Blog

Refreshed and Ready to Go

The family just enjoyed a refreshing week away from the "stuck in the house by COVID grind." We spent a week at the National Autism Conference learning, connecting and spending time in my beautiful Pennsylvania hills. We're back home getting back into a routine that almost resembles normal. I will be teaching at the monthly Lunch and Learn at our synagogue next week and have a new class scheduled at another congregation nearby on August 31. If you're interested in joining us, you can catch the details on the Torah Study page. (posted 8/12/22)

I'm Baaaack!!

As you can see, I've been away from the keyboard for a while. Thank God the biopsy did not show any spread but the lesions were malignant. The doctor will continue to follow me but the prognosis is ok - so far. I got one COVID shot - then promptly got sick! So shot number two has been on hold for several weeks. I have still managed to find things to occupy my time. I am working on several new class ideas,one of which I have finalized. I will be teaching my latest class via Zoom. Sponsored by Congregation Darchei Noam of Ambler, Pennsylvania, it is called "Practical Spirituality" and deals with finding and developing our spiritual lives in everyday situations. For more information about the class go to Torah Study. If you would like to participate, please contact Darchei Noam at info@darcheipa.org. (posted 2/24/2022)

Under the Knife Again

A week ago I underwent another brief surgery to remove a lesions from...well from where the other problems were removed! You know: private parts! As of this writing I am still waiting for biopsy results. I am feeling fine, but what comes next remains to be seen. My projects are on hold for now. Hopefully I will be back to the usual routine soon and as good as new! God bless you all! (posted 10/17/2021)

Coming Back from Covid-ville!

The world (at least my part of the world) is beginning to return to something close to normal. Like many others I am trying to get myself back into my routine. To my patient followers and friends I share some plans for the "new normal." I am developing a new class on how to write your own D'var Torah. I studying up on the minor prophets, and may be planning another Torah Study class based on what I am learning. Torah Thoughts will be back this week. And I am writing the latest post for "Along the Way." Stay tuned! (posted 7/13/2021)

Back to Work! A NEW Class on Prayer

After taking some time off to learn to cope with a COVID world (and manipulate Zoom) I am back "in the virtual saddle." I will be teaching a virtual class called "4 Question About Jewish Prayer." I will be on Zoom for four consecutive Thursdays at 10:00 am (EST) and is sponsored by Tiferet Bet Israel synagogue. Check it out, either on the class website sites.google.com/view/prayer-class or contact me via email at welshabba@gmail.com for the link. Hope to see you there! (posted 10/2/2020)

Covid-19 : An Unwelcome Visitor

Well here we are: sitting in our homes wondering what to do with all this time suddenly on our hands. Coronovirus and its other incarnation Covid-19 have suddenly out a serious damper on everyday life not to mention Passover or Lent. It would be fitfully easy to get frustrated or depressed over all this, particularly if you spend too much time watching cable news. Try to keep in touch with loved ones. Learn a new skill (internet can be a wonderful tool if you use it properly). Read that dust covered Bible of yours. Start a diary. Catch up on your hobby, what ever that is. Keep busy. Cuz friend, this can't last forever! In the meanwhile I'm sending you all a cyber hug and best wishes for a happy "vacation." (posted 4/1/2020)

Passover Tragedy

Unless you have no access to the "outside" world, you have likely heard of the shooting at a Chabad-Lubavitch shul near San Diego. There are just no words to describe the depth of depravity that leads someone to perform such a despicable act. How are we to respond to such insanity?

As the Lubavitcher Rebbe taught, when someone increases evil in the world our response should be to increase holiness. Light Shabbat candles this week, especially if it is not your usual custom to do so. We will unleash the power of a holy act and send a strong message to our enemies. Am Israel Chai. We cannot be conquered! (posted 4/29/2019)

Baruch Ha'Dayan Ha'Emet

This morning our closest friend - more like a sister - returned her neshamah to her Creator. How we will miss her love, compassion and kindness! The world had too few people like Ronda Fersky. Now we are all poorer because of our loss. May Hashem bless and comfort those who mourn. (posted 3/21/2019)

Better Service Coming for Book Purchases

After enduring problems with my current publisher I am negotiating with a new company with the intent of maintaining the quality of my books while improving the service to all of you who are interested in purchasing them. Please check back on this site in the coming weeks for further details. In the meanwhile if you would like to purchase one of my books (including my latest novel, The Poor in Spirit.) please write directly to me at welshabbabooks@gmail.com or call or text 267-225-8573. As always I never share email addresses or phone numbers with anyone. (posted 3/14/2019)

A New Novel Published - at last!

