Meaningful Life Skills: Weekly Global Class

What is the secret to true happiness? Is it simply a matter of having positive experiences while avoiding pain? If that were the case, why do we see people who have endured immense suffering radiate joy, while others, blessed with easier lives, remain bitter and despondent?Real happiness is not about escaping hardship or pretending challenges don’t exist. It’s not frivolous joy or denial. True joy emerges not despite pain, but alongside it. So how do we cultivate a happiness that remains steady even through setbacks, losses, and tragedies?Please join Rabbi Simon Jacobson and explore the profound balance of embracing life’s struggles while discovering deep, unwavering joy. With all the madness going on around the world, today more than ever we are all in need of this powerful discussion.

What is holding you back from living up to your greatest aspirations, your dreams, your ideals? What is stopping you from actualizing your full potential? Is it fear? Bad luck? A lack of skills or motivation? Or perhaps it’s all of the above? Maybe there are even deeper, unseen forces—subconscious patterns, societal pressures, or past experiences—blocking your path without you even realizing it.One thing is certain: Each of us yearns to live the best possible life—however we define it. But wanting is not enough. It’s one thing to set goals and define success; it’s another to identify and overcome the obstacles in our way.It seems simple: Envision your ideal life, then remove the barriers. But life is rarely that straightforward. We are complex beings, shaped by both external influences and internal struggles. There are forces—both within and beyond us—that silently dictate our choices, often without our conscious awareness.Please join Rabbi Simon Jacobson in this vital conversation as we uncover what is truly

Are you a leader or a follower? Many people assume they aren’t born leaders—that leadership requires ingrained charisma, courage, and wisdom, while they need guidance and direction from others. But is that really true? We all need mentorship, education, and teachers, but does that mean we must conform? Following guidance is one thing—losing your individuality is another. Leadership isn’t about commanding the masses; it’s about inner confidence, knowing you have something unique to offer. In other words, are you a giver or a taker? Are you contributing to this world or simply following others and taking what’s out there? Too often, societal, cultural, and familial pressures push us into herd mentality, stifling our individual spirit. But you have a distinct voice, a gift only you can offer. Please join Rabbi Simon Jacobson in this transformative discussion and discover the leader within you, your individual voice and indispensable contribution that this world is desperately in need of.

Do you ever feel like life is a masquerade—constantly switching masks depending on where you are, who you're with, and what’s expected of you? At work, at home, in social settings—always performing, always adapting, living up to others’ demands.And then you pause and wonder: Where am I in all of this? What part of me has been lost?We live in a world where inauthenticity has become the norm. We're not just talking about fake news or AI-generated illusions. People—out of fear, the need to conform, or the desire to be accepted—often put on a facade, a forced smile, a curated persona. And when you add the layers of insecurity and childhood conditioning—especially if we grew up in homes where authenticity was lacking—this becomes second nature.The result? A profound dissonance between who we are and how we feel we must present ourselves. It’s disorienting, even exhausting.So, what can we do about it? Please join Rabbi Simon Jacobson in this vital discussion and discover how we can reclaim our true selves

I came across a cartoon recently: two people sitting at a bar, and one asks the other, "Do you remember when you stopped caring?" It struck me deeply and made me think; how many of us truly care? Care about others, care about events in the world... And not in a superficial way—curiosity, sensationalism, or a passing interest—but really care. When someone is in pain, do we feel it? Whether it’s a loved one or a stranger, do we truly empathize? It reminded me of a powerful truth that has always touched me: “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” In so many ways, the measure of our humanity is defined by how much we care—or don’t. Empathy is the foundation of all meaningful action. Without it, nothing moves us to respond to the injustices we see, whether in an individual’s life or on a global scale. Yet, life has a way of hardening us. We can become colder, more detached, even cynical—perhaps because we’ve been hurt, or because we’ve turned inward, consumed by self-inte

We often find ourselves living in the moment, consumed by its immediate demands and emotions. But true wisdom lies in stepping back and seeing the bigger picture—connecting the dots, identifying patterns, and gaining a bird’s-eye view. This perspective not only enriches our understanding of life but also empowers us to bring greater meaning and direction to the details of our daily existence.Yet, it’s not easy. Living in the moment can blind us, trapping us in the here and now. Add to that the constant lure of instant gratification, and it becomes even harder to rise above the noise. But rise we must. As we enter the year 2025—marking the close of the first quarter of this new millennium—we have a unique opportunity to reflect. What have we learned? What patterns and trends can we discern? How can these insights guide us into a purposeful and inspired future? Join Rabbi Simon Jacobson as we journey back to look ahead, uncovering the lessons of the past to illuminate the path forward. Following the agricultu

As we welcome the New Year, one of the most pressing questions -- and modern-day dilemmas -- is: how can we sustain our New Year’s resolutions? Whether it’s losing weight, launching a new project, mending a relationship, or breaking a habit, the resolutions we make often struggle to last beyond a week—sometimes even a day. This year, the New Year aligns with the final day of Chanukah, when we light all eight candles of the menorah. Indeed, Chanukah offers us profound insight into this challenge: how do we maintain inspiration? Like a maintenance contract often costing more than the initial service, sustaining our commitments can feel far more difficult than starting them. So, let’s delve into this timely and relevant discussion. What does Chanukah teach us about carrying the light forward—not just tonight, but every day? How can the enduring message of Chanukah’s flames guide us in illuminating our lives with purpose and resolve in the year ahead?

