All for a Penny

You know...sometimes just because I pick up a penny on the street, crossing 4 lanes of traffic and two honking T subways to do so, it doesn't mean I'm Jewish.

But I admit, I am Jewish. My friends always make jokes about shekels (Israeli currency) and make remarks about my frugality. I think I work it. Sorry not sorry that I pick up coins on the street and weeks later find it in my pocket just in time to give it to a homeless person. It's all about giving my friends.


I think being Jewish in Boston has really changed my view of Judaism. At home, in the Jewish suburbia of Illinois, everyone is similar in their ways. You go to Sunday school and Hebrew school for years, have your bar/bat mitzvah and then some people quit and others continue going. I continued, which I'm happy about. But here, holy moses, you cannot even define the types of Judaism here.

Let me list the types I have come across:
1. The rabbi who went with my trip to Birthright. He is a phenomenal person, very spiritual. However, he was born Christian. Isn't that an interesting tidbit?

2. The AEPi Boys who would never marry a goy. They go on jswipe dates and just want to bring that Jewish girl home to mom and bubbe.

3. The Jewish girls that are all over Hillel. I love their curly hair and Israeli jewelry. Peace love Birthright, amirite?

4. Those who will go to Hillel for free food. Can't say I haven't done this.

5. People who are just Jewish.

6. Those who are parked out at Schwarma places and let their friends know when there is a sale on bagels and lox at the local grocer.

Then there's me. I think Birthright made me more religious in the way that I want to learn more about the spirituality and life of Jews everywhere. I want to explore and meet my people. And my love for hummus and falafel was just increased exponentially, so there's that.


So where are all the stereotypes from the past? Big noses, rich folks, frugal people, nagging grandma. Well most of those exist here as well. Except grandma.  In fact, whenever someone says they're from Long Island, most people assume they're Jewish and wealthy. And usually they are. Is it right to make these stereotypes? I don't know. But I personally will laugh with my friends whenever we see a stray penny because they know, and I know, that I'm about to pounce.


Shalom bitches.

peace.love.meep
-amyjoy