17 Jan Speak your VUES

OPINION

Dear Editor:

Hi. I have a few points to make regarding “speak Your Vues.” First of all, why is this “moderator” whoever he is, anonymous? Is he a Rabbi or a doctor to take the liberty of advising about mental health in shidduchim? How could you say to keep it secret if it’s not heredity? Would you like someone to keep it secret from you when you are marrying off your children? How can you say such a thing? When people send in letters are they asking for your opinion or people’s opinion?

Puzzled Reader

Editor’s Note: Why does it matter who the moderator is? Everyone is entitled to his or her opinion including the moderator. Names are not necessary for then things become personal. Nobody appreciates secrets in a shidduch, that we can all agree.

INTRODUCTION AT WEDDINGS

Dear Editor:
Is there a mekor for the Chosson and Kallah walking together into the wedding hall at the beginning of the dancing (and making a big to-do about it, “First time Mr. & Mrs”…, etc)? Is this something that was done in Europe and in the Sephardim countries before America? Or is something that carried over to us from the goyim?

My preliminary understanding is that we didn’t do this before we came to America. It’s a foreign idea that creeped into our simchas. But I’m ready to be corrected with sources if mistaken.

Yossi B

Editor’s Note: As long as it’s not k’neged halacha, it’s okay. Chances are this practice was not done in Europe. I don’t think anybody in America could fathom what weddings were like back in Europe.

BITCOIN

Dear Editor:
What’s the story with Bitcoin? Does it have anything to do with bitachon? Is it something you should invest in or not?

Yanky S.

Editor’s Note: I would say speak to your stockbroker. Bitcoin sounds like something that is ready to explode. Chances are there will be people making a lot of money off it and others who will lose a lot of money too!

FLU SEASON IS HERE

Dear Editor:

What is with the weather these days? I really don’t know how to protect myself from the elements? I think that the flu season is really running rampant. Every person I speak to tells me about their family members who are stuck home sick.

Sadie S.

Editor’s Note: The gemara says, “Everything is b’yedai shamayim” except for colds and heat strokes. Take care of yourself by eating and sleeping properly and dressing warmly to protect from the cold.

PTA IS IMPORTANT

Dear Editor:

On the topic of PTA, I think it is important to have it. It gives the time for the parents to acknowledge the teachers and give them their well-deserved thanks.

A Proud Mechaneches

Editor’s Note: That is an interesting angle that I never thought about. It’s good to get perspectives from all sides.

ARMREST CHALLENGE

Dear Editor: 

The other day I was flying on an airplane and the guy sitting next to me was hogging the armrest. What is the appropriate response when one is found in such a situation?

Moishy Stern

Editor’s Note: My suggestion is you should drop something on the floor next to him so he will reach down to pick it up. You can then claim the armrest for yourself. That is until you next trip to the restroom.