They were success stories at work – but lonely seekers within
New Yawker, that’s what I was. Free, opportunistic, extroverted, fun. Bring on Times Square, bowling, biking, dancing on the Hudson…
I grew up Modern Orthodox; I went to HAFTR, where I got a solid Jewish education, but come weekends I ran around in short sleeves and pants.
Inside I was deeply inspired, spiritual and idealistic, and I took to seminary in Israel like a fish to water. In Baer Miriam in Har Nof I met all sorts of girls from a range of backgrounds. There was genuine warmth in Baer Miriam — not just the Jerusalem sun, but Jerusalem hearts — the leaders, the teachers, the madrichot. It was an immersive experience, to get to know Eretz Yisrael and its people, to feel the achdus, the greatness, and our responsibility for one another. I was just 19 — what did I know about life-plans and decisions — but that year, seeds were planted.
And there was Penny, my roommate from London. Both of us are the only girls in our family, and we became sisters. Soul sisters.
Create a free account to keep reading.
