility is central to all of avodas HASHEM.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 23 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#34 - Isreal: Exalted Nation / Oppressed People (Why Did G-d Allow the Holocaust to Happen?)</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/34.mp3" length="11415215" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>Throughout history all things change, the only constant that seems to cross all cultural and time barriers, is that everyone hates the Jew.</P><P>Is there a Torah perspective that can explain why the Jewish nation is so tortured and oppressed? If we accept that G-D controls what happens on this earth is there a reason why His nation, the Chosen People are so downtrodden? Are there forces involved that control the very destiny of Israel</P><P>This Shmuz explores some of the underlying causes of the Jewish Nations state throughout history, including the Why behind the Holocaust.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Fri, 22 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#33 - Where Was G-D During the Holocaust?</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/33.mp3" length="26028381" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>We read about the Holocaust, we study about the holocaust, we memorialize the Holocaust, and yet it seems that this question isnt dealt with. Where was G-d during the Holocaust? Yet, isnt this one of the most basic questions a thinking person must deal with</P><P>Tracing the historical rise of Nazism and Adolph Hitler, a strong case is made for seeing the presence of G-d during these horrific times.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 21 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#32 - Understanding Nature, Putting the 'WOW' Back Into Nature</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/32.mp3" length="13665487" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>Who can look at a sunset and not say Wow, look at the beauty of this world.? Yet, it seems that we rarely do that. It is almost as if we are detached from the natural world -- As if the world of lions and tigers and bears is a place reserved for taking our children to when they are little, but has no connection to our lives</P><P>The Rishonim tell us that the surest way to come to understand that there is a creator of the world is to look at the creation and say just that. Wow! Look at the wisdom, look at the vastness; look at the sophistication of this world. But looking at the world with an eye to see its creator requires attention and training.</P><P>This Shmuz helps us focus on the Wow behind nature thereby allowing us to be moved by the awe inspiring miracles with which HASHEM has created the world in which we live.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 20 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#31 - The Voice Inside</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/31.mp3" length="12029861" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>Have you ever heard of something called a guilty conscience? What about a Jewish guilty conscience? While we all recognize that Voice Inside, that seems to moralize and lecture to us when we have stepped over the line, we assume that this is just one of those things that we have to sort of ignore.</P><P>In this Shmuz we are brought to understand that Voice that HASHEM put inside every human is actually a highly sophisticated tool --almost a moral compass-- that will allow us to find our path amongst the many choices that life brings our way.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Tue, 19 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#30 - Anger Management</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/30.mp3" length="16102679" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>We all know that anger is bad and if we have ever gotten into a situation where we lost our temper, we certainly wished that we hadnt --but what can I do? This is the way I react. He said something, I saw red and exploded. That is just my nature. I didnt ask to be born this way, and there is nothing that I can do about it. Right?</P><P>In this Shmuz we are introduced to the motivation and the mechanics of doing that most difficult of tasks -really changing ourselves.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 18 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#29 - The Busy Generation</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/29.mp3" length="12668059" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>While we boast of more labor saving devices that ever before in history, It seems that we are busier today than we have ever been. In fact, we are so busy that we dont even have the time to ask ourselves what is that we are so busy with</P><P>This Shmuz focuses us on attitudes and perspectives that we pick up from the society in which we live attitudes that may be against what the Torah views as ideal, and even against what common sense says is intelligent.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 17 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#28 - People Believe what they want to Believe</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/28.mp3" length="14738381" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>If Hashem would just show me one miracle, then I would really believe. If Hashem would just show me one clear sign -- it would change my life. This premise that seeing a miracle would make a person believe is brought into sharp relief by one central question: Why didnt the ancient Egyptians believe in Hashem? They experienced all of the greatest miracles ever shown. They lived through the greatest manifestation of Hashems hand, and yet they didnt come to believe in Hashem.