With the recent, bloodless fall of the oppressive Assad regime in Syria and the arrival of the holiday of Chanukah, it's impossible to overlook the striking parallels between events of millennia ago in Syria and those unfolding today. These connections offer profound lessons for our personal lives and the world at large.What did Syria symbolize in the time of the Maccabees, and what does it represent now? What can we learn from their defeat then, and their downfall today? And most importantly, what comes next?As with all things in life, the macrocosm reflects the microcosm. Global events mirror the inner struggles and triumphs we each experience. In this special Chanukah edition, we’ll explore the historical and spiritual dimensions of Syria’s story—then and now—and uncover its guidance for shaping a brighter future in the Middle East and beyond.Please join Rabbi Simon Jacobson in this discussion as we delve into the timeless lessons of Chanukah and the enduring relevance of its flames.

At the end of one of my classes, a cardiologist approached me—a gentle soul burdened by a life of profound challenges—and asked me, Rabbi Jacobson, can you help me? Can you pray for me to find some calm, some peace in my life?”Being a cardiologist, and with a good sense of humor, I replied, Do you mean... a flatline? He chuckled and said noo, no, not that calm, not that peaceful.I smiled. “Ah, you mean a wave—a steady, rhythmic cardiogram. Not the extreme peaks or plunging valleys, but a balanced wave of life.” He nodded, understanding. After all, we all know the alternative: a flatline signals no life at all.And yet, isn’t that the struggle for so many of us? The anxiety, the disruptions, the relentless upheavals. The big question we all have: Is it even possible to find calm in the storm of life? Or perhaps going even  deeper, why does life have to be so turbulent in the first place?But what if there is a way? A path to discover balance. To ride the wave without being consumed by its extremes.Please join R

The recent overthrow of the Assad regime in Syria raises profound and urgent questions: Where are we headed? What lies ahead for Syria, the region, and the world? The ripple effects are undeniable—Syria, once a cornerstone of Iran's axis of power, joins a wave of global upheaval. The Middle East burns with confrontations: Israel faces its enemies, Iran and its proxies loom. Tremors extend far beyond—to South Korea, Ukraine, Europe, and beyond. But the real question transcends the headlines: What does the future hold? Are these events isolated crises, or do they reveal the contours of a much larger, unfolding narrative? To glimpse the road ahead, we must look back. History—our greatest teacher—offers clarity and perspective. By tracing the roots of today’s conflicts to their biblical origins, we uncover profound truths about the forces shaping our world and, more importantly, our role in this unfolding drama. At the heart of this timeless struggle lies a battle as old as history itself: Jacob and Esau—a clash

What is the secret to greatness? Humans, by their very essence, are driven by an insatiable yearning to grow, to rise above limitations, and to touch the transcendent. No matter what heights you've reached, the human spirit is never content to linger. It craves more—more wisdom, more accomplishment, more connection, and more impact. This unquenchable thirst propels us forward, compelling us to seek excellence in all its forms. But the question remains: What is the key to unlocking our greatest potential? Many ideas have been proposed—persistence, discipline, tireless effort, relentless competition. And indeed, these are vital tools. Yet, there is a deeper, more profound truth—a singular ingredient that has the power to transform your journey, to lift you beyond your perceived limits and ignite the full spectrum of your potential. This secret is as elusive as it is powerful. It is not about dominating or conquering but about surrendering to a process, about stepping into the unknown, and about embracing disc

There’s an undeniable tension in the air—a palpable anxiety sweeping across the world. You can feel it. Here in the United States and beyond, the aftermath of elections leaves some elated with a sense of victory, while for many, the unease lingers. In the Middle East, the raging wars only deepen our collective angst. And this week, the shocking, cold-blooded murder of Rabbi Zvi Kogan in the UAE—a tragedy that has shaken us all—has pierced our hearts, bringing our fears and insecurities to the surface. We’re left grappling with the uncertainties of where this world is heading. Amid all this turmoil, we find ourselves searching for answers, for ways to deal with the overwhelming anxiety that surrounds us. As we approach Thanksgiving, a time dedicated to gratitude, it’s worth asking: Can gratitude be more than a polite gesture? Could it actually hold the key to alleviating our anxieties? Please join Rabbi Simon Jacobson in exploring the deeper meaning of gratitude—beyond the surface-level niceties—and discov

With war continuing to rage across the Middle East—north and south of Israel, fueled by Iran and its proxies—one question echoes in every heart: What is the endgame? Is peace even possible? Especially when this conflict has persisted not just for decades, but for centuries, even millennia. And in the past century, the flames have only grown fiercer.Is there hope? Countless peace proposals have been presented over the years, yet none ever hold. Many have given up, resigned to a cycle of temporary fixes, firefighting, and fragile ceasefires—only to watch the tensions erupt again and again.I propose we take a bold new approach. A peace plan that addresses not only the symptoms but the very roots of the conflict. A plan that balances immediate needs with long-term vision, because nothing less will break this relentless cycle.This demands open eyes, honesty, and courage. We cannot hide behind illusions or smokescreens. True peace requires confronting the core issues head-on, with integrity and fairness.And when I

