To everyone in the USA, I hope you had a great Thanksgiving.
Yet another Thanksgiving away from America. What did I do?
At 9a.m. St Andrews was honored to host a small visit from Chief Lord Rabbi Jonathan Sacks. Only a small number atteneded, but among the attendees was the University's Chaplian, the Jewish Society's Committee (my self included), faculty members and other students. An introduction was given by a famous philosophy professor who years prior was assigned to present Rabbi Sacks with an honorary degree. In the introduction Rabbi Sacks' lectures on education were highlighted as were other parts of his long history as a Rabbi.
Rabbi Sacks chose to give us a lecture about an old debate regarding Chanukah. I'll sum it up for you while trying to do it the justice it well deserves. In the Talmud there is a debate between Rav Shmuel and the Rav regarding the lighting of the candelabra. Rav says that we cannot use one candle to light the others for it drips wax and diminishes from the first candle. Rav Shmuel says that we are permitted to use one candle to light the others. In most situations the Talmud agrees with the Rav, but in this case, as it is one of the three, the Rabbis agree with Rav Shmuel. Why? For this Rabbi Sacks turned to two core ideas in the Jewish tradition, Influence and Power. In the Torah when Moshe is passing on his position to Joshua he first passes on his majesty and second lays his hands upon Joshua (smicha). Here Moshe is first passing on his Power and second his Influence. This is unique as Judaism usually has the two separated. Kings have Power, prophets have Influence. Power is something short term, just for one's life or the short period the reign. Influence is long lasting, we remember philosophers and teachers more than kings and emperors.
What is unique about the two, Power and Influence? If you are ruling and you gather nine people to help you rule, how much Power do you have now? 1/10th of before because now 10 people share the ruling position. If you are trying to Influence and you gather nine more people who share your idea, how much Influence do you have? 10 times the amount for now 10 people are sharing your idea and preaching it; trying to make the change. Thus, we returned to the debate between Rav Shmuel and the Rav. The two are arguing whether Hanukkah should be remembered as a holiday of power or one of influence. The Rav, by saying one diminishes, is saying that the miracle of Hanukkah is about power. Rav Shmuel is saying that the miracle of Hanukkah is about influence. Using the same candle adds to the others and transfers its flame.
He then concluded with the thought that we should strive for influence, not power. That having influence will last while power is only for a short time.
The rest of my day was a long drawn out day with classes and more. Among the good things was the setting up of an Interfaith Group that will represent faith societies of St Andrews if an issue arises and for hopes of future education.
I didn't get to have a Thanksgiving dinner that night, instead I worked at the cafe. A calm ending to a long day.
I hope you enjoyed this D'var.
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Saturday, November 12, 2011
First Time in the Catering Business
Today I had a unique opportunity to help my friend waiter for her friend's catering job. For the event I had to prepare the tables and place settings, receive guests, and help serve food. All of this was followed by the honorable duty of cleaning and restocking dishes. It may not sound like much, but this is the experience I had been looking for. The chef was nice and welcoming as was the other waiter.
The two hosts of the event were both people who had work for the University. Both of them were very kind. The event was at a historic house in Cupar. The house was a grand home with tall ceiling and dark wooden walls. On the walls were paintings of hunting and game. Beyond the old kitchen there was a kitchen that appeared to be more than a century old. It had big ovens and walls lined with copper pans. Overall, the place was just neat.
There is a certain moment of my time there today that sticks out. While talking to our hostess, the waitress who I had just met discovered that they had met almost forty years prior. The hostess had been the waitresses french teacher back in secondary school. It was such a joy to see them reconnect after so long.
I hope more opportunities like this come along. They are too fun :). Special thanks to my friend Maria, who offered me the spot and allowed me to join her for a great day.
The two hosts of the event were both people who had work for the University. Both of them were very kind. The event was at a historic house in Cupar. The house was a grand home with tall ceiling and dark wooden walls. On the walls were paintings of hunting and game. Beyond the old kitchen there was a kitchen that appeared to be more than a century old. It had big ovens and walls lined with copper pans. Overall, the place was just neat.