</P><P>Through illustrating some of the miracles shown in Mitzraim we come to a new understanding of what causes a person to believe.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 16 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#27 - Respecting the Institution, America the Beautiful</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/27.mp3" length="13757429" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>We live in a world of disrespect. Children dont respect parents. Students dont respect teachers, spouses dont respect each other and I certainly cant respect a President or world leader who gives in to his every passion and whim.</P><P>In this Shmuz we find that Torah has a very different understanding of respect, and who is worthy of respect. We are introduced to the Torahs concept of respecting the institution even if we dont respect the person. And we are brought to focus on the tremendous sense of appreciation we must have for all the good that we experience living in this land.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Fri, 15 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#26 - Loshon Horah, Squandering our Olam Habbah</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/26.mp3" length="16192739" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>Of course loshon horah is forbidden. We know it was the prime cause of the destruction of the Bais HaMikdash, and of course we know that we arent supposed to speak it--yet we do. A big part of the reason is that we dont really see it as wrong, we dont see it as damaging, and we certainly dont see the act of speaking as something that will cost us in the future</P><P>This Shmuz is a powerful introduction to the effects that our words have on other peoples lives in this world, and on ours in the World to Come.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 14 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#25 - They Dont Make Anti Semites Like They Used To</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/25.mp3" length="17506290" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P</P><P>Over the course of history, it seems that there has been no shortage of anti-Semites, people who truly hate Jews and would do anything in their power to put an end to the Jewish Problem. Yet it also seems that if you ask the common anti-Semite, why is it that you hate the Jew? Likely, he wouldnt be able to answer. I know that you dream about their demise- but why? What is it about them that bothers you so? Yet there was a time when anti-Semites not only hated Jews, but they could tell you why. And that reason is very important for us as Jews to understand.</P><P>Using Megillas Esther as the background for the Shmuz, we are introduced to the Torahs understanding of why there is Anti-Semitism in the world.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 13 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#23 - I willl never die. Not me. No way.</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/23.mp3" length="17414390" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P><BR>&nbsp;<BR>&nbsp;While this may be philosophys greatest question, isnt it something that any thinking person must answer: What is my purpose in existence? Drawing from The Path of the Just, this Shmuz focuses us on finding the true meaning and purpose of our life</P><P>What is my purpose in life?<BR>What are my true core values?<BR>What does it mean after death I will live on? I will be dead!&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Tue, 12 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#24 - Understanding Life Settings</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/24.mp3" length="14631184" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>It almost seems as if some people are born with a silver spoon in their mouth, while others are destined to suffer. Why is it is that some people are born with amazing capacity, and others are created so simple? Why is there autism in the world? Why Down Syndrome? If in fact God is just, why not mete out talents and abilities in an equal manner to all people</P><P>Using the backdrop of a famous event brought in the Talmud; this Shmuz focuses us on some of the big picture issues of life, helping us understand life settings, as they apply to each person.<BR> Why are some people blessed with success and others not?<BR> Is there a reason for suffering in the world?<BR> What about pain?<BR> What about death?<BR>&nbsp;<BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 11 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#22 - Evolution - Does it Make Sense?</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/22.mp3" length="17186475" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>To many of us the issue of belief in the Creator boils down to logic against faith. As if from a purely rational, intellectual point of view it would appear that the world evolved, and we who believe have to hold on to our faith against the onslaught of logic and scientific discoveries.</P><P>In this Shmuz we are asked to look at matters from a very different vantage point, namely: that which passes in the media as popular science, is neither popular nor science. And the reality is that from a dispassionate position of pure logic, the basic premise that the world just occurred on its own, is so implausible as to make it almost untenable. In the end we are brought to the question: Does Evolution make any sense?