Message from R’ Schonfeld: R’ Yoel Schonfeld

I recall sometime in the early 1980s hearing about a new term “palimony.” That was a term used when celebrities lived with each other but did not bother marrying, and then demanded spousal support upon divorce. I remember thinking to myself, What is this world coming to? Can it be that depraved people live sinfully with each other and yet want recognition of marriage when it comes to financial settlements?

My father zt”l was a huge believer in establishment Judaism. He correctly felt that without the established organizations, we would not have been able reestablish ourselves as a vibrant community following the destruction of our people in Nazi Europe.

My column last week, “Orthodoxy On Ice,” raised a handful of eyebrows. From the few critical or questioning comments I received, I think it was understood and appreciated by most but misunderstood by some. I would like to clarify my position on sports in Orthodox life, as I believe the subject is an important one.

Before I write anything, I must begin by acknowledging the tragic storms that this country has endured over the weekend, striking its midsection. Dozens of people are known to have died in the historic tornadoes, and countless others have been injured. In addition, scores of people have lost everything they own, as towns have been wiped off the map, quite literally. May Hashem see to it that those suffering will find the comfort and assistance they need promptly.

So here we go again. We as Orthodox Jews must decide whether we should exult or cringe when we find that one of our own made it big in the sports world.

“None are so empty as those who are full of themselves.” This great quote by Benjamin Whichcote was forwarded to me by my son Simcha as he referred to a particularly self-centered person in the news. Sometimes I wonder if I’m guilty of the same.