There is a certain moment of my time there today that sticks out. While talking to our hostess, the waitress who I had just met discovered that they had met almost forty years prior. The hostess had been the waitresses french teacher back in secondary school. It was such a joy to see them reconnect after so long.
I hope more opportunities like this come along. They are too fun :). Special thanks to my friend Maria, who offered me the spot and allowed me to join her for a great day.
Friday, November 11, 2011
Reflections on Prague
Doors of Prague:
While in Prague we had fun doing a few tasks. Firstly, of the first four to be in Prague, we
each took an American chain and photographed each location we could find. KFC won. We could only find a couple of Starbucks and one Hooters. Secondly, we did a project. Like an artist had done, 
we set out to photograph all the amazing doors of Prague. So many of the doors are as beautiful or more beautiful than the buildings that possess them.
Food & Drink:
Prague is a place of amazingly cheap food and drink. At most places, the beer we ordered was cheaper than water. At the first restaurant we went to, the one tucked away between two apartment buildings, my whole meal was three pounds. The food does not suffer in quality. Prague food has a homeade feel about it and every dish I had was delightful. Being vegetarian wasn't difficult :)
Some meals that particularly stuck out:
Perpetuum: A place known for its duck. When I told the waiter I was vegetarian he suggested that I have the chef do a special. My meal turned out to be creamy chestnut soup and a mushroom risotto topped with a scoop of homemade mushroom ice cream.
Bellavista: The restaurant at the monastery that overlooks Prague. I had mushroom and potato soup in a bread bowl.
The Globe: The English bookstore's cafe. I had a Spinach Burger made of spinach, walnuts, onions, mushroom and Balkan cheese. mmhmm
Everywhere: Trdlo. A deliciously grilled pastry made of bread, sugar and spices. It is served at almost any outdoor bakery and was often our chosen snack.
Drinking in Prague was different for me than drinking in Scotland. In Prague, as the guide book said, drinking happens at most meals and is even acceptable at breakfast. Most of our meals were accompanied by wine or beer. However, the thing I liked most about Prague was the availability of hot, mulled wine. While walking, I could usually find a street vendor with mulled wine. On a chilly day it was the perfect cure and relaxant. A new favorite of mine that I will bring to the states.
Architecture:
The town is beautiful. While walking, I noticed that each building looks as it comes from another part of the world. In seconds, it felt as if I was in Italy, France, the UK and home. The architecture truly made Prague feel comfortable. Nothing felt too foreign. Just a little part of everywhere that could relate to anyone.
People
English is not the first language, nor is it necessarily a commonly known language. Frequently I would notice I was unable to communicate with the locals. However, most had a very friendly and helping attitude. They would try to understand and attempt to point you to the right place or one they thought appropriate.
Czech is its own thing. We attempted learning to pronounce some Czech and I'd say we did a good job. With each brief lesson from the guide book we attempted to try and pronounce a formally seen word the correct well. By the end we were saying "Goodmorning" and "Thank You".
Exploring & History:
Don't go to Prague with a plan and don't take public transportation. It felt so good to just be there and come up with ideas day by day, hour by hour. We walked everywhere. Prague is a city designed for a visitor to explore and enjoy.
Conclusion:
I could not have asked for a better place to visit. It's beautiful and welcoming. I felt great. The only regret I have is that I didn't make it out to Depo Hostivař ;).
While in Prague we had fun doing a few tasks. Firstly, of the first four to be in Prague, we
each took an American chain and photographed each location we could find. KFC won. We could only find a couple of Starbucks and one Hooters. Secondly, we did a project. Like an artist had done, 
we set out to photograph all the amazing doors of Prague. So many of the doors are as beautiful or more beautiful than the buildings that possess them.Food & Drink:
Prague is a place of amazingly cheap food and drink. At most places, the beer we ordered was cheaper than water. At the first restaurant we went to, the one tucked away between two apartment buildings, my whole meal was three pounds. The food does not suffer in quality. Prague food has a homeade feel about it and every dish I had was delightful. Being vegetarian wasn't difficult :)
Some meals that particularly stuck out:
Perpetuum: A place known for its duck. When I told the waiter I was vegetarian he suggested that I have the chef do a special. My meal turned out to be creamy chestnut soup and a mushroom risotto topped with a scoop of homemade mushroom ice cream.
