Environmental Issues

There's something about YU... Maybe it's the fresh air, lovely scenery, or ... something else. It makes people feel so free. I don't understand why everybody who has been through the Yeshiva system knows at least one other person who has gone through the Yeshiva system, then came to YU, and seems to have misplaced something. For many, it's the hat (I'm not getting into whether or not it's necessary, but you must agree it is at least a sign of commitment). For others, it's the yarmulke. You'll sometimes see it in their hand... other times not at all.

Where did it go? Maybe he forgot it at home... or maybe in shiur this morning. At least he remembered to wear those sweatpants from when he was in Israel for the year (are the two connected?). What is going on here? I think every frum guy in YU knows at least one person like this, and then there are some who did such complete 180's that nobody from there past finds themselves here.

I don't blame the institution for this. Although it may not be their fault, I do believe that it's something they must address. If YU claims to be the epicenter of centrist orthodoxy, and yet will let this type of thing slide, what does it say about the future of centrist orthodoxy? "Tzitzis optional"?

Our brothers are slipping, and we care. (The proof that you care, is that you notice it.) We need to let the administration know that we demand an institution where people feel encouraged to start wearing yarmulkes (even when they visit) and not a place they come to remove "another burden" from over their heads.

I reiterate -- I am not laying blame, I am just asking for them to step up and clean up a mess before it becomes even more disasterous.