&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 10 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#21 - Choosing a Career</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/21.mp3" length="14402090" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>It is clear that Hashem wants man to work for a living. But is there a particular profession that I should I be doing to make a living? Does the Torah have a formula for me to figure out exactly what line of work I should pursue? Using the system explained by the Chovos Halevovos we are given clear directions towards finding the right way for me to earn my living.</P><P>(Essential hashkafa for a person just starting out on their professional path, as well as for an individual who is already well established.)&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 09 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#20 - Davening - Making it Real</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/20.mp3" length="12317041" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>Of course we daven. Three times a day. Everyday. The question is how real our davening is, and to whom are we davening. It often seems that our davening is more talking to the walls than talking to Hashem. This Shmuz helps us focus on some of the most basic principles in Judaism, things we always knew, yet take for granted, and are so critical for our growth as religious Jews and thinking people.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Fri, 08 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#19 - Free will - Part 2: I Never Do Anything Wrong</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/19.mp3" length="13287231" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>In this introduction to emunah, we are presented with four basic levels of belief: 1. Hashem created the world. 2. Hashem is involved in the really big picture issues - war, famine, life and death. 3. Hashem knows my inner thoughts. 4. Hashem is intimately involved in my day to day life. After outlining and defining the levels, we are given practical techniques to improve our level of belief in all four categories, so that we can not only know in our minds these understandings, but actually feel them.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 07 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#18 - The Difference Between Emunah and Bitachon - Four Levels To Emunah</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/18.mp3" length="15731079" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>Did you ever notice that no one does anything wrong? It seems that no matter how clear it is to you and me that this person is engaged in self destructive behavior, he doesn't admit that he is doing something wrong or harmful; rather he comes up with an entire rationale why it is good and in fact proper</P><P>To allow for Free Will, we humans had to be given this ability to rationalize away our behavior, to view what we do, whatever we do, as right and proper, because otherwise we could never allow ourselves to do something that is "wrong". Using some commonplace examples, we are brought to focus on both our need to explain away what we do as justified, and what we can do to grow beyond this most human failing.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 06 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#17 - Acquiring Olam Habba The Easy Way, (Everyone Needs a Mike)</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/17.mp3" length="15970702" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>We spend our life trying to gain Olam Habbah. All of our learning, all of our chessesd, all of our davening, is directed towards creating what I will be forever. Yet sometimes it seems that we work harder and not smarter towards our goal.</P><P>In this Shmuz, we are introduced to a simple method to dramatically increase our portion in Olam Habbah- a smarter way.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Tue, 05 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#16 - Olam Habba: The Greatest Motivator</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/16.mp3" length="14325307" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>Alan Dershowitz, in his book The Vanishing Jew, describes that as part of a course he taught in Harvard Law school, one of his co-professors decided to rate G-d. They decided to sit in judgment of Hashem, to determine how good a job He did when He created this world. Their conclusion? They found much good, much wisdom and forethought, but they also found much suffering and pain, needless pain. So on balance they gave G-d a B-.</P><P>Forgetting about the absurdity of a flesh and blood man judging G-d, the question is valid. If in fact HASHEM is all good, and if in fact HASHEM created this world to give to man, it surely would seem that HASHEM could have done a better job at creating man and this world.</P><P>This Shmuz brings us to understand some of the most basic issues that a Ben Torah must fully comprehend in terms of why HASHEM created this world and what HASHEM has in mind for man.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 04 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#15 - Chanukah G-d fights Our Wars</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/15.mp3" length="15058974" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>What actually happened in the war to recapture the Bais Hamikdash? How many battles were fought? How long did they last? What was it like living in Yerushlayim at the time</P><P>Detailing the story of Chanukah as brought in Megillas Chashmonaim, this Shmuz brings us closer to understanding the events of the time, and appreciating the miracle that unfolded. It then takes us forward in time to some modern miracles that seem to overshadow even those of the Chanukah time period.