Egocentrism

Most people in the United States of America are self centered.

Jewish in Toledo, Ohio. Is it Pay to Pray?

Good news for retired senior Jewish people in the Greater Toledo Ohio Area. Baruch HaShem! See the following 'copy and paste' email message from Rabbi Yossi Shemtov:

B"H

September 7, 2023 21 Elul, 5783

Dear Friends,

Over the last few years, my eyes have been opened to an underappreciated treasure in our community.

During Covid, we expanded our outreach to seniors and the homebound. We brought food, caring, and a helping hand to many.

Interacting with many who in better times passed under our radar, it really hit us how much we as a society and a community are losing collectively and individually by not accessing this treasure.

This treasure?

A third of our lives!

The lives of our retirees!

The lives of our seniors!

Why are we pushing this treasure aside when it has so much to give?

If all the world is a stage, you are the main actor. In a play, the third act is when everything begins to fall into place and make sense.

In our world today the first act of life is mainly about education and youthful exuberance, the second act is mostly about career and family, and the third act today is retirement and aging.

We are ushering people off the stage of life just when their story is coming together!

This is a travesty! When we have so much to give we are told to golf or are mothballed. We are seen as irrelevant or worst of all not seen at all.

As a society, we are squandering our greatest assets: the experience, wisdom, and life of our people. As individuals many of us are lacking the opportunities and infrastructure to continue our growth.

To live is to grow. Every moment of life should have meaning. As Jews, we understand that every moment of life HAS meaning. There is a purpose in every stage and situation.

The Lubavitcher Rebbe would stress that at a time when the obligations and responsibilities of career are lessening, it is a time to increase our focus on our own spiritual growth and a time to pursue Torah wisdom and selfactualization as an individual and as a Jew.

We discovered that here in Greater Toledo there are at least three different communities among those who were retired: A) the healthy, connected, vibrant members, B) those living independently, with some limitations due to health, mobility, isolation, or finances, and C) residents of assisted living facilities.

Meeting the ever-changing needs of the Toledo Jewish Community is the backbone of our mission. We see it as imperative for us to serve the needs of those in the third act of their life and beyond. We also realized that we needed someone dedicated to this mission.

We’re delighted to announce that Rabbi Dov Ber and Rivka, along with their infant son Levi, have just arrived in Toledo to join Chabad. They have come to expand the work we began: reaching out to seniors in our Jewish community who are isolated or shut in, to bring them a challah, a smile, a sympathetic ear with time to listen and converse, attention to unmet needs and, not least, spiritual inspiration about the dignity of their lives as an integral part of our Jewish community.

Thank G-d most today have the means to live. Our goal is to help others live with meaning. Most importantly, Rabbi and Rivka are determined to create opportunities and programs, to learn, celebrate, and strengthen the bonds of seniors with one another. They hope to create opportunities for seniors to contribute from their vast experience to society, especially teenagers and children.

Chabad is especially grateful to Lenny Rosenberg, alav hasholom, whose generous bequest has been a catalyst in enabling us to bring Rabbi Dov Ber and Rivka to Toledo, as well as to all of our other donors and supporters. Additionally, Chabad received a $100,000 grant, to be used over the course of two years ($50,000 per year), from Jewish Senior Services which will be used for this purpose.

Rabbi Dov Ber and Rivka look forward to meeting each and every one of you. In the meantime, if you have any questions, have any ideas for programs that our Seniors would enjoy or benefit from, or know of someone who would like a visit, please call or email me.

Rabbi Yossi Shemtov 

Chabad House-Lubavitch of Greater Toledo

I was born of a Jewish mother who herself had been born in an area of Eastern Europe known at the time as Podolia Guberniya, an area of the Pale of Settlement in the Russian Empire that in the present day is in Ukraine. From an Orthodox Jewish family, my mother raised me in the Reform movement of Judaism. My three children attended the weekend religious school of Toledo's Reform Jewish synagogue in which they were consecrated and confirmed. I am Jewish and appreciate all Jewish denominations. While I was born an Orthodox Jew, I was raised and confirmed in 1962 in Toledo Ohio's Reform Jewish Congregation and now I identify with transdenominational Judaism as a Jewish Universalist. Over the years, I have attended services of Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform Jewish congregations and also of Chabad. Nowadays, I most regularly cyber attend services of the Jewish Universalist Sim Shalom Online Synagogue, in addition to which I also cyber attend several other Jewish online services of various denominations.

