Two years ago, my arrival in Kansas City was a whirlwind of anxiety and plans for how I’d bring Israel to life in this community. I was excited to teach, share stories and culture, build bridges and talk openly about the wonders and complexities of Israeli society.
“You look so American!” What an awkward welcome upon my return to Greece, my homeland. I was intensely attached to my birthplace and wanted to blend in and belong.
I had an out of body experience. My body was in Holon, Israel, with my husband, as my daughter and son-in-law were at a hospital where my daughter was in active labor. But my heart was with them.
I don’t know about you, but this summer was one of the fastest and most full summers I have ever experienced.
By the time you read this, you are likely finding whatever school supplies can be salvaged from last year. You’re plotting how to get your kid on a normal sleep schedule. You’re cleaning sunscreen out from the bottom of backpacks.
Friendships have gotten so expensive. From bachelorette parties to birthday gifts, monthly dinners to concert tickets, the costs add up.
When I was growing up, my mom used to tell me that her mother — my grandmother — would wake her up every morning with the same question: “What do you want for dinner?”
The Jewish Federation is committed to building a strong, joyful, and meaningful Jewish life — and we know that safety is essential for Jewish life to thrive in Kansas City.
It has been a crazy three days. It has been stressful and at times unreal.
Recently, my daughter made a friendship bracelet with her Jewish Girl Scout troop, complete with Star of David charms — very on brand.