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 03 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#14 - Living like a Rock</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/14.mp3" length="12619004" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>What if I just live my life, as any other occupant of this planet? What is so bad about that? Lets say, I am no worse than Joe the UPS driver, or Bob the mechanic, will Hashem really be upset with me?</P><P>In this Shmuz we are brought to understand how great the human is, and how much he can accomplish. Within the context of this understanding the question of What am I accomplishing with my life?, becomes much more acute -- if I truly have great potential and I am wasting it- if I am living like a rock, will I be held responsible to answer for this?&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 02 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#13 - Free Will, Part 1: Nefesh Habahami, Nefesh Hasichli</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/13.mp3" length="11934347" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>Has there ever been a time when you reacted to something, and you couldnt believe that it was you who was speaking that way? Have you ever said something and had a feeling of, What came over me it was as if I were possessed</P><P>In this introduction to the inner workings of the human being, we come face to face with the understanding that I am created from very diverse elements. Within me are different forces pulling in opposite directions. Not only isnt this accidental, it is actually a necessary component of FREE WILL. Free Will means that I could go either way. It is my choice, not something that I was programmed to do that made me choose this way. Yet without this there would be no temptation, and Man would do good - only good, not because he chose to, but because he was programmed for it, hence there would be no Free Will.</P><P>In this integral introduction to the complexity of the human we are given a glimpse into understanding the forces behind the different behaviors within ourselves.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>#12 - People of Principle</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/12.mp3" length="11670057" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>We know the Avos and Imahos were great individuals -- but what made them so great? Where did they get the moral courage to see what was right, and stick to it against all external pressures</P><P>Through the famous story of Rochel giving up her husband to her sister Leah so as not to embarrass her, we are introduced to some of the basic ingredients that shape any great persons success the moral strength to be a person of principle.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 31 Dec 2009 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>11 - Kibud Av of Eisav - Appreciating Parents</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/11.mp3" length="13363828" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>Of course we appreciate our parents. Of course we respect them. Isnt that only natural? Doesnt everyone? And yet we dont. We live in a society that doesnt seem to know the meaning of the word respect. There is no respect for authority, no respect for institutions, no respect for elders, and even no respect for ourselves. Unfortunately, we are affected by this, and this lack of respect goes so far as to shape our relationships, and the way we relate even to people that we love.</P><P>This Shmuz deals with some of the basic concepts of human relations and introduces us to eye opening insights about respect in general.&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 30 Dec 2009 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>10 - Questioning G-d: Finding and Keeping Your Bashert</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/10.mp3" length="24883877" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>The Shadchan says, "So tell me, what are you looking for?" And, out comes the laundry list</P><P>"I need someone who is extroverted, funny, and outgoing.</P><P>"I need a woman who is very frum, good, kind, tolerant, and funny.</P><P>"I need a guy who is tall, a take-charge type, strong but not headstrong.</P><P>And unwittingly, many people make the first mistake of the dating game - they aren't looking for their Bashert- they have already formed him in their minds, and now are out to find the one that comes the closest to that image</P><P>It is almost like the children's toy Mr. Potato Head. You get to design the doll, choose red lips, big ears, small eyes, short legs</P><P>Before going out most people go through a sort of personal inventory: "Let's see. Since I am., I need" Unconsciously, they put together a wish list of qualities to take out into the market place. Then amazingly, they find themselves frustrated. "I just can't find Mr. Right.</P><P>This is a must-listen-to Shmuz offering a practical down to earth way to avoid the two most common mistakes made in finding and keeping your Bashert</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Tue, 29 Dec 2009 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>09 - Akaidas Yitzchak</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/09.mp3" length="12737281" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>After all is said and done, what was so great about the Akeidah? Throughout history many people have been called upon and have made great sacrifices. Yet this single act echoes through the millennia. What was so unique about what Avrahom did? What was so special about the way he did it? And more pointedly, what relevance does it have for us some 3,700 years later?