Bellavista: The restaurant at the monastery that overlooks Prague. I had mushroom and potato soup in a bread bowl.
The Globe: The English bookstore's cafe. I had a Spinach Burger made of spinach, walnuts, onions, mushroom and Balkan cheese. mmhmm
Everywhere: Trdlo. A deliciously grilled pastry made of bread, sugar and spices. It is served at almost any outdoor bakery and was often our chosen snack.
Drinking in Prague was different for me than drinking in Scotland. In Prague, as the guide book said, drinking happens at most meals and is even acceptable at breakfast. Most of our meals were accompanied by wine or beer. However, the thing I liked most about Prague was the availability of hot, mulled wine. While walking, I could usually find a street vendor with mulled wine. On a chilly day it was the perfect cure and relaxant. A new favorite of mine that I will bring to the states.
Architecture:
The town is beautiful. While walking, I noticed that each building looks as it comes from another part of the world. In seconds, it felt as if I was in Italy, France, the UK and home. The architecture truly made Prague feel comfortable. Nothing felt too foreign. Just a little part of everywhere that could relate to anyone.
People
English is not the first language, nor is it necessarily a commonly known language. Frequently I would notice I was unable to communicate with the locals. However, most had a very friendly and helping attitude. They would try to understand and attempt to point you to the right place or one they thought appropriate.
Czech is its own thing. We attempted learning to pronounce some Czech and I'd say we did a good job. With each brief lesson from the guide book we attempted to try and pronounce a formally seen word the correct well. By the end we were saying "Goodmorning" and "Thank You".
Exploring & History:
Don't go to Prague with a plan and don't take public transportation. It felt so good to just be there and come up with ideas day by day, hour by hour. We walked everywhere. Prague is a city designed for a visitor to explore and enjoy.
Conclusion:
I could not have asked for a better place to visit. It's beautiful and welcoming. I felt great. The only regret I have is that I didn't make it out to Depo Hostivař ;).
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Bohemia Bohemia
I, and five friends, spent this past week in the city of Prague, the Czech Republic's capital and a city that has been rated one of the 10 most beautiful cities in the world.
Four of us began our trip departing St Andrews on an autumn casted St Andrews. Arriving in Prague late at night we met up with my friend Elli, briefly, who guided us to our hostel. We quickly dropped off our luggage in order to go out for dinner. Walking around the streets we found a place tucked away between two apartment buildings. The place was a perfect place to start. It's interior was green and black. Street lamps filled the place and gave it an outside feel.
Appearing touristy, we were the only foreigners there. Our waiter was a kind, young Czech. He spoke English well and gave us a nice welcome to Prague (and gave me a little trouble for being vegetarian :) ). After our meal we headed back to our hostel to rest and prepare for the following day.
Our second day in Prague began with a quick and silly wild goose chase. Attempting to find our other two friends we went down to a train station to meet them only to receive a text saying they were at the hostel. Meeting up with them we took a quick break and then sent out explore sunny Prague. On our way to Old Town Square we stopped by a couple of little
shops and a beautiful church. One of the little shops was a toy shop that sold traditional toys. These included marionettes, dolls, and cute racing games. There were also wooden models and painted eggs. The church was quiet, oddly empty of people. It has gold along its columns and gates, along with paintings and statues.
At Old Town Square we discovered the tourist center of Prague. Small shops with Prague decor, t-shirts, glass and baked goods lined the streets leading up to it. Within the square there are restaurants, tourist centers, museums, galleries, and a huge clock tower. On one side of the tower there is the famous astronomical clock (Originally built in 1410). We spent some time in the square, enjoying the buildings around us, exploring the street market, and sharing previously bought baked goods.
