I am starting this blog in October 2014 in a state of sadness.

There are so many blessings in my life and don’t get me wrong, I experience many moments of great happiness. And yet I’m all too often unhappy. I have been binge eating in secret to dull my feelings, although I’m not sure how much of a secret it is, because I’m overweight and out of shape (I’m on blood pressure medication at the age of 38).

My time management skills are a nightmare, which means I frequently procrastinate and then renege on commitments or do a sloppy job at the last minute. As a result of the pressure I generate, I find myself acting impatiently with my beloved children and wife. I’m not helping out with the household chores as much as I should, either.

Spiritually, I have not improved much in the past couple of years. I am unable to lead any of the daily or Shabbat prayer services and I should have a much deeper understanding of Torah and the daily prayers. My Hebrew is not great (to be charitable), despite nearly 14 years of living in the Holy Land. I also need to improve my relationships with HaShem and my fellow man.

But even in my current despondent state, I can see that there is hope.

For the Jews there was light, gladness, joy and honor – so may it be for us.

We say these words immediately following every Shabbat, during Havdala, to remind ourselves that we can always choose joy and happiness, even during seemingly sad moments (like the end of our treasured Shabbat).

I am going to embark upon a journey towards Jewish joy, using ancient and modern techniques. Hopefully you will join me, and G-d willing, together we will increase our happiness and become better Jews and better people.

*You can click here for a glossary of terms used in this post.