&nbsp; <BR>&nbsp;<BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Mon, 28 Dec 2009 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>08 - Power of Prayer</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/08.mp3" length="9160992" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>&nbsp; We all daven, and on some level we know that Davening works. But do we really understand it? Do we really understand that our prayers have an effect on our lives? Do we really understand that my davening can change the circumstances of my life</P><P>This Shmuz helps us understand the profound effect that tefilah can have on situations and settings that directly affect our lives.&nbsp;</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sun, 27 Dec 2009 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>07 - Noach - Understanding Belief</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/07.mp3" length="11207466" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>By all accounts Noach was a Tzadik. Yet he didnt go into the teivah until the water forced him in. Rashi tells us the reason was that Noach Believed and he didnt believe. Whilst he knew that Hashem was going to bring a mabul, he still doubted it. What seems perplexing is that Hashem spoke to Noach telling him there would be a flood. Not only that, but Noach had spent the last 120 years building a teivah for the flood. How was it possible that he didn't believe that Hashem was actually going to bring the flood?</P><P>Through this Shmuz we are introduced to one of the most fundamental concepts in belief, and why in fact true faith is so difficult for us.&nbsp;</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Sat, 26 Dec 2009 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>06 - It's not Geneivah, It's Shtick</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/06.mp3" length="12075060" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>It is very difficult for us human beings to accept that we do things that are wrong, and so we rationalize. We create illusions and fanciful stories that we ourselves dont believe. And so, you will find intelligent, otherwise rational people saying things like, Of course I wouldnt steal, stealing is dishonest, but this isnt stealing .Its shtick. We mach shtick. We mach Shtick with the tickets, mach shtick with the regents. But its O.K because its not stealing; its only shtick</P><P>This Shmuz helps us identify something that has become blight in our community, the lack of a true sense of integrity in all of our dealings.</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Fri, 25 Dec 2009 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>05 - Appreciating Our Wealth</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/05.mp3" length="11827212" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>Never in the history of man have so many people enjoyed so much material wealth and possessions. The average tax paying citizen of today enjoys riches and comforts that kings of yesteryear couldnt envision or imagine -- and yet it seems that we dont appreciate what we have. We become so accustomed to the extraordinary wealth we possess that we no longer think of it as riches; we even start asking, How could anyone live without it</P><P>This Shmuz focuses on the wealth that we enjoy, and helps us come to a sense of appreciation to our Creator for all that He has given us.&nbsp; <BR</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Thu, 24 Dec 2009 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>04 - Appreciating Olam Hazeh</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/04.mp3" length="13083400" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>If a person looks at the features of this world they will quickly see that Hashem invested great wisdom and care in making man &amp;apos;s stay on the planet enjoyable. From the different foods, each one with its unique flavor, aroma and textures; to the colors of flowers and magnificent sea scapes , so much of the beauty of this world was not necessary. It is clear that Hashem put much thought into creating a world that man can enjoy. The question is, Do we in fact enjoy it?</P><P> This Shmuz focuses on the Torah's attitude towards enjoying the pleasures of this world. This may come as a surprise to some people.</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Wed, 23 Dec 2009 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>03 - Yom Kippur The power of Teshuvah</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/03.mp3" length="12075060" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[<P>Using the event of Eliezer Bar Dudia gaining the title of Rebbe, we are introduced to one of the greatest acts of teshuvah ever achieved by a human. We witness a human rise from the depths of depravity to the heights of spirituality in the course of a few hours. Through the story of his life, we see what a man accomplished in but a day -- and we are brought to a new appreciation of how great the potential of the human being is.</P>]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>Tue, 22 Dec 2009 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<title>02 - Rosh Hashanah Issues of the Day</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/02.mp3" length="11827212" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ <P>Rosh Hashanah Issues of the Da</P> ]]>
</description>
</item>
<item>
<pubDate>
</pubDate>
<title>01 - Eternal People</title>
<link>TheShmuz.com</link>
<author>Rabbi B. Shafier</author>
<enclosure url="http://theshmuz.com/podcast/01.mp3" length="13083400" type="audio/mpeg" />
<description>
<![CDATA[ <P>Eternal People</P> ]]>
</description>
</item>
</channel>
</rss>
Sign up for free to join this conversation on GitHub. Already have an account? Sign in to comment