After the square we made our way to the Jewish section of Prague. We visited pinkasova synagoga, a place dedicated to the 80,000 Jews of Prague that died in WW2. The names of the victims are written all along the walls in letters of black and red. Upstairs, there are pictures drawn by children from WW2. Outside we went to the Old Jewish Cemetery. Thousands of graves stand close together, packed in to the small allotted ground. The place appears untouched, as if created by nature itself. Among the buried there is Rabbi Low (the creator of the Golem). After the cemetary we made our way to the Jewish Ceremonial Hall. We learned
about burial tradition among Bohemian Jews and the structure of the society. An old painting depicted Jews in clothing I had not imagined them; high socks, three-pointed hats and black suit coats. Overall I was stunned by the Jewish history there. A part of Judaism I feel for yet felt hard to relate to. It was so long ago and so different from what I have experienced.
We then went across the river on the Charles Bridge , stopping in a view shops that sold antiques and cute rabbi figurines. The bridge is home to several statues that line its stone rails. Among the statues there are saints and important figures. One of the statues is a depiction of Jesus on the Cross.
Under his arms appear the words. Kadosh Kadosh Kadosh, Adonai Tzeva'ot. Holy Holy Holy is the Lord of hosts. The statue caught my eye and I am still debating its meaning to me. It is a statue of controversy and there is a tablet there to notify the public.
After the Charles Bridge we met again with my friend, Elli, and joined her along with her flatmate to a restaurant, The Globe. The Globe is a small cafe. It is Prague's first English bookstore and sells 10,000 hand picked titles. It serves American style food and has a great atmosphere. After eating we browsed through the many books. This ended our second day.
Our third day began very slowly. Everyone slept in and enjoyed a relaxed morning. We went out for breakfast (really lunch) at Bohemia Bagel. On our way there we strolled along the streets and again looked around at the local shops. We also began our project for the next few days, Doors of Prague (post coming soon).
Afterward we split up. The guys went to explore the hill that over looks all of Prague. It was a long climb, the whole time surrounded by autumn. Along the way up we took stops to enjoy the surroundings and capture photos of Prague. After a couple of hours there (where we discovered an observatory and mirror-maze) we journeyed toward Prague's Castle. On our way we found embassies from many countries. Germany has one of the most beautiful. Unfortunately, we did not make it to the castle and instead found ourselves lost. We eventually joined up with the gals and journeyed back to the hostel. After a short rest and some time to relax we went out to Perpetuum, Prague's duck restaurant. It was an adventure traveling there. We had forgotten directions and so we asked many locals how to get there. Our Czech was poor and it took us many attempts until one lady new where to go. We got there and found no tables in the main area available. Instead, we were given a private room in the basement of the restaurant. We feasted there (food post coming soon) and then went on a hunt for a Jazz clubs.
We searched the streets until we chanced upon a club one of our group had formally been to, the Jazz Republic. There we heard a few minutes of Jazz until the club was overwhelmed by a group of Italian teens. The band concluded shortly afterward and we set out for the next club. There we were told the band was also finishing up so we took a slow walk back to the hostel.
Our last full day in Prague, the 9th, was undoubtedly the best of them all. We all, except one, woke up to discover she had brought us baked goods for breakfast. We ate in and then dispatched to the Strahov Monastery. We meant to immediately see the library, but it was closed for a short while. So, we went to the back of the monastery where there was a restaurant that overlooked Prague. We sat outside, enjoying games of cards, light chat, and a warm meal. We went inside when the library reopened and walked through a building that stunned us. The entrance walls were lined with sea life and old volumes of books. Of the two rooms we were allowed to see one has shelves all the way to a high, painted ceiling. The other room was much smaller, but still painted and lined with books from head to toe. In it were multiple globes that divided the room. I could think that if all libraries were as beautiful as this one that I'd be in one most days, whenever possible. It was hard to leave.
