I felt that this was my one opportunity to introduce them to a bit of Judaism

When my cousin Shannon came for a visit to Jerusalem with her 18-year-old daughter Ally, they tapped me to show them around. I wouldn’t have minded, but in deference to the sunny weather, Ally’s clothing choices were making me blush.

Nevertheless, I decided to take them to the Kosel first: Of course I did. I’m not trained in kiruv, but a visit to the Kosel could only be positive, right?

Shannon and Ally wanted to know what, other than a wall, was there to see? I told them about the picturesque, ancient Old City of Jerusalem, but until we mentioned the Tunnel Tours, they seemed barely interested. Finally, Shannon came to see the Tunnels, and Ally slumped along because she had nothing better to do.

I love my cousins, and we have a great relationship. This is achieved by never discussing religion or politics. We were treading closer to the taboo subjects than I’d ever ventured, but I felt that this was my one opportunity to introduce them to a bit of Judaism.