I am often asked if my mother is Jewish by other Jews when I say I’m an observant Jew. I ask why and they say “it’s just something about the way you talk”. Often that means religiously. I am a convert and I honestly don’t know how to respond. I don’t want to give my conversion story to everyone that asks, it is often, but I don’t want to lie. I just hope people read this and reflect about how it might feel to us, Jews who take it seriously and are also converts.
I too, can say that my former home was at the Conservative congregation Ahavath Achim in Atlanta, GA. The reason for leaving is mostly because my music doesn’t fit with their taste. I was told that my latest song release, “Adon Olam Soul”, is more appropriate in a Black church. So, I’m a musical nomad still looking for my Jewish tribe. I fit in with my New Wave tribe in the 80s when my rock band opened up for Joan Jett in Boston, but I’ve been evolving musically ever since as well as spiritually and academically. The irony is that my deeper spirituality, which is a blend of my musical styles, would not be welcome in an Orthodox synagogue, at least that’s been my experience so far.
Everyone is on a journey. There's never, never, never a perfect fit. It's not about where you need to be, it's about where-are-you-going. The different communities help us to do that.
I am often asked if my mother is Jewish by other Jews when I say I’m an observant Jew. I ask why and they say “it’s just something about the way you talk”. Often that means religiously. I am a convert and I honestly don’t know how to respond. I don’t want to give my conversion story to everyone that asks, it is often, but I don’t want to lie. I just hope people read this and reflect about how it might feel to us, Jews who take it seriously and are also converts.
Thank you for sharing this, Ariel. Best wishes on your spiritual journey and thanks for being part of Darshan Yeshiva.
I too, can say that my former home was at the Conservative congregation Ahavath Achim in Atlanta, GA. The reason for leaving is mostly because my music doesn’t fit with their taste. I was told that my latest song release, “Adon Olam Soul”, is more appropriate in a Black church. So, I’m a musical nomad still looking for my Jewish tribe. I fit in with my New Wave tribe in the 80s when my rock band opened up for Joan Jett in Boston, but I’ve been evolving musically ever since as well as spiritually and academically. The irony is that my deeper spirituality, which is a blend of my musical styles, would not be welcome in an Orthodox synagogue, at least that’s been my experience so far.
Everyone is on a journey. There's never, never, never a perfect fit. It's not about where you need to be, it's about where-are-you-going. The different communities help us to do that.
What a great way to look at leaving - as what I’m gaining instead of what I’ve lost. Chag Sameach Simcha!