My Conversion Story Journal

March 11, 2025

This week is Purim. Purim comes from the book of Ester. I had my very first Purim last year in the community. I had stayed with a friend and was able to enjoy the full Purim experience (even receiving Purim gifts). This year, living in the community, is a bit different. I, again, will be getting the full Purim experience but with new joy. I have been able to hear all kinds of conversations building up to Purim, and even got to pick out costumes (instead of last minute) with a friend. I get to make my own gifts for friends and deliver them this year. My first time, ever. On Purim, you give money to the poor and at least two gifts of food to friends. Because this is my first Purim, I wanted to be able to give to a few friends (because I have them here to give to), so I got the things for the gift bags (I can't give home baked things yet). I didn't know how much it would cost (because this is my first time making the bags) but we are supposed to give more to charity than to friends, so I waited until I bought the things for friends so I could give more to charity than that amount. I love being here in the community. It is amazing to be with such wonderful people. It just makes me wonder all the more what it is like to be in Israel. I heard that everyone there is like this small community here. Some day.