Yonason Goldson
I'm a Talmudic scholar and professional speaker, as well as a former hitchhiker and circumnavigator, applying ancient wisdom to the challenges of the modern world. I've published seven books, including, Proverbial Beauty: Secrets for success and happiness from the wisdom of the ages.
Homepage: http://yonasongoldson.com
The Politics of Reason
As I and others have pointed out many times, the Torah makes very little of personal rights and places emphasis on responsibilities. If I focus on my obligations to others, the issue of rights becomes moot. Now George Will makes the same observation, with an extra helping of irony.
This column from Charles Krauthammer is a bit dated, but still relevant in its warning against inflating trivial issues and blurring the distinction between substance and emotion.
The Illusion of Influence
Posted in Holidays on October 8, 2009
What does it say about our society that the most influential man doesn’t really exist? And what does it have to do with the festivals of Sukkos and Simchas Torah?
Celestial Navigation
Posted in Holidays on October 6, 2009
The cycle of Jewish festivals, culminating in the holiday of Sukkos, helps us to find our way through a world of uncertainty and confusion.
Sukkos
Posted in Holidays on October 1, 2009
Best wishes for the coming Yom Tov and the coming year. Please enjoy these archived articles on Sukkos and Shemini Atzeres.
Tsunami Season
Posted in Science and Nature on September 30, 2009
The recent Samoan tsunami brings back horrific memories of the far more catastrophic Pacific Rim Tsunami five years ago.
Here are some reflections from back then. May HaShem comfort those whose lives have been turned upside down by the unfathomable power of nature.
Mona Charen Remembers Irving Kristol
Reflections on the first of the neocons, those “liberals mugged by reality.”
Back to School?
Posted in Culture, Education and Parenting on September 23, 2009
It was the first day of school after summer vacation.
The kids had all arrived in the high school sophomore English class, and were chatting away, making new friends. Then… in walked a very stern looking English teacher and a hush fell over the room as the kids scurried to their seats.
The stern teacher silently panned his gaze across all the kids. After about a minute or so, he spoke:
“From the outset, I want you all to know that there are two words that are absolutely unacceptable in this classroom.
You may not use them as you recite, or in any of your papers, tests, or homework. Using these words even once will earn you a failing grade for that quarter.
The first one is gross.
And the other one is cool.
Are there any questions?”
After a few moments of silence, this gawky teen at the back of the room raises his hand, and the teacher calls upon him.
In a pubescent croaking voice, the kid asks…
“So, what are they?”
Hat tip: Dave Weinbaum
Two Cheers for Pain
Posted in Philosophy on September 10, 2009
Reaching for the Aspirin bottle is not the only option.
Rosh HaShonah Archives
Posted in Holidays on September 9, 2009
Past articles on the Day of Judgment, the sound of the shofar, and the philosophical underpinnings of repentance.
In the Service of the King
Posted in Ethics of Fathers on September 6, 2009
Read my new Pirkei Avos column on how the longing of our hearts can affect our prayers.
Torah Ideals 
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