Although I am not Lubavitch, let alone Orthodox, I have much respect for Chabad. I certainly appreciate the services that Chabad has provided to everyone in our community and especially to the elderly population in which I am a part.

Chabad House of Toledo has a beautiful building complete with offices, social room, sanctuary, and mikvah; and yet, Chabad House requires no membership dues for attending religious services, special activities & programs, or for special services to seniors, and more. Compare that to the Toledo area  Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform synagogues that require dues paid membership for all those things. On top of that, the three synagogues require higher membership dues for retired senior citizens than those for younger employed persons. My wife and I are both 75 (76 for me at the end of November) living on fixed retirement pension. According to the local synagogue dues structures for a retired couple our age, the synagogues' annual membership dues range from $2200.00 to $2517.00. The membership dues for an employed couple aged 38 ranges from $1200.00 to $1221.00.

In order to attend religious services for the High Holy Days, i.e. Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, the Toledo area Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform Synagogues require local residents to have admission tickets which are free for dues paid members but must be purchased ($100.00+ for each person) by local residents who are not dues paid members. Not so for services at Chabad where all Jews are welcome with open arms with no membership dues or purchased tickets required. Indeed, the following is a 'copy and paste' of an e-mail I received as I was composing this specific Roland Hansen Commentary:

Something for EVERYONE!

From: Rabbi Yossi Shemtov 

Dear Friend,

We are thrilled to invite you and your loved ones to celebrate the High Holidays at Chabad House!

We believe that every Jew deserves a welcoming and meaningful High Holiday experience. That's why we've designed our array of programs and services with you and your family in mind. We are proud to be a home away from home to people of all walks of life, something you will sense as soon as you walk through the door.

From the warm welcome you receive upon entering, to the engaging (sometimes humorous) running commentary, to the soul-stirring tunes, to the acclaimed community wide programs for children of every age, to delicious cuisine, we've created the perfect environment for you to learn a bit, laugh a bit, pray, reflect and grow.

For services information, kids program, seat reservations please click here

For Shofar-On-The-Lawn reservations please click here

We hope to see you to share these special times together! The Toledo Jewish Senior Services agency often, but not always, requires a minimum donation to the Toledo Jewish Federation in addition to an activity fee in order to attend activities, events, and programs.

For the life of me, I do not understand why the elderly are required to pay to be participants in Jewish Synagogue and Community Life!!!

In regards to the Toledo, Ohio area Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform Synagogues, there is a larger question of being Jewish in Toledo, Ohio. Is it Pay to Pray?

Facts, The News, and Trump Supporters.

Then again, there are the avid supporters of Donald J. Trump, who have a total disregard to facts preferring to worship a false god.

My Life My Way

I have been called a fool, a loose cannon, abrasive, arrogant, and just about every vulgar foul word in existence.

Many people have voiced their displeasure of me for not agreeing with them, for not going along to get along, for speaking out against that which I believe is wrong, for speaking up for that which I believe is right, and for being the person I am rather than the person they want me to be. 

Well, as I approach the end of days, my end of days, there is a song that pops into my head from time to time that I think I would choose to be my epitaph, albeit a long epitaph.

The song "My Way" has been performed by many artists. Each of them can honestly say, "I did it my way."

-----------------------------------

My Way

And now, the end is near;

And so I face the final curtain.

My friend, I’ll say it clear,

I’ll state my case, of which I’m certain.

I’ve lived a life that’s full.

I’ve traveled each and ev’ry highway;

And more, much more than this,

I did it my way.

Regrets, I’ve had a few;

But then again, too few to mention.

I did what I had to do

And saw it through without exemption.

I planned each charted course;

Each careful step along the byway,

But more, much more than this,

I did it my way.

Yes, there were times, I’m sure you knew

When I bit off more than I could chew.

But through it all, when there was doubt,

I ate it up and spit it out.

I faced it all and I stood tall;

And did it my way.

I’ve loved, I’ve laughed and cried.

I’ve had my fill; my share of losing.

And now, as tears subside,

I find it all so amusing.

To think I did all that;

And may I say – not in a shy way,

No, oh no not me,

I did it my way.

For what is a man, what has he got?

If not himself, then he has naught.

To say the things he truly feels;

And not the words of one who kneels.

The record shows I took the blows –

And did it my way!