Well after years of writing, rewriting and editing, I have finally published my long-awaited second novel. It is titled The Poor in Spirit and deals with the subject of crises of faith. The protagonist, a life long member of a fundamentalist Christian community, discovers that he is Jewish by birth. His faith community rejects him when he refuses to disown his Jewish family heritage. As he struggles with his own doubts, he is confronted by others who are also beset by questions about their own faith and beliefs. This is a really challenging book and frankly I am rather proud of it! I hope you will take a look at it on the Books page. Consider buying a copy, for yourself or as a gift. Remember I donate a portion of the proceeds from my books to charity. If you have any questions or comments, please visit my Guest Book at the link above, or email me at welshabbabooks@gmail.com. (posted 7/2/2018)

Another Graduation

Every once in a while a parent has the right to brag. Even if he (or she) hasn't had much to do with the accomplishment about which said parent is bragging. But when one's daughter, who began life as a 1 pound premie and has had to overcome educational disadvantages all her young life, graduates from a major university (i.e. Temple) with a Bachelor of Social Work degree, one tends to brag. Especially when said daughter has also been working part time and maintaining an exceptionally high GPA.

So if I am accused of bragging about my "little one," I plead guilty as charged.

Datya, I could not possibly be more proud of you. As you begin your new full-time position at Children's Hospital, I offer you just one suggestion. Go get 'em, Sweetie! (posted 5/14/2018)

40 years together

Yesterday Valerie and I celebrated 40 years of married life together. On this past Shabbos I was honored with an aliyah during the Torah Service. Before reciting the prayer in honor of the happy occasion, the rabbi asked me to tell him Valerie's Hebrew name. No matter how hard I tried, I could not recall her Hebrew name! I had to look at her in the congregation with a puzzled expression to get her help. I expect that it will take another 40 year to live this one down. If ever! (posted 4/16/2018)

More Health Worries...Just in Time for Passover

Just when you thought it was safe to go back to the doctor... For the past several weeks I have been undergoing tests and treatment for cancer. This is my third bout with the dreaded disease and this time it's serious. I have had two chemotherapy treatments so far and have been tolerating them well. After my next treatment, the team plans to take more tests to see what - if any - progress we are making. To borrow the over-used phrase: Keep Calm and Pray On. I will post something about my progress later.

Due to the weakness I have been experiencing since starting therapy, I won't be leading seder as usual this Pesach. Fortunately our kind friends, the Cohens, and our wonderful rabbi and his gracious wife, Rabbi Eric Woodward and Katherine Baker, have invited us to their homes for the two seder celebrations. May Hashem reward them for their kindness! And may you each and all enjoy a zissen Pesach! (posted 3/39/2018)

The Heart of the Matter

Obviously I haven't been adding to the blog for a while. Well I have a good excuse this time. Last week I underwent a cardiac catheterization to clear a significant blockage on the left side of my heart. Thanks to the prayers of all of you and the skill of the doctors I am now doing much better. I have to make a few changes to my diet and lifestyle in order to make sure I don't have any repeats of the heart trouble that has been plaguing me for so long. Once again I thank all of you who have been sending prayers and well wishes my way. May G-d bless you all with a happy and healthy 2018. (Posted 12/26/2017)

On the Mend...Maybe

For the past several weeks I have been out of circulation due to some health problems. At the risk of sounding melodramatic, I collapsed about a month ago while I was getting ready to attend an event at my synagogue. I'm doing better but I still get tired easily and find my heart rate racing. Since I don't have medical insurance, I haven't been able to get to a doctor to find out what's causing all of this. A physician in Pottstown, Pennsylvania have been kind enough to donate his services to try at least rule out any serious issues. To all of you out there who have been following me and offering prayers and support, thanks and G-d bless you! I hope to be back to Along the Way and my other projects soon...at least part time. (Posted 6/14/2017)

New Look

As you can see, this site and my blog Along the Way have undergone a major face lift. The new image has a fresh, clear and more up-to-date style. How do you like the new look? Please leave a comment in my Guest Book (Link above) (Posted 3/24/2017)

Previously Posted

An Interview about "Long Way Home"

posted Feb 11, 2015

Some months ago, author, performer and educator Maria Mangos Grujicic interviewed me about my first book, Long Way Home. The interview was published overseas, but I thought I would share it here as well. Maria collaborated with me on the editing of the book.

Maria: What was the most impressionable event that came to mind as you wrote the book?

As I wrote the opening scene, where the protagonist becomes lost in a flashback memory of the Battle of Antietam, I had a recurring sensation of all the times when I felt that I was “lost in life.” By that I mean not really knowing where I was spiritually, emotionally. In all that confusion reality suddenly intruded and made the confusion more profound. I think everyone has those moments and they can be truly frightening. At that point in the story I really related to Michael Ross Johnson and his dilemma.

