Michael Mantell

Many of us are fluent in asking through prayer and supplication for clarity, healing, livelihood. But how fluent are we in thanking? [Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D.]

The Torah is teaching us something essential: love is not merely an emotion we fall into. It is something we cultivate. It is born of choice, nurtured through shared purpose, and deepened through acts of kindness and spiritual connection. Yitzchak does not stumble into love; he chooses it. He nurtures it. And through that choice, his heart begins to mend. [Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D.}

Each year, as we return to the opening words of the Torah, we are invited to begin again, not merely to reread familiar stories, but to renew our vision, our understanding, and our inner world. Bereishit is not only about the creation of the universe; it’s about the creation of the self, of human consciousness, purpose, and moral responsibility. [Michael Mantell, Ph.D.}

Hearing is a passive sensory experience, simply perceiving noise, vibrations, jangle, echo. Listening is an active choice of paying attention, assigning meaning to what we hear, necessary to promote and advance our learning. [Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D.]

Much like New Year’s resolutions in January, our spiritual intentions often fade by the time reality sets in. This doesn’t mean we’re hypocrites. It means we’re fallible humans. [Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D.}

Psychologically, this is a moment to pause, to check our internal compass: Where do I truly stand as the new year begins? Am I living in alignment with my values, my goals, my deepest purpose? [Michael Mantell, Ph.D]

Just doing mitzvot is not enough. Doing so with gladness of heart is the proper way. Remembering where we come from, not “who we are,” but “whose we are,” expands our gladness. [Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D.]