Pink Boots

I am often accused of looking Amish. Recently, a story appeared in the news that clearly highlighted a difference between the Jews and the Amish.

“A group of Amish men were sent to jail in western Kentucky Thursday for refusing to pay fines for breaking a state highway law that requires their horse-drawn buggies to be marked with orange reflective triangles.

“The men have a religious objection to the bright orange signs, which they say are flashy and conflict with their pledge to live low-key and religious lives.

The men belong to a conservative breakaway group of Amish known as Swartzentruber. They live simply, with no electricity, plumbing or appliances. But in recent years they have been running afoul of the law here for refusing to use the triangles on their buggies, and some were sent to jail last year.” - Fox News.com

The Ultra-Orthodox Jews cherish the old and shun much of the new. Yet, when it comes to the safety and caring for our sick - we go all out. Many laws are pushed aside to save the life a person. 

[One should consult with a prominent Orthodox Rabbi regarding the details - these laws can get quite complex.]

We would put on yellow hats and pink books if that were what public safety called for.

Debunking 'Chassidic Philosophy'

We often refer to Chassidus Chabad as ‘Chassidic Philosophy’.  I recently bumped into something that would strongly challenge that term. 

The word Philosophy originates from a Latin word that means ‘love of logic’.  In Chabad (which is an acronym for Wisdom, Understanding and Knowledge) we’re very into the brain.  But, (and this is a big BUT), it’s all in order to warm the heart - to love and fear G-d.

We don’t love logic – we love love!

Anyone have an idea for a new name?