LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Dear Editor,

Rabbi Shafier was spot-on when he said that we’re not teaching our boys the basics of our belief (Quest to Connect, Issue 43). I have two teenage sons, and the entire focus of their day is gemara, while my daughters have regular classes in hashkafah and many offer facets of Yiddishkeit that the boys just don’t get. I’m all for tradition, and I certainly understand the importance of gemara, but I also think that in today’s day and age, it’s time to amend the boys’ curriculum a bit – particularly in light if the unique challenges they face growing up in today’s day and age.

Menachem B.

Dear Editor,

I was happy to read Rabbi Shafier’s advice about having teens learn to play musical instruments. There is so much research out there extolling the benefits of learning to play. From the mental benefits such as improving memory to the sense of accomplishment of mastering an instrument, music offers a multitude of unique advantages. As an accomplished pianist, I can say wholeheartedly: parents, take heed. Hand your child an instrument and you are giving him tools for life.

A Reader

Dear Editor,

I wanted to add one more to your list of odd jobs (Jobs You Never knew Existed, Issue 43): golf ball diver! Just kidding, although it is a real job. In all seriousness, I really enjoyed the fun and informative article. Keep them coming!

Chaya Jacobs