-----------------------------------

This Roland Hansen Commentary entry was originally published April 15, 2018 on my Facebook wall. 

A Person's Words, Actions, Responsibilty, and Consequences.

 If a person says and/or does something, should the person take responsibility for, and be held accountable for, and accept the consequences of his or her own words and/or actions?

Some people see attributes in other people that displease them, but do not see those same attributes within themselves. Isn't that hypocrisy? Pot-Kettle-Black syndrome? In their own minds, they see it in others, but not in themselves.

Those same persons in paragraph two would answer "yes" to the question posed in paragraph one, but only apply that "yes" to other people and not to themselves. I have had far too many experiences with far too many people who fit into this category.

Historical Hatred of Jews

The Jewish People have been persecuted for thousands of years. 

Why are Jews hated so much? Why?

Read the article in the embedded link contained below:

Secret Mexican diary sheds light on Spanish Inquisition

I Have Lived My Life My Way!

Over my life of 75 years now, I have been called a fool, an embarassment to my family, a dirty communist, a loose cannon, abrasive, arrogant, and just about every vulgar foul word in existence.

Many people have voiced their displeasure of me for not agreeing with them, for not going along to get along, for speaking out against that which I believe is wrong, for speaking up for that which I believe is right, and for being the person I am rather than the person they want me to be. 

Well, as I approach the end of days, i.e. my end of days, there is a song that pops into my head from time to time that I think I would choose to be my epitaph, albeit a long epitaph.

The song "My Way" has been performed by many artists. Each of them can honestly say, "I did it my way."

My Way

And now, the end is near;

And so I face the final curtain.

My friend, I’ll say it clear,

I’ll state my case, of which I’m certain.

I’ve lived a life that’s full.

I’ve traveled each and ev’ry highway;

And more, much more than this,

I did it my way.

Regrets, I’ve had a few;

But then again, too few to mention.

I did what I had to do

And saw it through without exemption.

I planned each charted course;

Each careful step along the byway,

But more, much more than this,

I did it my way.

Yes, there were times, I’m sure you knew

When I bit off more than I could chew.

But through it all, when there was doubt,

I ate it up and spit it out.

I faced it all and I stood tall;

And did it my way.

I’ve loved, I’ve laughed and cried.

I’ve had my fill; my share of losing.

And now, as tears subside,

I find it all so amusing.

To think I did all that;

And may I say – not in a shy way,

No, oh no not me,

I did it my way.

For what is a man, what has he got?

If not himself, then he has naught.

To say the things he truly feels;

And not the words of one who kneels.

The record shows I took the blows –

And did it my way!

Physicians, The Medical (UN)Professionals

All too often, doctors keep patients waiting. If a doctor has been delayed due to another patient's urgent need or the doctor's own personal crisis, I understand. On the other hand, many doctor offices intentionally overbook patients causing the attending physician to run late and rush through their patients as if it were assembly line work. Regardless of the reason, in all situations, it is incumbent upon other staff members of the doctor's office to inform the waiting patient of the delay and to periodically do so at reasonable time intervals until the doctor arrives to see the waiting patient. 

I had a 1:30 p.m. follow-up appointment with my allergist today, February 14, 2023. I was prompt arriving a bit early. The med assistant promptly called for me to come on back, escorted me to the exam room, took my vitals, asked some questions as to how I was doing, etc. Upon finishing her duties, she left the exam room at 1:32 and told me the doctor would be in shortly. 

One half-hour later, the doctor had not yet seen me, nor had anyone else come into the exam room to check in on me or to inform me about the doctor being delayed. The doctor apparently did not think I had anything better to do than to wait around (for who knows how long) for her in a sterilized examination room twiddling my thumbs and staring at the blank walls. I kept my appointment, the doctor did not. Consequently, I left.

Professionalism involves more than occupational education and/or training requirements, knowledge, skills, and abilities, it also includes one's attitudes, behaviors, and treatment of one's clientele.

Attention: Trumplicans

In regards to Donald J. Trump, the Treacherous Fascist who attempted to overthrow the duly elected democratic government of the United States of America through the use of violent insurgents attacking the United States Capitol, the attached meme sums it up for the most part.

Under-appreciated Dads

So many fathers go under-appreciated in American society. I speak of fathers who have tried their best to raise their children, teaching them the ways of the world, supporting them in every way – – – emotionally as well as financially, loving them unconditionally, etc.