When we did leave, we went down to Prague Castle. We spent a couple of hours there exploring the world's largest castle. We started with the St. Vitus Cathedral, a Roman Catholic church. I was awed by the cathedral and its Gothic architecture. I almost believed I could have been a priest or a monk if that is where I spent my days. Then we went to the Vladislav Hall and the Old Royal Palace. The guys then split and spent time in the armory, looking at armor from the middle ages and before. We concluded with a hot beverage and an overlook of Prague.
Hours later we went to an opera, the Jacobin, at Prague National theater. Its was written by Antonin Dvorak. For my first opera, I could not have asked for a more delighting show. The Jacobin tells of the events occurring in a small Bohemian town in the 1793. It is full of laughter and love. Throughout it sends a message that music and song are important in life. A full summary can be found on Wikipedia (I don't want to spoil it!).
After the Opera we went to Elli's to surprise my friend for her birthday We all sat around and enjoyed a variety of Czech cakes. Delicious! After filling ourselves we went back to the hostel to rest before the journey home.
Finally, a shout out to Elli. Elli is currently doing a Jewish Studies abroad program in Prague. She's a states-side friend of mine and someone I consider one of my closest and truest friends. Had it not been for her, I would have never thought to go to Prague or to invite my friends along. I owe this beautiful escape from the ordinary of university to her. Thank you, Elli, for the invitation to visit you and for being an amazing host. We had an amazing time.
Four of us began our trip departing St Andrews on an autumn casted St Andrews. Arriving in Prague late at night we met up with my friend Elli, briefly, who guided us to our hostel. We quickly dropped off our luggage in order to go out for dinner. Walking around the streets we found a place tucked away between two apartment buildings. The place was a perfect place to start. It's interior was green and black. Street lamps filled the place and gave it an outside feel.
Appearing touristy, we were the only foreigners there. Our waiter was a kind, young Czech. He spoke English well and gave us a nice welcome to Prague (and gave me a little trouble for being vegetarian :) ). After our meal we headed back to our hostel to rest and prepare for the following day.
Our second day in Prague began with a quick and silly wild goose chase. Attempting to find our other two friends we went down to a train station to meet them only to receive a text saying they were at the hostel. Meeting up with them we took a quick break and then sent out explore sunny Prague. On our way to Old Town Square we stopped by a couple of little
shops and a beautiful church. One of the little shops was a toy shop that sold traditional toys. These included marionettes, dolls, and cute racing games. There were also wooden models and painted eggs. The church was quiet, oddly empty of people. It has gold along its columns and gates, along with paintings and statues.
At Old Town Square we discovered the tourist center of Prague. Small shops with Prague decor, t-shirts, glass and baked goods lined the streets leading up to it. Within the square there are restaurants, tourist centers, museums, galleries, and a huge clock tower. On one side of the tower there is the famous astronomical clock (Originally built in 1410). We spent some time in the square, enjoying the buildings around us, exploring the street market, and sharing previously bought baked goods.
After the square we made our way to the Jewish section of Prague. We visited pinkasova synagoga, a place dedicated to the 80,000 Jews of Prague that died in WW2. The names of the victims are written all along the walls in letters of black and red. Upstairs, there are pictures drawn by children from WW2. Outside we went to the Old Jewish Cemetery. Thousands of graves stand close together, packed in to the small allotted ground. The place appears untouched, as if created by nature itself. Among the buried there is Rabbi Low (the creator of the Golem). After the cemetary we made our way to the Jewish Ceremonial Hall. We learned
about burial tradition among Bohemian Jews and the structure of the society. An old painting depicted Jews in clothing I had not imagined them; high socks, three-pointed hats and black suit coats. Overall I was stunned by the Jewish history there. A part of Judaism I feel for yet felt hard to relate to. It was so long ago and so different from what I have experienced.We then went across the river on the Charles Bridge , stopping in a view shops that sold antiques and cute rabbi figurines. The bridge is home to several statues that line its stone rails. Among the statues there are saints and important figures. One of the statues is a depiction of Jesus on the Cross.
