This is my role in Am Yisrael, the people of Israel:
I am a spokesperson. In Burlingame, I am heavily involved in
both Jewish life and non-Jewish life. I volunteer at my temple, go to NFTY
events, and Jewish club, all meanwhile being involved in Mock Trial, ballet,
and choir. Both types of activities allow me to meet and talk to different
types of people. When I talk to non-Jews through these activities, naturally,
my Jewish life comes up in conversation. Because I am an Asian Jew, their view
of what a Jew is supposed to look like is often shattered as I hear them say
“Wait, you’re Jewish? How is that possible?” The relationship usually follows
with more breaking of Jewish stereotypes and information about Judaism. Now
that I have learned in Israel for four months, these conversations will be even
more informative than before.
I am a role model and support system for other Reform Jews
in my area. Many Jews my age are rather timid of their Judaism. Some do not
like admitting that they are Jewish, as it is associated with the frowned-upon
Zionism. I, however, am extremely proud of being Jewish. Hopefully, my own
pride will encourage other Jews around me not to hide their Judaism.
I break stereotypes of what it means to be a Reform Jew.
Many Jews hold the view that Reform Jews is simply synonymous with lazy Jews,
or with Jews who are too afraid to be openly Jewish within American society.
However, I am a Jew who is neither lazy nor afraid to be Jewish. By being in
Israel and studying Jewish history, I have learned to make an informed choice
about what is meaningful about Judaism for me in the modern age.
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My role in Am Yisrael, along with every other Jew’s role in
Am Yisrael, is crucial. Every role is responsible for ensuring the continuation
of the Jewish people. I have done so by making people more proud of their
Judaism, thus making them more likely to pass it on to next generations. I have
informed people about what Judaism is, thus making others more understanding of
it rather than blindly hating it. I have broken stereotypes about reform
Judaism, thus ridding of misunderstandings that lead to lack of unity amongst
the Jewish people.
The longevity of the Jewish people can be contributed to in
countless ways. I do not believe that it matters how this contribution is made,
but far more so that the contribution is actually done. Many are closed minded
about the type of contribution. Some say
it must be done by making many Jewish children, while others say it must be
done by studying Torah incessantly, while others say that it must be done by
fighting for a Jewish homeland. I personally believe that any type of contribution
to the assurance of a Jewish future is the key to playing a role in Am Yisrael.
If we, all Jews, can remember that it can be achieved in limitless ways, it
will help unite us.