• English
  • HOME
  • ABOUT
    • Privacy Policy
  • BLOG
  • PODCAST
  • SPEAKING
  • RESOURCES
    • Shabbat Guide
    • Bat Mitzvah Guide
    • Parenting Principles
  • CONNECT
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter

    Search

Jewish Latin Princess

The Two Wills

May 28, 2020 by Yael Leave a Comment

Financial-Statements-are-Value-Statements

B”H

This Erev Shavuot I’m reminded of the following story and discussion I recently had with my students at Jewish Money Makeover.

A story is told of a wealthy man who left an estate of close to $1 billion dollars. He also left two wills for his children. One will was to be opened upon his passing. The second will was to be opened 30 days after his passing at the shloshim. 

The children opened the first will. In it, the father requested that the children head to a certain drawer in his bedroom, grab a particular pair of socks and bury him wearing those socks. 

They did as their father requested and immediately headed over to the Chevra Kadisha, the burial society. During his lifetime, the man had been a generous supporter of the Chevra Kadisha. They would surely comply with their beloved benefactor’s request, the children thought. 

But, upon presenting the burial society with the socks and the request, the kind-hearted men explained to the children that they couldn’t do it. According to Jewish law, the only way to bury a body is with tachrichim, burial shrouds, and nothing else should be on the deceased’s body. 

“We’re sorry,” they said. “Your father was a very pious and devout Jew. Right now, his soul knows what is best for him. So, go in peace, for he is OK with you not fulfilling the wishes that he expressed while his soul was trapped in the body and shackled by physical existence.”

The children were somewhat comforted. Their father had indeed been a very devout, observant Jew. He surely would want them to follow G-d’s will. The wealthy man was buried without socks. 

Thirty days passed. The shloshim arrived, and the children opened the second will. 

It read as follows:

Dear Children, 

By now you’ve certainly realized that you can’t take anything with you; not even a pair of socks. Therefore, no matter how much wealth you have, be wise and make sure to use it for that which is of value and eternal, a life of Torah and mitzvot, goodness and kindness.

“What do I value?” is a question I think about often and I encourage many to do the same. Additionally, “Am I living in alignment with those values?” “Does the way I allocate my time and money reflect those values?” Whether we like it on not, “financial statements are values statements.” ​

This is one of the many deep conversations I had with my students during our four weeks inside the Jewish Money Makeover. It’s not an easy conversation, but an important one. 

However, I think this pandemic has made it easier for us to get to the core of what our values are. The truth of what’s really important and valuable in life has been exposed. Hence, we can make wiser choices with our time and money. ​

In fact, we’ve seen that what the Torah has always told us is truly important: family life, relationships, self-growth, education, community, health – physical health, mental and spiritual health – are paramount. 

Moreover, Torah ultimately is a value’s system – a blueprint for life. 

This Shavuot, will be so much more than about cheesecake. We will receive the Torah either in quarantine, or transitioning back into post-quarantine life.

Thus, I pray that precisely this year we’ll be able to say with complete honesty, “I put my money (and time) where my values are. And, those values are not the values of the world of Instagram or Facebook, my friends or my neighbors. I’m living in line with the eternal values of the blueprint that was given to me as a Jewish woman – the Torah.”

May you all be blessed with a Kabbalat HaTorah B’Simcha U B’Penimiut – to joyfully internalize the Torah anew.

Yael

P.S.

Finally, my students enjoyed Jewish Money Makeover so much that I opened up a Level 2! If you think you might be interested in learning with me how to transform your financial life, click HERE to add yourself to the waiting list. When I launch again I will open the course first to the women on the waiting list first. 😎

 

You may also like | Puede que también te guste

  • Episode 84: Chanie Apfelbaum, Author of Millennial KosherEpisode 84: Chanie Apfelbaum, Author of Millennial Kosher
  • Acrylic Judaica to Swoon OverAcrylic Judaica to Swoon Over
  • Episode 50: Shira Lankin Sheps, Founder of The Layers ProjectEpisode 50: Shira Lankin Sheps, Founder of The Layers Project
  • Consejitos de belleza de la Reina EsterConsejitos de belleza de la Reina Ester
  • Pomegranate SalmonPomegranate Salmon
7 Reasons Why You Should Launch a Podcast Now
Episode 126: Mixed Messages About Money in the Orthodox World

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

INSTAGRAM

Follow on Instagram

Jewish Mom Blogs

Judaica by Kate Spade NY

Sponsors I Love

Sponsors I Love

Ready to enjoy a joyful & richer Jewish life?