Under his arms appear the words. Kadosh Kadosh Kadosh, Adonai Tzeva'ot. Holy Holy Holy is the Lord of hosts. The statue caught my eye and I am still debating its meaning to me. It is a statue of controversy and there is a tablet there to notify the public.After the Charles Bridge we met again with my friend, Elli, and joined her along with her flatmate to a restaurant, The Globe. The Globe is a small cafe. It is Prague's first English bookstore and sells 10,000 hand picked titles. It serves American style food and has a great atmosphere. After eating we browsed through the many books. This ended our second day.
Our third day began very slowly. Everyone slept in and enjoyed a relaxed morning. We went out for breakfast (really lunch) at Bohemia Bagel. On our way there we strolled along the streets and again looked around at the local shops. We also began our project for the next few days, Doors of Prague (post coming soon).
Afterward we split up. The guys went to explore the hill that over looks all of Prague. It was a long climb, the whole time surrounded by autumn. Along the way up we took stops to enjoy the surroundings and capture photos of Prague. After a couple of hours there (where we discovered an observatory and mirror-maze) we journeyed toward Prague's Castle. On our way we found embassies from many countries. Germany has one of the most beautiful. Unfortunately, we did not make it to the castle and instead found ourselves lost. We eventually joined up with the gals and journeyed back to the hostel. After a short rest and some time to relax we went out to Perpetuum, Prague's duck restaurant. It was an adventure traveling there. We had forgotten directions and so we asked many locals how to get there. Our Czech was poor and it took us many attempts until one lady new where to go. We got there and found no tables in the main area available. Instead, we were given a private room in the basement of the restaurant. We feasted there (food post coming soon) and then went on a hunt for a Jazz clubs.
We searched the streets until we chanced upon a club one of our group had formally been to, the Jazz Republic. There we heard a few minutes of Jazz until the club was overwhelmed by a group of Italian teens. The band concluded shortly afterward and we set out for the next club. There we were told the band was also finishing up so we took a slow walk back to the hostel.
Our last full day in Prague, the 9th, was undoubtedly the best of them all. We all, except one, woke up to discover she had brought us baked goods for breakfast. We ate in and then dispatched to the Strahov Monastery. We meant to immediately see the library, but it was closed for a short while. So, we went to the back of the monastery where there was a restaurant that overlooked Prague. We sat outside, enjoying games of cards, light chat, and a warm meal. We went inside when the library reopened and walked through a building that stunned us. The entrance walls were lined with sea life and old volumes of books. Of the two rooms we were allowed to see one has shelves all the way to a high, painted ceiling. The other room was much smaller, but still painted and lined with books from head to toe. In it were multiple globes that divided the room. I could think that if all libraries were as beautiful as this one that I'd be in one most days, whenever possible. It was hard to leave.
When we did leave, we went down to Prague Castle. We spent a couple of hours there exploring the world's largest castle. We started with the St. Vitus Cathedral, a Roman Catholic church. I was awed by the cathedral and its Gothic architecture. I almost believed I could have been a priest or a monk if that is where I spent my days. Then we went to the Vladislav Hall and the Old Royal Palace. The guys then split and spent time in the armory, looking at armor from the middle ages and before. We concluded with a hot beverage and an overlook of Prague.
Hours later we went to an opera, the Jacobin, at Prague National theater. Its was written by Antonin Dvorak. For my first opera, I could not have asked for a more delighting show. The Jacobin tells of the events occurring in a small Bohemian town in the 1793. It is full of laughter and love. Throughout it sends a message that music and song are important in life. A full summary can be found on Wikipedia (I don't want to spoil it!).
After the Opera we went to Elli's to surprise my friend for her birthday We all sat around and enjoyed a variety of Czech cakes. Delicious! After filling ourselves we went back to the hostel to rest before the journey home.
Finally, a shout out to Elli. Elli is currently doing a Jewish Studies abroad program in Prague. She's a states-side friend of mine and someone I consider one of my closest and truest friends. Had it not been for her, I would have never thought to go to Prague or to invite my friends along. I owe this beautiful escape from the ordinary of university to her. Thank you, Elli, for the invitation to visit you and for being an amazing host. We had an amazing time.
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