In my opinion, it is very commonplace, with some rare exceptions, that the large majority of Americans publicly and openly praise mothers expressing gratitude and appreciation for their mothers. This type of thing also occurs in regards to fathers, but with far less frequency, in my opinion.

Having stated all that, I am attaching the following for all the good dads out there.

[I realize that the word "grateful" is incorrectly spelled "greatful" in the attachment that I found elsewhere on the internet and of which I copied as is.]

Does Colonial Penn Life Insurance partake in Elder Exploitation?

It has been my understanding that exploitation of the elderly was illegal in the United States of America. But, I guess I have been wrong about that all along.

In my humble opinion, the barage of television advertising by Colonial Penn Life Insurance directed at senior citizens seems to be attempting to exploit the eldely, and is nothing more than a big CON JOB! Why Colonial Penn is allowed to target the elderly in what seems to me to be deceptive advertising in order to get money from the senior cirizen population is beyond me. I guess it can be chalked off to the twisted, perverted economic system known as American Capitalism. 

UFF DA!

Go on over to read "Don’t Be Misled By Colonial Penn Life Insurance For Seniors ($9.95)"

Some Random Thoughts About People In General

After having lived 75 years, it is my opinion that the vast majority of people are egocentric (not to be confused with egotistic), but fail to recognize or admit that they possess that personality characteristic. Many people are avid practitioners of egocentrism. They believe that the world revolves around them; and, they expect everyone else to conform to that belief by acting accordingly. If not, well, then you are toast!

People generally only want to hear what they want to hear. They do not want blunt honesty, they do not want to hear opinions or advice, even when they ask for it; they do not really care what you have to say. People want you to agree with them, they want you to sympathize with them, they want you to listen to whatever they wish to talk about without any feedback, they just want attention.

Far too many people throw other people away far too easily. Also, far too many people are too quick to run away from life challenges and do not even attempt to resolve or cope with those challenging difficulties. 

Many people do not truly place value on friendships. It seems that there are alot of people who throw away a friend or even a family member at the drop of a hat. For the most part, people are not willing to work at maintaining or improving interpersonal relationships.

All too often, people forget all the past good deeds and personal assistance rendered by others, such as their friends and relatives. These type of people just turn their heels on a dime and throw those friends and relatives under the bus at a moment’s whim.

People can have a long standing, close interpersonal relationship with another person, but then just fade away or suddenly pull away from that other person, and become someone whose words, behaviors, and actions are no longer recognizable to the person with whom they were once close. 

Many people blame other people for their own misgivings. They refuse to accept responsibility and be accountable for their own words and actions.

Most people formulate their opinions and jump to conclusions based on their own personal bias, prejudice, preconceived notions, and ego with total disregard to facts. I am reminded of this saying: "Don't confuse me with the facts, my mind is made up."

Many people totally lack civility in their political discourse with others when there is a difference of political opinion. Those people do not believe in being respectful of others when expressing opposing views. Instead, those folks find it necessary to personally attack the messenger (the individual person with whom they have a difference of opinion), becoming verbally abusive in a bullying manner rather than providing an intelligent point-counterpoint dialog based on facts, as opposed to hearsay.

Far, far too many Americans vote for increasing the size of their personal pocketbook rather than voting for increased opportunities of social development for all.

Regardless of claiming to be a positive person, most people tend to think in negative terms.

Far too many people say “I’ll call you tomorrow” or “I’ll see you tomorrow” or “We’ll get together soon” or any other number of things like that - and then, they fail to follow through.

People say something like they wish they were closer to their families, or they wish their family was closer, or they wish they had kept in better touch with their family members, or, or, or ….. And then do nothing about it. They do nothing to work at those family ties and bonds. 

As life goes on, many people think about the roads or paths not taken. Many people look back on the paths they have taken in life and express regrets. When they do so, they may think to themselves something in tune with the expression “I woulda, coulda, shoulda.” Even so, they continue upon the same old path without any real effort at making changes, let alone improvements. Then, at the next funeral they attend, they say “I wish I had …..” And still, nothing changes!

People are quick to find and point out faults in others of which they are extremely critical. They will even discontinue interpersonal relationships with others because of those "undesirable" personality characteristics. The irony is that oftentimes those judgmental people have the same characteristics within themselves that they fail to recognize.

People who treat others badly, or in a less-than-nice way, do not like it, and will even play the victim, when other people treat them that same way.