Nicole Week 10: My Jewish Identity Pt. 2

    As I recall at the beginning of this blog project, I dedicated my very first blog to the endeavor of my Jewish identity since moving to Florida. Well, it has officially been three months since, and my relationship with Judaism has flourished immensely in ways that have transpired into the forefront of my identity. A multitude of events in these past three months have not only enriched my internal moral philosophy but have set the standard for the person I aspire to be. These newly acquired central principles define who I am today in adherence to the fundamentals of Jewish integrity. 

    My faith in G-d has gradually heightened with every experience-some experiences significant, and some just merely a part of my everyday routine that all harmonize to foster a prideful symphony of religious faith. It’s easy to be deceived by the triumphs of life without the battles with injustice and frustration, for you must ask yourself the question that humanity has contemplated for generations: how can I wholly entrust my existence in the hands of something so intangible? Of course, I cannot prove divine existence, but tangibility does not dictate where I place my faith. Do not confuse this trust with blind naivety, I can only provide you with my experiences. My religious journey has taught me that the highs, as well as the lows, structure a framework of a broader spiritual perception. Life is not faultless, and when tragedy strikes, a broken heart can shake the ties with faith. One may view these hardships as a rational to resent religion, or alternatively, as a spiritual awakening. Quite possibly a year ago I would have chosen the first option, however, a rather recent experience has altered my perception of Judaism. This spiritual awakening cast a light on the warmth and comfort this community never fails to provide in spite of devastation.

    A close friend of mine, Sara, has been faced with one of the most difficult grievances of life; the mourning of a loved one. In the wake of her father’s recent passing, she has shown an immeasurable amount of strength during this time of grief. I have witnessed the cries of despair and the pain her family is understandably going through, and their helpless ache for answers. I cannot even begin to comprehend what she is going through, but through this heartbreaking time, I’ve witnessed faith and hope prevail. I saw their friends and family join in prayer to support them, uniting as a Jewish community. Comfort washed over their family, blanketing them with love and providing them with strength. These beautiful moments represent what is at the core of Judaism: community. You don’t need tangible proof of a G-d existing to see this, and the truth is that with faith, it is the heavy times like these in addition to the joyful moments that cultivate these beautiful spiritual connections, bringing us closer together as Jewish people. Have you experienced a pivotal shift in perspective that has changed how you view difficult circumstances?