SS Ohio

1. Describe the factors which have drawn you to Judaism.

Initially, it was from the stories I heard while growing up and what the implication was. I had heard for years that the spelling of my last name had changed to protect "us" from persecution. I heard this multiple times over the years as a child. I never thought anything about it until I got older and began doing family research. I had been told by relatives that we had family members that were in the concentration camps, but I have never been able to verify this. These things were what started me down the road to Judaism. While researching Judaism and the history of it, it begins to stand out that Judaism is the "focal point" for what the majority of the population believes in current society. Judaism makes everything an event. Where else do you find where someone has said, and it has been passed down for thousands of years, that one should say a blessing because he saw something new or amazing? Judaism seems to focus on worship in all of our daily activities. No one is perfect but Judaism seems to make an attempt at helping one keep their focus and strive to be the best we can possibly be.
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2. Which Jewish values do you find most appealing and persuasive?

I find that a lot of the aspects of prayer are very appealing. I think that a lot of people, without understanding, would frown upon the way we pray. I like it because of the fact that you are somewhat “forced” into the proper mindset (kavanah) before beginning prayer. (the same way in which the sofer speaks his intentions at the beginning of writing the Torah scroll, etc)
The prayers can also help in searching yourself. They may cause one to think of something that they feel should be addressed that they otherwise may have overlooked.

As for being persuasive, please refer to the answer to question 3.
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3. How is Judaism more appropriate for you than your former religion or worldview/lifestyle?

Judaism began with the covenant between G-d and Abraham. From that point until now, it has been in existence. The Torah was given to Moses with all of the Israelites present. It wasn't delivered to one person (in secret) and handed down from them. It was given to all and it was made clear who it came from. There was no room for miscommunication. Judaism and the Torah laid the foundation for how life was to be lived. The rules set forth are as applicable now as they were thousands of years ago.
(Some more applicable than others since there is no Temple)
Judaism, for me, offers more of a sense of direction. An ordered process in a world of disorder. Observance forces one to take the time to rest and reflect.

4. Describe your understanding of and relationship to G-d.

My relationship is direct. G-d stated that there is He and no other. I need no intermediary. I don't have to go to a priest to confess. i don't have to go to someone who may feel they are above me because of their religious title or position. I can pray and address G-d directly. G-d gave the Torah. He has already told me what is expected of me and how I should proceed with my life.
He has provided everything in which I would need for reference in case of questions.

5. How has your personal and home life changed because of Jewish tradition? How do see your Jewish life progressing in the future?

I am more focused on the rituals of Shabbat. Making time to relax and reflect instead of going constantly. My personal life has altered in relation to prayer and keeping shabbat. I certainly admit that there are times when I have not kept shabbat. I also recognize that change is a process and not instant. I cork at it everyday and make a conscious effort to remain aware of all Judaism “opens up”.

More jewish study. I am currently going through the crash course for learning hebrew. While I have slacked a little due to school work, I still recognize that learning hebrew is a major step in the progress of my growth as a jew. Also incorporating all of the other aspects that solidify a jewish life.
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6. Describe your sense of identification with the Jewish people in relation to Israel , world Jewry, the local Jewish community and your synagogue.

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World jewry – I feel for the jews of the world. Everyone is not in the same situation but there are many, worldwide, that still suffer persecution and fear being victims of terroristic activities. I had never experienced any type of discrimination or discriminatory actions (speech, etc) until I began this process and began to identify (and make public this identification) as a jew.


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Local jewish community/synagogue-
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(the closest synagogue is a reform synagogue)
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I have frequented the reform synagogue on a few occasions. I have wanted to avoid becoming accustomed to the service structure so I have limited my visits there. I also understand that jewish study and learning is a communal process. As such I frequent online sessions in an attempt to maintain the needed connection. The potential of relocation is a possibility in the near future and , as such, one of the foremost items that will assist in area selection will be a conservative synagogue. (Most probably the greater Pittsburgh area)

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7. What is your commitment to prayer, Shabbat and keeping kosher?

While it was hard for me to pray, it is becoming easier
(I was worried about formalities, as I wanted to make sure I prayed the prescribed prayers correctly)
It also makes it a little easier to pray. By reading the prayers offered, it makes me address and look at other things that I may not have addressed before. Shabbat is something that I enjoy as "down time" and enjoy not having to worry about if this or that is done. It makes me focus on there are other days to get things accomplished. I don't have to do it constantly. I can and should rest.
I am very picky about what I eat to start so the switch to eating kosher has been easier than I thought. While I initially thought I would complain very much about eating a cheeseburger, at the same time I have lowered my intake of red meat. As a result, this has also lowered, and almost removed completely, the instances where I would mix meat and dairy. I now make a intentional effort to look at what I purchase and eat.
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8. How do you plan to continue your Jewish study?

I love to study and learn. I intend to continue my learning by devoting more time to Torah study and to begin studying the Talmud. There is more to being jewish than just words and actions. It is the emphasis on study that has helped Judaism stay relevant and in existence. By instilling in the knowledge of the past in future generations, it can be assured that Jews and Judaism will continue to grow and remain a driving and living people and faith.