MMG: Who is the most influential person in your life? Why?

I’ve been blessed to have been surrounded by many wonderful people who have had a profound influence on my life. The most influential person was undoubtedly my father, Ken Aston. Dad was a very intelligent, talented and wise man. He was a very loving parent. I have said many times that Dad was my “living North Star.” When ancient navigators became lost at sea they got their bearings be relating to the North Star. Whenever I felt lost, Dad had a way of helping me stay on course. The scene in Long Way Home when Michael’s father dies is based on the experience I had keeping vigil at my father’s death bed. The book is dedicated to him, in memoriam.

MMG: Which character was the most challenging to portray and how did you overcome this obstacle?

I had a difficult time making the Confederate widow seem real. She is a strong character who was also vulnerable and unsure of herself. Like other nineteenth century women, she was dependent on her husband in many ways. Obviously being male I could not relate to her situation in the same way that a woman might. I discussed it at length with my son, who is excellent at character development. And the poetic insights I gained from your thoughtful review also helped me to understand a woman’s perspective. In the end she came alive to me.

MMG: What is the most rewarding aspect about writing a book?

For me it was creating a world. I used places that were familiar to me and a time period that I had some knowledge of. But the characters and situations did not exist until I brought them to life. Seeing my characters growing as people and overcoming obstacles was very rewarding. It made me feel that I might vicariously give my readers the strength of heart and sense of hope to overcome in their own lives.

MMG: What is the one biggest lesson you learned about life as a result of writing the book?

That no one is ever alone. A person cannot live in isolation. I believe that G-d brings people into our lives – sometimes only briefly – who help us through those times when life is not easy or fun. We all need each other. If more people would realize that and act accordingly, the world would be a wonderful place!

MMG: How has this experienced changed you as a person?

For one thing I have more confidence in myself than before. This was my first book. I have never thought of myself as a successful writer but I have had many people tell me how they have enjoyed the book. One reader told me she was honored to have a book written by me. Another said she admired the “vivid, descriptive writing.” One young woman told me that this story has had a profound impact on her personally. These reactions were totally unexpected. It is encouraging and humbling to know that my work has had such an impact on my readers.

MMG: If you could use one word, which would you use to best describe the meaning this book has to you? Why?

Wow! Tough question. As the main character makes his way through the book he gradually realizes that his real goal is not to return to the safe familiar place called “Home.” Life does not grant us the privilege of staying the same. The world changes, people change, we change. The book’s hero eventually learns that his duty to his family, his fellow humans, even to himself is his real goal. And by determining to do his duty, he finds meaning in life through helping and growing with others. In that sense he finds fulfillment at last.

MMG: What was one aspect that surprised you during your experience before, during or after writing the book?

The biggest surprise to me was how the characters took on a life of their own. When I first wrote the book, I had an entirely different theme in mind. As I went through the process of revising the book I changed he opening scene entirely. It seemed that Michael Johnson’s story needed to be told. My original idea was to create a metaphor. Instead I told the story of real people with real problems coping with tragedy, sorrow and self-doubt. The result I think was a much better book and a much more interesting story.

MMG: What was the most defining moment in the book in relation to your life?

Surprisingly enough it was the scene where Michael hit a home run playing baseball. He has very little self-confidence but he gives it his best effort. The result was not only a personal accomplishment but he made a major contribution to his team’s success. I think that was an awakening for him and certainly for me. I began to believe that the little successes in my life could contribute to a greater good.

MMG: If you could do it all again, what would be the one thing you would do differently?

I would probably try to be more descriptive and give more background to the characters. If the book has a fault it is that I had not fully transformed myself from storyteller to writer. I spent a lot of words telling the story and perhaps not enough setting the scene or engaging the characters. I am basically satisfied with the book however.

MMG: What was your main goal? Do you feel you achieved it to your potential?

My main goal was to portray a troubled young man who overcame an incredible personal struggle with the help of people who cared for and loved him. I wanted to show that when we allow others to come into our lives, we can find the strength not only to cope but to succeed. I think it is an important and timely lesson. I think I succeeded at least to some extent.

MMG: If you were to give others one piece of advice on storytelling, what would it be?

Know your characters. It is their story that you are telling. How do they feel? When they look at a sunset, what goes through their minds? Where do they live and how does that affect the way they act or react? When you know your characters well it is much easier to bring the story to life.

MMG: If we go five years from now, where do you see yourself as a writer and/or a professional?

