To A New Year

This year has seen some personal and career highs, as well as some rock bottom moments.

Partcipating in the JewV’Nation Fellowship has not only given me an extended family, but has also given me permission to take up my rightful space in the Jewish community. I feel more confident in my place in the Jewish community (well, most of the time) and I’m not afraid to call out racism when I see it.

I was promoted to Director of Libraries and Archives. I finally feel like I’m where I’m supposed to be. I have a job I love and knowing that senior leadership believes in me and trusts me with Temple’s history is humbling, as well as a great boost to my confidence.

My mom and I finally acknowledged, out loud, that as she is getting older, I’m moving into a caretaker role. It hasn’t been easy. I’m terrified and my mom is frustrated that her independence seems to be diminishing, but I know we’ll make it through.

I had a few mental health crises this year, but I have a great support system with my therapist and psychiatrist. I have come a long way in the 16 years since my lost hospitalization and I am grateful for that.

Friendships have never been easy for me and this year I saw the very ugly sides of people I respected. Still, I also know that I have close friends that I trust and who have shown me that they will always be here to support me.

Here’s to 2019!