I’m hoping that reading my story has encouraged you or opened your eyes to a reality you may have been previously unaware of

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or now, we’ve reached the end of this story, though I’m looking forward to letting you know when I get engaged and embark on my next chapter.

When the idea of sharing my story first came up, I was hesitant. I’m a private person by nature. And aside from the matter of my privacy, I wondered how my story would be received by you, the readers, and what impact, if any, it might have.

I decided to go for it.

First, I wanted to shine a light on an experience a lot of you haven’t experienced. Many frum girls aren’t familiar with this perspective, and I was glad to share it with you. I believe people should share their stories, as it enables others to become aware of what other people experience. When we gain a greater appreciation of others’ experiences, it helps us become more empathetic and understanding.

By sharing my experiences and perspective, perhaps there can be greater acceptance and understanding of geirim in our communities. Maybe it can become less foreign, less scary; more human.

The second reason I chose to tell my story was for those who went through, or are going through, similar experiences. Perhaps my story can help those girls feel seen and validated.

So whether you’re a convert yourself, your family is coming closer to Yiddishkeit, or you’ve been Jewish and frum your entire life, I’m hoping that reading my story has encouraged you or opened your eyes to a reality you may have been previously unaware of.