I hope that I will have grown as a writer. I want to explore other themes and different characters. I have recently started revising a novel that I began a few years ago that deals with the theme of the role of faith in one’s life. Too often people’s faith is either in religion, or other people or some philosophy. But when religion fails, other people disappoint or philosophy seems vain, what becomes of the faith upon which one has built his life? That is my next project. After that…who knows? But I will certainly continue to explore life through my writing.

MMG: Thank you :)

You are very welcome. And thank you!

Thanksgivukah!

posted Nov 16, 2013

For those of you who do not follow such calendar trivia (or if you are Jewish and have been living under some goyishe rock for the last six months!) the first day of Chanukkah and Thanksgiving occur on the same day this year. At least in the USA where Thanksgiving occurs on the last Thursday of November. In 2013 it is on one of the latest possible dates on the Gregorian (solar) calendar. By twist of mathematics, Chanukkah occurs on one of the earliest possible dates on the Hebrew (lunar) calendar. This interesting twist in time will not occur again for about 10,000 years (literally!). Since I may be booked in the year 12,013 C.E. I thought I would make mention of the occasion this time around

As I light the candles this year I will note with gratitude that we are still in our home. It has been nearly a year now without a full time job. Thanks to the help of a few friends, my synagogue, and the brilliant financial management skills of my wife, we are still warm in our own home and able to eat three squares a day. So it is fitting that as the family celebrates the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days, we extend thanks to G-d for the miracle of our scarce resources lasting a year.

May all of you - family, friends, and followers - know only good things this holiday season. May G-d bless you will health, strength, and sustenance. And may you in all things be grateful!

Dead Sea Scrolls Adventure

posted Aug 21, 2012

Today my family and I had the rare privilege of viewing a sampling of fragments from the famous Dead Sea Scrolls. The artifacts are on display at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, until October of this year. Besides the inspiring work of the scribes from the Qumran community, the exhibit also featured many archaeological finds from the Holy Land, courtesy of the Israel Antiquities Authority

What a thrill to see stones that had once been part of the Holy Temple, to see relics that had been part of civilization in the Land for over 3000 years! It was a truly inspiring experience to realize that this is my heritage. The great religions of the western world grew from the beliefs, culture and history of the peoples of the Middle East. As Christians, Muslims and Jews came together to enjoy this amazing opportunity, I could not help but wonder if we might not yet find enough common ground in this time to finally bring peace to the Land. G-d grant that it may be so, speedily and in our time!

The Man with Smiling Eyes

posted Jul 12, 2012

It was the eyes. The most attractive feature on Dad's face was those smiling, pleased-to-meet-you eyes. Sitting there beneath that magnificent, coal-black hair of his, Dad's eyes just seemed to be waiting to say "Hello!" Whenever anyone came into view, Dad always added a brilliant smile that made you glad. You felt welcome before you had even met him. No doubt about it: Dad was one handsome man. After the conversation began is when you began to notice that there was something different about Ken Aston. It certainly wasn't his speech, intelligent, thoughtful and fluent. No, it was something else that became obvious only after looking at him for awhile. It was his stature. His body seemed to be on angle.

When Dad was just a baby a polio epidemic invaded the little Welsh town where he lived. Dad was afflicted with the disease and a "side order" of meningitis just to make a dreadful thing worse. He was the only child on his block to survive. Despite winning the battle to survive, he was left with one leg shorter than the other and a severely curved spine. Two operations, spending half of his childhood in heavy, metal braces, and years of therapy helped him learn to walk on his own.

Physical challenges were not what defined my Dad though. He was a very intelligent individual. He studied tool design and eventually became an inspector for a company that manufactured small aircraft engines. He was an accomplished musician, able to play the trumpet, guitar, violin and piano. His tenor voice was a delight to hear. He was an excellent teacher and spent many years as a volunteer teacher for the religious education department of his congregation.

His greatest accomplishment, the one in which I think he took the most pride and certainly the most meaningful for me, was being a successful parent. Dad shared himself with everyone but most generously with my two sisters and me. It was he who gave us our first music lessons. Dad was always there when we needed to talk or sometimes just cry. He showered us with praise for every little accomplishment. Of course he would be the first to remind you that he didn't do it alone! He and Mom were a team and that too was an example for us. I have often compared Dad to the North Star. He was the one who helped us stay on course.

On the 17th day of the Hebrew month of Tammuz, Dad finished his work here on earth. Everyone who knew him misses him still. The values he lived he taught to his children. The example he set guides us even today. In that sense he is here with us. But I would give all I own to see those smiling eyes just one more time.

(Author's Note: Today would have been his 89th birthday.)