Recent Posts

  • 340: Tips for negotiating a new job
  • 339: Aleeza Ben Shalom, Netflix Host of Jewish Matchmaking 
  • 338: My child is making money. What should I encourage her to do with it?
  • 337: Beyond the Art of Fundraising with Rabbi Shmuly Rothman
  • 336: The Pursuit of Greatness with Rabbi Shmuel Reichman (Replay)

Testimonials

  • Chaya Mushka Ben-Shabat, Founder and CEO, Menachem Mendel AcademyChaya Mushka Ben-Shabat, Founder and CEO, Menachem Mendel Academy
    Being a guest on JLP was a true delight!  Easy, quick, hassle-free, and most of all…FUN!  Yael made the entire experience feel like a chat with a long-lost friend, and I finished with the interview feeling invigorated and excited to re-focus on my mission.  May Hashem give us MANY more women like Yael in this world to hasten our righteous Moshiach NOW!!
  • Harriet Lerner, PhD, Author of Why Won’t You Apologize?Harriet Lerner, PhD, Author of Why Won’t You Apologize?

    I loved being in Jewish Latin Princess. Yael made me feel right at home. Her careful reading of the book and her interview style was terrific. I also enjoyed sharing a part of my life that I don’t usually get to share in interviews. Thank You Yael!

  • Jamie Geller, the Queen of KosherJamie Geller, the Queen of Kosher

    I had a great time being on Jewish Latin Princess Podcast. Yael is a great interviewer and fun. The questions just flowed and they were the perfect balance of thought provoking and deep, while also keeping the conversation very real and practical. I’ve done many interviews in the past and I can say, Yael is great on the mic!

  • Shira Kraft, Director of Nishmah, JCC of St. LouisShira Kraft, Director of Nishmah, JCC of St. Louis

    I can’t thank you enough for joining us at the retreat and being a truly special guest! Your words were beautiful and meaningful. You exceeded our expectations and were a pleasure to work with. It was wonderful to share this Shabbat with you.

  • Lenore Skenazy, America’s Worst MomLenore Skenazy, America’s Worst Mom

    It was a joy to be interviewed by Yael -- she's fun, prepared, quick and smart. A truly zesty conversation. What more could an interviewee want?

  • Julie Starr, Possibility Life Coaching for WomenJulie Starr, Possibility Life Coaching for Women

    Being interviewed by Yael is pure joy! Her insightful comments, powerful questions and warm interaction helps one share with ease. Yael may you go from strength to strength with your mission of spreading goodness throughout the world!

  • Faigy Pollock, Expert on Marriage & IntimacyFaigy Pollock, Expert on Marriage & Intimacy

    What an honor to be interviewed by Yael. In my eyes, Yael's show is a place to glorify Judaism and the Jewish way of life, and I am humbled to have been invited to share my passion. Yael made me feel so comfortable and confident. Her easy going upbeat energy was felt way across the globe as if I was sitting right there next to her. I enjoyed every moment of the interview and couldn't believe that an hour and a half went by so fast;-) I look forward to connecting again soon. Yael, keep up the good work!

  • Amy Kritzer

    I loved being a guest on Yael's podcast! Her questions are thoughtful, and it's like chatting with a good friend. The time flew by. I wish we could have chatted more.

  • Silvia Cohen, Food Creative Blogger en LemishmashSilvia Cohen, Food Creative Blogger en Lemishmash

    Yael de JLP no es solo mi gran amiga sino que es una host maravillosa, con la voz más dulce y hace las preguntas más asertivas. Te hace sentir en casa estando tan lejos y en un micrófono. Yael es el perfecto ejemplo de mujer mamá judia trabajadora que lo puede todo! Y todo lo que hace lo hace perfecto. No solo recomiendo escuchar sus podcast que son maravillosos sino seguir su blog y sus ocurrentes historias y los mejores tips.

  • Stacy Middleman, Author of Dear Cancer, Love StacyStacy Middleman, Author of Dear Cancer, Love Stacy

    Yael is a delight! My interview with her for Jewish Latin Princess was like talking to an old friend. Her questions are thought-provoking, insightful and generous. Her warm approach allowed me to be myself, and I loved having the opportunity to share my story in such an engaging way.

