I often write about creating a sense of community on the Beren Campus, using language and reference to my favorite period of American history (Transcendentalist 19th Century) to help articulate my thoughts. Something, however, that is crucial to the community of Transcendentalist thinkers is the idea that everyone can and should create her own sense […]
There’s a well known adage to “hope for the best but plan for the worst.” I think it’s safe to say that many of us have given a lot of emphasis to the first part, but have readily forgotten to properly prepare ourselves according to the second part. I, too, counted myself in this group […]
Eleven days into my senior year, I decided to try something new. Usually that involves some active effort: purchasing supplies, acquiring a skill set and/or participating in an activity. But this something new was different: it was about restraint and inactivity, it was a brave act of doing nothing at all. I was going to […]
I thought once I started college, I’d have life figured out–or at the very least, I’d have time to do so. I was quickly swept up with deciding my major (English Literature), wondering if I would have time time for a minor (Yes, American Studies), and asking myself if I would ever feel like I […]
Our brothers in Israel. Nowadays, it seems like every shul makes an appeal for their sake, every new song is dedicated in their honor, every prayer group is established in their name. I used to nod along with the appeals, listen to the songs, say a chapter of Tehillim (Psalms) or two along with the […]
Since my time at The Observer began, one question editors often contended with is that of anonymity. Occasionally a writer will submit a piece, often to the Opinion section, and not wish to be credited by name. Instead, he/she requests to be listed as “Anonymous.” Some editors are quick to give such a writer an […]
My grandmother’s voice asking me, “What are you most thankful for this year?” echoed in my ears as I washed the stacks of dirty dishes in my parents’ sink. With each rinse, I asked this question again, wondering what else I am thankful for that had fallen to the quiet corners of my brain during […]
“Eternal vigilance is the price of liberty.” These profound words were uttered by Wendell Phillips, an abolitionist and writer for The Liberator at his 1852 speech before the Massachusetts Antislavery Society. Although these words originated in the United States, there is much truth to this simple phrase, as it proved to be one of the […]
If you are a college student, the concepts of high tuition and student loans aren’t foreign to you. In fact, college costs have risen by 1,120% since 1978, and according to the U.S. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, more than 40 million Americans are holding 1.2 trillion dollars in student loan debt. Despite these alarming statistics, […]
Do You Know Who I Am? Wait, Don’t Tell Me…
I estimate that close to three-quarters of the Stern population work — in some capacity or other — with individuals with special needs, whether it be through HASC, Yachad or Ohel Bais Ezra; most likely more than one of you work with my older sister who has special needs, and who lives in a group […]