Why Is Jewish Culture Important To Me

Growing up, there are an infinite amount of decisions humans make everyday without even realizing it. The ideas and thoughts we curate as humans are a definitive part of who we are, and without them, we are not our full potential. For most people, finding that one true talent, or that passion that lets you speak your mind, is what they carry as their legacy all throughout their lifespan here on earth. For me, my perspective comes from a point of view that not many people have growing up. Born and raised a Jew, I always heard the term “Jewish”, and celebrated “Jewish” holidays and read a language that went from right to left, but never really knew what it truly meant to me. Your parents tell you, “Here’s how to be Jewish, here’s how to get bar-mitzvahed” but you never know how or why, you just listen to them, and do it. After
maturing, I discover something that I never have felt before. It was like having butterflies swarming in your stomach, but now this time it was my mind jumping up and down like when you were a little kid waiting for the ice cream truck to come. It’s telling you, “Hey, you might be onto something here.” With time and exploring, I discovered my Jewish community that was right in my backyard, and with it I had finally recognized my passion for Judaism and everything surrounding it. Within a short year, I had gotten myself involved with my religion more and more, including my youth group where I have found some of the best people I have ever met in my entire life. With time, I, myself, have done an extensive amount of self-discovery about how my Judaism has made me into the person I am today.
With everything I have learned so far, I can’t even begin to imagine what my religion has in store for me. My love for my background and culture was once something I would have never even begin to question, but today it’s now the reason why I do what I do, why I act certain ways, and why I live life to it’s fullest potential. In college, the blossoming flower that is my bond with my religion will grow into a tall and bright plant that will give others the inspiration and motivation to be themselves, celebrate their heritage and culture, and utilize everything life offers them. College is an opportunity to expand into new horizons, dive into new mindsets, and discover how people of all different backgrounds can learn from different cultures and religions. My Judaism is something that I am proud of today, and it is something that I will be proud of tomorrow. Expanding my views in college is something that I have always been ecstatic about, and discovering new ideas with others is an experience that I look forward
to. Bringing diversity to others is simple with the right mindset, and I know I have it.