  • Michelle Poler, Founder of Hello Fears, Speaker & Fear FacerMichelle Poler, Founder of Hello Fears, Speaker & Fear Facer

    I loved being part of your podcast, I had no idea what to expect and it was refreshing as a Jewish woman to participate in your podcast. Your questions related to what I do, combined with Judaism gave me a lot to think about. I love getting new questions instead of the typical “why did you start the project?” which is important but I’m glad you gave it a twist. I hope your listeners enjoy the interview as much as I enjoyed being part of it! Thanks for challenging me to think about my topic and religion as one.

  • Nomi Freeman, Expert in Near Death ExperiencesNomi Freeman, Expert in Near Death Experiences

    It was great talking with you yesterday. You made me feel totally comfortable from the start. Your style is so dynamic, and your interviews so thought provoking! Our interview was just one fun conversation and it flew by so quickly!

  • Rebecca Schweiger: Artist & Founder of The Art Studio NYRebecca Schweiger: Artist & Founder of The Art Studio NY

    By far the highlight of my week was interviewing with Yael for JLP! I felt like I plugged into an outlet of inspiration and human connection. Yael has brains, spunk, spirit and curiosity, all of which come through her thought-provoking and engaging interview style. Thank you, Yael, for including me in your podcast. You are a pleasure to join forces with!

  • Shirley Varnagy: Periodista, Anfitriona de Radio y TVShirley Varnagy: Periodista, Anfitriona de Radio y TV

    Gracias por la estupenda entrevista que me hiciste, siempre es grato que te entrevisten de otra manera, es una conversación que nunca olvidaré. Al final el propósito de una buena entrevistadora es que su entrevista deje huella, y tu lo lograste.

  • Abigail Pogrebin: Author of My Jewish YearAbigail Pogrebin: Author of My Jewish Year

    Yael's careful preparation and genuine sensitivity are evident in every question she asks and in how attentively she listens. It was a pleasure to talk to the Jewish Latin Princess!

  • Bari Lyman: Author & Creator of Meet to MarryBari Lyman: Author & Creator of Meet to Marry

    It was such a delight to be interviewed by Yael. She is so warm, on target and really insightful. Instead of feeling like an interview, it was like have a cup of tea with a really good friend. Thanks Yael for sharing your gifts with the world and creating a platform to share ours.

  • Bari Tessler: Financial Therapist and Creator of The Art of MoneyBari Tessler: Financial Therapist and Creator of The Art of Money

    Yael and I went deep into my journey to becoming a financial therapist in her podcast. Thank you for this lovely interview.

  • Rena Reiser: Intuitive Eating CoachRena Reiser: Intuitive Eating Coach

    I'm brand new to the podcasting world, and Yael made me feel right at home and relaxed. She's so curious and honest, making it a pleasure to speak to her. Being interviewed by Yael is like sitting in your best friend's living room shmoozing and laughing about the day.

  • Barbara Stanny: Bestselling Author, and the Leading Authority on Women and MoneyBarbara Stanny: Bestselling Author, and the Leading Authority on Women and Money

    You are a truly terrific interviewer. I'm also filled with joy and gratitude to have had such a juicy, deep, and spiritual conversation with you. Thank you so much for inviting me on your show.

    Author of Prince Charming Isn't Coming, Overcoming Underearning, and Sacred Success

  • Vicki Samuels: President & CEO, Jewish Herald-VoiceVicki Samuels: President & CEO, Jewish Herald-Voice

    Yael is a gifted and intuitive writer. So impressed was our staff, that the Jewish Herald-Voice offered her a monthly column, "Defining Jewish Women." We have received only positive feedback and our readers look forward to the third Thursday of every month. In between, I personally follow her blog and gain much insight into myself through her words and emotions.

  • Gila SimchaGila Simcha

    What a treat to hear Yael speak at the Jewish Women's Retreat in San Antonio. Her presentation, "Mi Casa es Su Casa, The Kabbalah of the Home" inspired me to express my Judaism in a way that speaks to my creative side and love of all things chic without compromising my true self and style. I'm so glad I got the chance to hear her message of creativity and Torah. Bravo!

  • Sandy FrydbergSandy Frydberg

    I enjoyed your presentation very much. Your way of presenting material is your strongest asset. You are organized, friendly and approachable, and you speak beautifully, including when you incorporated Jewish teachings in Hebrew. I would be happy to learn from you as you make it fun and interesting.

  • Tina GrossTina Gross

    Thank you so much for a wonderful presentation....You are a great speaker and all the ladies loved hearing your stories....

