My Conversion Story Journal

October 30, 2024

When I started this journey, I did not know a lot of things. I never expected things to turn out the way that they are. Every day is planned around work and conversion classes. On days like today when my classes are cancelled, I get to do things that I haven't gotten a chance to do. I cleaned the kitchen, took out the garbage, mopped the floor, cleaned the shower, folded that overflowing basket of laundry (Finally!!!), and took a call from a friend who is converting to answer questions about a kosher kitchen, finished my prayer and thankfulness vision board, studied Hebrew, and danced around my house singing.

Living in the community is a lot different than living where I was living before. I have access to a lot of kosher food, which makes me very happy. I get to attend all of the holiday services, and I love the prayers for the holidays. They are beautiful. I get to study with the Rabbis in person instead of remotely. That is nice, because I can ask questions. I get to attend other events. I get to hang out with my friends in the community. Also, after a day of shopping (with a friend), I get to go to a kosher restaurant and eat delicious food. I get to walk to shul every Shabbat and holiday. Most importantly, I get to learn every day.

I'm learning where to shop for food I like to cook and clothes that I can afford. I'm getting my prescriptions filled, and taking my car in to get it fixed. I'm learning when the traffic is bad and when it is closer to what I am used to. I'm learning what I need to buy for my kitchen for it to run a little smoother.

I'm staring to settle in and get back to some of the routines that I had gotten down before moving to the community. As I focus on adding a new observance, it takes a bit to adjust and makes me miss some things that I had already done. I'm back to saying the Modeh Ani when I wake, then wash my hands before touching my face or eyes (took a lot of concentration to get that one down), saying my morning blessings and prayers, and saying the bruchas before and after I eat throughout the day.

I like living here in the community and I like the ability to be more observant.

Thank you Hashem for leading me here and sustaining me here. I love you.