I had to sit with this a moment. My neurospicy self doesn't particularly like the spotlight. And I was tempted to let it ride and not bring more attention by commenting but that is not being authentic to ALL of my feelings. Sometimes I feel rushed and disconnected but then I experienced profound grace in being truly seen and heard by you guys. It's an affirmation of humanity, my humanity; a recognition that my voice matters and that I belong. It means that my struggle, triumphs, and yes my moments of vulnerability are not lost in the noise but held with care by the people around me. Being understood, accepted, and valued is a gift that strengthens my soul; offers me comfort and reminds me that I am never alone in this journey. I ❤️ Elissa for many, many reasons; her care for me is one. Shana tova.
What an inspiring and fascinating story! I am always in awe of the journeys of those who choose to weld weld their destiny to ours. While Jews by birth can choose to be observant or not, the courage of Jews by choice to consciously take upon themselves our burden is something that is in my opinion momentous. I loved your description of your spiritual "homecoming". That feeling of completeness and filling a hole in your being, must be so amazing. So pleased to get to know you. And there is a phrase for the incredible work that you do: Avodat Kodesh. L'Chaim!
This really got me in the feels - in a good, filling the soul kind of way. I loved hearing the story of the Mezuzzah and how it has gone full circle. Proud (and glad) to have you and your beautiful children with us in this journey!
I had to sit with this a moment. My neurospicy self doesn't particularly like the spotlight. And I was tempted to let it ride and not bring more attention by commenting but that is not being authentic to ALL of my feelings. Sometimes I feel rushed and disconnected but then I experienced profound grace in being truly seen and heard by you guys. It's an affirmation of humanity, my humanity; a recognition that my voice matters and that I belong. It means that my struggle, triumphs, and yes my moments of vulnerability are not lost in the noise but held with care by the people around me. Being understood, accepted, and valued is a gift that strengthens my soul; offers me comfort and reminds me that I am never alone in this journey. I ❤️ Elissa for many, many reasons; her care for me is one. Shana tova.
My favorite line: "Who are these children who think my grown-ass queer Black Jewish self intends to debate my lived existence?"
Glad we're in the same tribe, Masada, and thanks for the introduction, Elissa!
Beautiful essay. Beautiful art. I love learning about Jewish experiences that are different from mine. We end up at the same place. Warriors.
Profoundly beautiful story!! I love it all, and I want to know Masada Ari!
A wonderful story about a caring , very intelligent and sensitive woman. This should be read by Everyone
Feel free to share!
Amazing inspiring woman.
What an amazing journey. My dad was a criminal defense attorney so your story really resonates with me.
Amazing. Also I want a Jews for Black Lives t-shirt
https://www.google.com/search?q=jews+for+black+lives&hl=en-US&ved=1t:200715&ictx=111&shopcct=1&udm=28#piu=ps:44&oshopproduct=gid:833665181336406421,mid:576462755299770147,oid:15637869460728452199,iid:4322379980163237827,rds:UENfODMzNjY1MTgxMzM2NDA2NDIxfFBST0RfUENfODMzNjY1MTgxMzM2NDA2NDIx,pvt:hg,pvo:3&oshop=apv&pvs=0
What an inspiring and fascinating story! I am always in awe of the journeys of those who choose to weld weld their destiny to ours. While Jews by birth can choose to be observant or not, the courage of Jews by choice to consciously take upon themselves our burden is something that is in my opinion momentous. I loved your description of your spiritual "homecoming". That feeling of completeness and filling a hole in your being, must be so amazing. So pleased to get to know you. And there is a phrase for the incredible work that you do: Avodat Kodesh. L'Chaim!
This really got me in the feels - in a good, filling the soul kind of way. I loved hearing the story of the Mezuzzah and how it has gone full circle. Proud (and glad) to have you and your beautiful children with us in this journey!