The world today feels like it's shifting at breakneck speed, with profound changes sweeping through every corner of society—technology, artificial intelligence, Middle East upheavals, and, most recently, the U.S. elections and all its implications. Each day seems to bring new, unexpected twists and turns, an undercurrent of uncertainty and the unknown rippling through America and beyond. What does this whirlwind of transformation reveal? And more so, what does it indicate? What is all this leading to? Are we experiencing a true paradigm shift, a redefinition of our future? Some foresee an apocalyptic descent, others a radiant, utopian dawn. Which path are we on, how can we find our footing and help define the path ahead? Please join Rabbi Simon Jacobson for an essential conversation about these critical times. Following the agricultural, industrial and information revolutions, we are standing on the threshold of a new frontier -- the spiritual revolution. Discover developing global trends—as well as a bluepri

In what will surely be remembered as a historic political comeback, Donald Trump has just been elected as the 47th President of the United States. Over a century has passed since Grover Cleveland’s unique achievement of serving two non-consecutive terms. But this election is far more than a repetition of history; it is a seismic event. Trump has proven to be one of the most determined and relentless leaders in American history. His tenure was marked by ceaseless attacks on him: accusations of Russian collusion, two impeachments, criminal indictments, ongoing legal battles, the storming of the Capitol on January 6, two assasination attempts, media loathing, and a barrage of accusations that painted him as the embodiment of division and authoritarian. The nation, by and large, had dismissed him, relegating his presidency to the annals of history as a single-term aberration.  Yet here we are, witnessing what The New York Times called a “stunning return to power”—a comeback few believed possible. Despite all th

With the world in turmoil—the Middle East at war, a deeply polarized and divisive U.S. presidential election ahead, and countless other uncertainties—you may find yourself wondering: where are we headed? How will this end? We’re emerging from the Jewish holiday season, marked by the High Holidays of Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur, the joyous Sukkot festival, and culminating with Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah. This season traditionally calls for renewal, repentance, and joy, but this year carries an especially somber weight as we remember the tragic events of October 7, the massacre in southern Israel. Perhaps it’s no coincidence that Israel’s recent retaliatory campaign against Iran was named “Days of Repentance.” It suggests a profound message: that these High Holidays are more than a seasonal observance—they set the groundwork for a year dedicated to repentance, correction, and transformation. This year could be our opportunity to face these immense challenges and turn them into a new pioneering frontier,

How do you deal with betrayal, especially when it comes from those you trusted most? Betrayal is one of the hardest challenges to navigate because it shakes the very foundation of trust, security, and certainty that we build our relationships on. So how do you overcome it? How do you learn to trust again? This is a challenge that speaks deeply to our times, especially with the turmoil we're witnessing around the world today. Nations betray their allies, and individuals feel betrayed by friends, whether in politics, business, or personal relationships. Even the media is more often than not unreliable. Betrayal seems to surround us—on both a personal and global scale. But as we approach the holiest day of the Jewish calendar, Yom Kippur, this sacred time offers us a profound lesson on how to face and transcend betrayal. There is a path forward, a way to rebuild trust and faith. Join Rabbi Simon Jacobson on the continuing journey of the "60-Day Spiritual Guide" as we explore the timeless wisdom that helps us h

How do we react when our lives are disrupted—when routines and predictability are suddenly upended? Generally, disruption is disorienting. We thrive on consistency, on having a defined plan. When that gets shaken, it creates uncertainty, and we often feel confused, disturbed, even demoralized. Whether it’s trauma, loss, or any unexpected event, especially when it disrupts our regular structures, it can make us feel like we’ve lost balance and control. We saw this with the onset of COVID, and we continue to experience it with the ever-increasing uncertainties of the world, amplified by technology and other unknowns. However, the truth is, if we learn the right approach, disruption can become a powerful springboard for growth.  As we approach the new year, Rosh Hashanah—a time of renewal—please join Rabbi Simon Jacobson in our ongoing 60-Day Journey and explore how to discover renewal in times of disruption.

Clarity is one of life’s greatest blessings, the ability to know with certainty the correct path to take in life. There is no joy like dispelling the shadows of doubt. But how do we actually find clarity, especially in times of great confusion? Today, perhaps more than ever, we're being constantly bombarded by conflicting messages and contradictory narratives—whether in the media, politics, and in virtually every area of life. Self-interest and bias distort the truth. How can we navigate the maze of half-truths, propaganda and even outright deception inundating us? Is there a way to discover clarity, not only in our personal lives but also in our collective, communal, and social spheres? It starts with the individual. When speaking to someone, how do you know if they’re being truthful, if their words are authentic, or if you're being misled by a "white lie", a partial truth or a deliberate con? How do we know who we can trust? In a world where information spreads at lightning speed, discer