On Speaking Hebrew in Massachusetts

Worry, worry, worry. That's what I'll bet you're doing. (Yes, I read the comment!)

Is this rabbi of ours going to remember how to speak in English or will we be inundated with Hebrew all the time?

I guess I'll have to be sneaky and find ways to throw easy phrases in here and there so that it's painless. Inch by inch life's a cinch. Mile by mile it's a trial!! Just a little at a time should work. Just common courtesy words to start with.

You know some already. Gut Yontiff (in Yiddish) or Yom Tov is what we say to one another on holidays.

Everyday Americans will tell you to "have a good day / have a nice day." Everyday Israelis will tell you "Yom Tov!"

It's a little disconcerting. Hmmm. Did I forget some holiday? Don't think so? Oh, I'm in Israel - they're telling me to "have a nice day."

Things like that. It's a way of connecting. Teachers (and rabbis too) know to double-speak. Always say the Hebrew phrase first and then add the English. You know that I do this already when I address some of my posts and other missives to "Chaverim Yekarim / Dear Friends."

I'll do the same thing when speaking and do it in short, occasional bursts.

BUT - I will be on the lookout to keep up my skills, that's for sure.

AND - I do think in Hebrew at times and even dream in Hebrew - so things are sinking in. Which, of course, was the idea in the first place.

Shabbat Shalom / Sabbath Peace

Rabbi Heath