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The Rebbetzin of Finland: Why We're So Happy Here

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The Rebbetzin of Finland: Why We're So Happy Here

What can you learn from how Finnish Jews and their neighbors live a happy and stress-free lifestyle?
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Joy; Happiness
Chana Weisberg is host of the Ordinary People, Extraordinary Stories podcast and curator of advanced learning experiences on Chabad.org. She lectures internationally on issues relating to women, relationships, meaning, self-esteem and the Jewish soul. She is the author of six books. Her latest book, Shabbat Delights, is a two-volume series on the weekly Torah portion.
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sunshine new england April 6, 2024

I'm an American and I was taught that people exiting an elevator, building, etc. go first because there needs to be room for the people entering. Reply

Chana Weisberg April 8, 2024
in response to sunshine:

Yes, that is a polite thing to do. thank you! Reply

J R Israel N. Highlanfs April 6, 2024

I spent 4 years in North Pole Alaska in a log cabin with all those long nights and short Summers So found this a really fun interview. Loved that children are required to be outdoors for hours and are encouraged to play in the Mud and build with sticks.Thank you for this happy Ray of light! Reply

Chana Weisberg April 8, 2024
in response to J R Israel:

When I heard about the time spent in the outdoors, I also thought what a great way to uplift one's mood! I'm glad this interview brought you some happiness. :) Reply

Anonymous April 4, 2024

This was enjoyable to listen to. Thank you.

I had the pleasure of visiting Finland several times. Very clean, clear nature. Unique. Beautiful.

I also stayed for a short time in Vyborg, a place at times a part of Russia, and at times a part of Finland. (Very Russian, now.)

I found Israel the most peaceful to my soul, and a place of completion for me; and, being there taught me great insights about the whole world, and personally for my soul; and, despite palpable tension. My first Shabbat, profound quiet, unlike experienced anywhere else on earth.

I honestly feel blessed for the many places I have been blessed to visit. I really wonder of this: Why My God took this simple, shy, home and religion and family-oriented person, and brought them to so many places on this earth.

It is important to remember Tzemach Tedek personally helped the Cantonists to remain Jewish, and marry Jewish, and to rescue by paying money.

Thank you for sharing your life and story.

Stay safe, and be well. Reply

Chana Weisberg April 8, 2024
in response to Anonymous:

Thank you for sharing and for your interesting comments! It really is a blessing to see so many parts of G-d's beautiful world! Reply

Anonymous April 8, 2024
in response to Chana Weisberg:

Well, at this point, I've been to almost thirty countries.

I travelled as a teen, and again just before the pandemic for several years.

What was most interesting is how people have changed between the two timeframes; and, currently, the major similarities between peoples in all lands.

The ideology gap having markedly closed due to the availability of internet; and, the information it imparts, both good, and bad; and, to reduce, and dispell differences between lands that "culture," had prior, created walls.

Thank you, for your courtesy to write back; it is appreciated; and, for sharing.

Stay safe. Be well. Reply

Sarah New York April 3, 2024

According to Wikipedia, since data collection began in 2008, incidents of antisemitism have been on the rise in Finland. The number of incidents are likely under-reported as Finland does not account for specific forms of hate speech that incite violence or hatred.

There’s only 1800 Jew’s in Finland. Helsinki (80% of the Finnish Jewish community), Turku (13%), Tampere (3%) Respectively.

Languages spoken are Finnish, Swedish, Hebrew, Yiddish, German, & Russian.

Only Ashkenazi Jews: notably Russian Jews, and Ukrainian Jews live in Finland.

Personally, I couldn’t imagine living life without Italkim, Mizrachi and Sephardim who brings richness in a variety of ways to our culture.

I could never be happy leaving out the remaining Jewish cultures. Reply

chana weisberg April 3, 2024
in response to Sarah :

Interesting information and perspective. Thanks for sharing! Reply

Steve shon Ny April 2, 2024

On my way to Finland.. Yes! Reply

chana weisberg April 3, 2024
in response to Steve shon :

Right, ha! Reply

Karen NYC April 2, 2024

I'm happy that Jews are safe in Finland but the thought of cradle-to-grave, courtesy of the government, horrifies me. Obviously, YMMV. Not much incentive to earn. Reply

chana weisberg April 3, 2024
in response to Karen:

Yeah, I can understand that perspective too. Reply

Jodi Nicastro April 1, 2024

Great interview! It makes me want to go to Finland! Reply

chana weisberg April 3, 2024
in response to Jodi Nicastro:

Thank you! I know, right? Reply

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