I’ve never been able to put my finger on what draws me to faith. People keep asking me why I go to synagogue, why I keep Shabbat, why I want to be a rabbi. And I don’t have any fancy-sounding answer, because the truth is I just feel some kind of deep calling to Judaism.
When I enter the synagogue I feel love wash over me. When I stand during silent prayer and notice a divine presence, I feel the very same love. And when I’m sitting in the car after a rough day, when I turn on my Jewish music playlist, I feel it.
So, why do I show up at temple so often?
It’s because of love.
I’ve sent out countless emails, texts and DM’s trying to convince my peers to come to youth group, to participate in spiritual life. I understand the hesitancy, because I felt the same way two years ago. But I’d urge any adolescents reading this to give Judaism, and its youth activities, a real chance. Faith has fundamentally changed my perspective on life, on compassion, on courage, and I hope everybody gets to experience that shift.
So, whatever age group you fall into, I urge participation. If the word of a 17-year-old means anything, I’ll say that I find Judaism really special.
– Rebecca Waldman