Jewish wisdom teaches that it takes 40 days to form a habit. “The same is true for molding character and changing how we look at life,” says Esther Becker, director of the Women’s Academy of Jewish Studies at the Southwest Torah Institute. Her “40 Days to Become a Better You” program continues last year’s widely attended “40 Day Challenge“ series. It provides a systematic approach to integrate positive, life-enhancing attitudes.
Becker launches the new series of classes on Oct. 21. Three five-week series each focus on the development of a character trait. Series one, “The Magic of Order,” will provide techniques to generate a calm personal environment. It is designed to reduce stress and increase productivity by creating clarity and uniformity in the performance of one’s day-to-day tasks.
Series two, “Living Your Authentic Life,” is based on the character trait of truth. Living authentic life takes courage, Becker says. Honesty with consistency empowers and promotes openness, cutting through red tape, frustration and indecision, she adds.
Series three, “The Power of Humility,” demonstrates how integrating the trait of humility into our lives can free us to learn, grow and accomplish. “True humility is congruous with healthy self-esteem and enables us to recognize our gifts and talents and to rejoice at the accomplishments of others around us,” says Becker.
“Since I initiated ‘The 40-Day Challenge’ with Esther, I have understood what peace of mind means and to exercise true compassion toward all. I am experiencing a more meaningful and joyful life,” says previous class attendee Dana Zeligman.
The 40-Days classes will be held Sundays at 10-11:30 a.m. Each session is $90, or participants can register for all three sessions for $225. Sign up with a friend who has never attended before, and both receive a 10 percent discount.
Becker also is continuing her classic Thursday morning series for the 14th year. This year’s course, “Decoding the Mysteries of the Torah,” is an exciting interactive journey, she says, challenging women to look between the lines and to unravel the hidden lessons of Medrash (stories based on Hebrew Scripture) and Talmud. “Life transforming insights will emerge, as participants think, question and delve ever more deeply into the text,” says Becker. The course begins Thursday, Oct. 25 at 10 -11:30 a.m. A Tuesday evening option is available beginning Oct. 23 at 7 p.m. Cost is $290 per person for 15 sessions. Sign up with a friend who has never attended before, and both receive a 10 percent discount.
For more information or online registration visit www.tucsontorah.org or contact Becker at 591-7680 or ewbecker@me.com.