  • Shoshana BonnShoshana Bonn

    I am writing to share how much I enjoyed your presentation on the kabbalah of home at the 55th N'shei Chabad convention in San Antonio, Texas. Your vivacious speaking style, the clarity with which you made your points, and your warmth toward your audience made this one of the best breakout sessions I attended. You offered both depth of Jewish knowledge and perspective on how this applied to people's individual situations. I look forward to my next opportunity to hear you speak.

  • Ronit Spiwak WolfRonit Spiwak Wolf

    Gracias por crear un blog tan necesitado para la mujer moderna Judia.

  • Clara GrossClara Gross

    Yael y JLP son muy especiales para mi. Fue gracias a JLP que me di la oportunidad de intentar nuevamente preparar Challah para mi familia - desde que JLP publico la Challah que nunca falla en nuestra mesa hay hermosas y deliciosas Challah todos los Shabbat y en las festividades. Soy una foodie así que no me pierdo las recetas que publica y hasta ahora han sido un éxito total, sin contar que me inspira la bellísima presentación de los platos y como presentar una hermosa,  sencilla y a la vez elegante mesa para nuestra familia e invitados.

  • Miranda HurwitzMiranda Hurwitz

    In preparation for my wedding, I had the opportunity to learn with Yael. Creativity aside, she is a wealth of knowledge, both passionate and practical, about what she teaches and how she teaches it. I'm also proud to say that through our experience together she has become a great friend and is someone that I can I always talk to.

  • Melinda SilberMelinda Silber
    Yael can be defined as “refreshing inspiration.” She is well-versed in an array of topics from Jewish femininity to design details. Every time I hear her at a speaking engagement or in passing conversation, she always brings an awareness of Jewish femininity to the forefront, constantly reminding women of their spiritual role and importance in ‘everyday’ things. I was thrilled that she passed this concept on, along with her deep knowledge of Judaism, to my daughter during their Bat Mitzvah lessons together. Yael always rises to the occasion (no pun intended) with her eye for design and attention to details. Her subtle palette, creativity and organizational skills are her recipe to success!
  • Vanesa KreindelVanesa Kreindel

    Estoy inmensamente feliz de haber conocido a Yael. En ella no solo encontré una persona con inmenso talento, sino que también encontré una gran amiga que abre su corazón y te contagia su alegría, creatividad y armonía. Me fascina leer su blog - en el siempre encuentro algún nuevo “tip” y también disfruto muchísimo de las clases de mujeres que nos da mensualmente.

  • Anat ChenAnat Chen

    My daughter Stav had her Bat Mitzvah a few months ago.  I wanted Stav to go into her 'Bat Mitzvah' understanding the meaning of the term, and with the knowledge of how to apply it to her life. Even though she learns in a Jewish Orthodox school, I felt that she needed extra learning and inspiration for her coming of age.  Luckily, I knew Yael from before, and heard that she teaches Bat Mitzvah classes.  I had a feeling that this would be a good match... I wasn't wrong :)

    Yael teaches ancient ideas in a modern way.  Stav came back from classes inspired, thinking and asking herself questions.  I'm thankful that my daughter had the opportunity to learn with Yael for her Bat Mitzvah in a interesting, welcoming and inspiring way.

  • Kayla WarrenKayla Warren

    Yael has creativity, vision, and energy, and she uses them all to the fullest for her clients. She came up with the color scheme, all the accessories, the overall “look” of the day, and I just happily and gratefully followed along. But I don’t want you to think it’s only what Yael wants, Yael does. She asked me for input every step of the way. She always checked in with me about what she was buying, what she thought we should have at the party, and she was always conscious of budget. I wanted everything she suggested, but I know that if there had been anything I wasn’t keen to have, she would have changed it until she found something that I loved. She wanted my daughter and me to be happy with everything. We weren’t happy – that’s too meager a word – we were elated!!! Working with Yael was such a pleasant and joyful experience. And those are two words I don’t use lightly when it comes to describing planning an event.

  • Elisheva GolaniElisheva Golani

    Yael helped me style my son's upshernish as well as my living room. She is wonderful to work with! She is talented and extremely organized which is super helpful! She has an incredible eye and knows how to beautify absolutely anything!

Ready to enjoy a joyful & richer Jewish life?

75 yael@jewishlatinprincess.com
xo Yael
  • English
  • HOME
  • ABOUT
  • BLOG
  • PODCAST
  • SPEAKING
  • RESOURCES
  • CONNECT

© 2025 · Jewish Latin Princess · website by Pretty Darn Cute Design